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Table of Contents | Overview

Table of Contents Overview

Legislative Process

Legislative Priorities Education & Workforce

Energy & Critical Minerals

Environment & Public Health

Great Salt Lake

Health Care

Homelessness & Public Safety

Housing Affordability

Natural Resources & Growth

Tax & Regulatory Environment

Technology, Innovation & AI

Transportation & Infrastructure

2034 Olympic & Paralympic Winter Games

Policy Team

Committee Chairs

About the Utah Chamber The Utah Chamber is a statewide chamber of commerce, representing the diverse voices of the state’s 80,000-plus employers and employees. The Chamber unites the voices of Utah businesses, local chambers and industry associations to build a stronger business environment, increase healthy job creation and support prosperous communities across the state.

Utah Rising Policy Recommendation Utah Chamber 1

Utah Rising is a statewide, business-led plan spearheaded by the Utah Chamber and the Salt Lake Chamber to ensure a prosperous future for all Utahns. Successful implementation of the plan requires a strong partnership between the business community and the public sector to develop the workforce, support a competitive business environment, enhance livability, optimize natural resources and the environment and achieve signature projects. Throughout the Public Policy Guide, areas of unified support are designated with the and will be emphasized during the Legislative Session. To learn more about the initiative, visit utahrising.com.

We are consistently impressed by our state and its people. In 2025, Utah once again distinguished itself, maintaining record-low unemployment rates and a steady economy. Entrepreneurship and small businesses continue to thrive, and our culture of innovation is providing the right environment for growth.

Introduction

Fellow Utahns,

Sustaining this momentum requires a unified voice and focused action. The role of a chamber of commerce is to build a strong business environment, increase healthy job creation and support prosperous communities across the state. Last year, the Utah Chamber was created as a natural response to unify the diverse voices across our state and ensure all needs are represented and addressed. Collaboration with business leaders, elected officials and community partners allows us to prioritize the critical matters facing Utah and set the strategic course for the year ahead. In order to achieve these foundational goals and strengthen Utah’s competitive position, it’s crucial that we have sound policy and smart investment from our legislature. What we have learned over the last year has been instrumental in shaping our priorities for the 2026 Legislative Session. We need action, and we are here to help drive that change. We are particularly focused on the needed areas of housing, transportation, energy and education, among several others. We are prepared to advocate for policy change and continued investment in these crucial priorities. Our business leaders constantly look to the future, furthering initiatives like Utah Rising and preparing to host the 2034 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, where the intentional policy changes and sustained investments we champion now will create significant, generational opportunities for Utahns in every corner of our state. Your education on the topics outlined in this guide and your participation in your local chamber contribute directly to the prosperity of our state. Consider how each policy influences your business and community, and how you can help keep Utah the best place in the nation to live and work. We invite you to read through this and help us champion change.

Derek Miller

Jeremy Hafen

President & CEO

Board Chair

Utah Chamber

2026 Public Policy Guide

Sincerely,

Legislative Process

Legislative Process 1

Before the legislative session, the Utah Chamber engages in a comprehensive review of the business community’s needs and concerns. That review draws input from a member survey, as well as insights from industry experts and relevant committees.

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Identify Business Community’s Priorities

Evaluation and Selection Based on the input and feedback received, the Utah Chamber evaluates and prioritizes the key issues and legislative proposals that are of paramount importance to the business community. These issues are typically those that have a direct impact on the business community and broader business environment.

Inclusion in Public Policy Guide The Public Policy Guide serves as a comprehensive document outlining the Utah Chamber’s established positions on various legislative matters. Issues designated as “Priority Votes” are often already covered within the Public Policy Guide, but their inclusion as such highlights their exceptional significance.

By following this process, the Utah Chamber ensures that the business community’s most pressing concerns are effectively addressed during the legislative session and with a focused approach on a limited number of Priority Votes from the Public Policy Guide.

Limit the Number of Priorities To maintain focus and ensure the effectiveness of advocacy efforts, the Board of Directors typically limits the number of Priority Votes to a specific, manageable threshold, often set at 20 or fewer. This approach ensures that the Utah Chamber can allocate its resources, time and influence strategically on the most critical legislative initiatives.

Advocacy and Engagement With the Priority Votes selected, the Utah Chamber can then concentrate its advocacy efforts and resources on these top-priority issues. This includes engaging with legislators, policymakers and other stakeholders to promote and support these critical pieces of legislation.

Regular Monitoring and Updates Throughout the legislative session, the Utah Chamber closely monitors the progress of the Priority Votes and provides timely updates to its members and the business community. This monitoring process may involve lobbying, providing expert testimony and mobilizing support for or against specific bills.

Legislative Business Champions The Utah Legislature is pivotal in maintaining the state’s pro-business environment, and the Utah Chamber recognizes supportive legislators by naming them Legislative Business Champions annually. This designation is closely linked to the Priority Votes. Legislators who align their votes with the Chamber’s Priority Votes during bill passage and who demonstrate meaningful engagement with the Utah Chamber receive this prestigious Legislative Business Champion award.

We urge the Legislature to: • Prioritize Early Literacy

Invest in early literacy programs and evidence-based classroom interventions to ensure every Utah student achieves grade-level reading proficiency, laying the foundation for lifelong learning and workforce readiness.

• Advance First Credential Opportunities

Fund programs that enable high school students to earn an industry-recognized credential before graduation, connecting education directly to Utah’s workforce needs and creating earlier pathways to employment.

• Increase Post-Secondary Completion

Strengthen advising, financial aid and transfer supports to boost completion rates across Utah’s colleges and technical schools, while expanding partnerships with private-sector employers that provide tuition assistance, apprenticeships and on-the-job learning.

• Increase Access to Affordable Child Care

Continue to expand access to affordable, quality child care by offering tax incentives and grants for employers that provide on-site care or partner with licensed providers, while also addressing regulatory barriers that make it difficult for new licensed centers to open.

• Support Legal Immigration Pathways

Maintain Utah’s positive business and workforce environment by supporting policies that help legally authorized immigrants enter the labor force, streamline credential recognition and encourage long-term workforce participation to address critical labor shortages.

Utah Rising Policy Recommendation

2026 Public Policy Guide

Education and workforce development remain central to Utah’s long-term prosperity. A strong education system prepares individuals to contribute meaningfully to their communities, while a skilled workforce drives innovation, productivity and growth across every sector. Effective workforce development connects learning to jobs, helping employers fill critical roles while creating upward mobility for Utahns across regions and industries. Together, these priorities form the foundation of Utah’s economic resilience and quality of life. Continued collaboration among educators, employers and civic leaders ensures that Utah remains a place where talent is nurtured, opportunity is accessible and learning continues throughout life.

Education & Workforce

Energy & Critical Minerals

Energy & Critical Minerals Utah plays a pivotal role in the nation’s energy and critical minerals landscape by balancing economic opportunity with environmental responsibility. As demand grows for reliable and affordable power, Utah’s diverse energy mix and innovative industries position the state to lead in responsible development and production. Strategic policies that support efficiency and innovation across traditional and emerging energy sectors will strengthen Utah’s energy security and economic competitiveness. Expanding critical minerals development and integrating new technologies with proven resources will help ensure a stable transition to a more sustainable energy future.

We urge the Legislature to: • Support a Diversified Energy Portfolio Encourage continued investment across all energy sources to ensure reliable, affordable power for Utah’s homes, businesses and industries while prioritizing responsible resource management.

• Advance Nuclear and Geothermal Innovation

Support public–private partnerships and permitting reforms that accelerate nextgeneration nuclear and geothermal projects, expanding Utah’s role as a hub for clean and firm energy production.

• Protect Regulatory Stability for Utilities

Preserve a predictable and transparent regulatory environment by maintaining mechanisms that ensure fair cost recovery and system reliability for utilities and consumers.

• Promote Responsible Critical Minerals Development

Provide incentives and regulatory clarity for environmentally responsible extraction and processing of critical minerals, which are vital to national defense, high-tech manufacturing and the clean energy transition.

• Ensure Grid Reliability and Affordability Utah Chamber 5

Invest in grid modernization, transmission upgrades and energy storage to meet growing demand while keeping costs manageable for consumers and businesses.

Utah Rising Policy Recommendation

Environment & Public Health

The intersection of natural resources and public health impacts Utah’s competitiveness for talent retention, tourism and investment. Protecting public health and preserving the landscapes that define Utah’s identity are essential to sustaining the state’s prosperity.

We urge the Legislature to: • Reduce Catastrophic Wildfire Impacts

Invest in public education, community preparedness, proactive forest management and emergency response strategies that minimize wildfire impacts.

• Advance Ozone Research and Mitigation

Support research that identifies evidence-based policy tools for reducing local ozone emissions and improving air quality compliance. Reduce risk exposure through infrastructure investments, including aging dam repairs, water infrastructure and seismic resilience, to maintain water storage capacity and prevent loss of life, property damage and economic harm from accidents.

2026 Public Policy Guide

• Strengthen Infrastructure Resilience

Great Salt Lake

Great Salt Lake Long-term management of the Great Salt Lake remains one of Utah’s defining economic and environmental challenges. In September 2025, Governor Spencer J. Cox joined state, federal and business leaders in signing the Great Salt Lake 2034 Charter — a landmark agreement that includes private sector financial commitments to restore and protect the Lake. Continued investment and cross-sector collaboration will be essential to maintaining momentum and safeguarding the Lake’s critical role in Utah’s economy, air quality and global ecosystems for generations to come.

We urge the Legislature to: • Advance the Great Salt Lake Strategic Plan Continue investing in research, water metering, conservation and wetland restoration to strengthen the Lake’s long-term economic and ecological resilience.

• Strengthen Intergovernmental and Private Sector Collaboration

Promote coordinated efforts among federal, state and local agencies, along with private and philanthropic partners, to support evidence-based management and clear accountability for the Lake’s long-term health.

• Stabilize Great Salt Lake Water Levels Utah Chamber 7

Support water conservation incentives, agricultural efficiency programs and restoration projects that increase inflows and sustain the Lake as a critical environmental and economic resource.

Rising health care costs continue to strain Utah employers and employees alike, making affordability one of the state’s most pressing economic challenges. As benefit costs grow faster than wages, many companies struggle to maintain coverage while competing for talent in a tight labor market. At the same time, potential changes to federal health programs could shift more responsibility to states and employers, heightening the need for state-level solutions that preserve access and affordability. Ensuring that Utah’s health care system remains affordable, transparent and competitive is critical to sustaining a healthy workforce and a strong economy. Thoughtful collaboration between policymakers and the private sector can help stabilize costs, improve outcomes and keep health care within reach for Utah families and businesses.

Health Care

We urge the Legislature to: Reduce administrative complexity and streamline compliance requirements to lower costs for providers and employers, allowing more resources to be directed toward patient care and workforce support.

• Reduce Barriers and Lower Costs

Expand access to primary care by strengthening training pathways, improving service availability and offering flexible contracting options, helping lower costs for employers while maintaining strong safety standards.

Utah Rising Policy Recommendation

• Advance Mental and Behavioral Health Priorities

Strengthen the state’s mental and behavioral health systems by expanding crisis response teams, improving patient transport between care settings and supporting public awareness and suicide prevention initiatives across Utah communities.

• Strengthen the Health Care Workforce Pipeline

Increase training sites and supervised clinical rotations through stronger partnerships among health care providers, hospitals, clinics and education providers and expand funding for residency and advanced training positions to ensure Utah can train and retain the health professionals its growing population requires.

2026 Public Policy Guide

• Streamline Health Care Regulations

Homelessness & Public Safety

Homelessness & Public Safety Homelessness remains one of Utah’s most visible and complex challenges, straining public safety systems and community resources. Despite new investments and expanded shelter capacity, many communities continue to face growing unsheltered populations and increased public health and safety concerns. Addressing this crisis requires more than short-term fixes; it demands alignment between state and local governments, business leaders and service providers to ensure accountability and results. A balanced approach that combines enforcement with access to treatment, supportive housing and workforce reentry programs can help individuals regain stability while restoring safety and community confidence.

We urge the Legislature to: • Expand Behavioral Health and Recovery Services

Increase funding for mental health and addiction treatment programs to address root causes of homelessness and strengthen community well-being.

• Invest in Workforce Reentry and Training Programs

Support job training, placement and transitional employment initiatives that help individuals experiencing homelessness rejoin the workforce and achieve financial independence.

• Enhance State Support for Homeless Services

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Evaluate and consider state funding for evidence-based homeless services and partnerships that demonstrate measurable outcomes in housing stability and employment.

Utah Rising Policy Recommendation

We urge the Legislature to: • Support Infrastructure for Housing Development Continue investing in essential infrastructure, such as roads, water and utilities, to unlock entitled land and accelerate new housing construction.

• Accelerate Land Use Processes Streamline land use and permit approvals to lower costs, reduce delays and bring new housing to market more quickly.

• Create a Statewide Community Land Trust

Establish a statewide land trust using donated public and private property to create permanently affordable housing through long-term ground leases.

• Expand Starter Homeownership Opportunities

Encourage development of smaller, attainable homes by updating zoning, supporting innovative financing and promoting projects near employment centers.

Utah Rising Policy Recommendation

2026 Public Policy Guide

Housing affordability remains one of Utah’s most significant barriers to workforce stability and economic growth. Rapid price increases, limited supply and high interest rates continue to make it difficult for workers — especially first-time buyers and young professionals — to live near their jobs. As more employees are priced out of local markets, commute times lengthen, productivity declines and businesses face growing challenges in recruitment and retention. The shortage of attainable housing also limits mobility for essential workers and recent graduates, weakening Utah’s longterm competitiveness. Addressing this crisis will require coordinated efforts to expand housing supply, align infrastructure investment with growth and support policies that keep Utah communities livable, connected and economically strong.

Housing Affordability

Natural Resources & Growth

Natural Resources & Growth Utah’s natural resources – its land, water and air – remain central to the state’s economy, quality of life and long-term growth. From agriculture and energy to recreation and tourism, nearly every industry depends on the health and availability of these resources. Persistent challenges such as declining water availability, poor air quality and loss of open space continue to threaten both environmental and economic stability. As population growth and climate variability place new pressures on these systems, Utah must balance growth with responsible stewardship.

We urge the Legislature to: • Focus on Long-Term Water Availability

Support municipal, industrial, agricultural and residential users, as well as state water managers, in managing limited water resources more efficiently through education, incentives and technology-driven solutions.

• Align Conservation with Growth Objectives

Connect water conservation and air quality objectives with Utah’s economic development and housing goals through investments in collaboration and shared outcomes.

• Support Environmental Input on Statewide Projects Utah Chamber 11

Ensure timely, constructive environmental review through the Department of Environmental Quality and Department of Natural Resources to help Utah communities achieve their economic and environmental goals.

We urge the Legislature to: • Maintain a Competitive Tax Climate

Preserve Utah’s pro-growth tax structure by ensuring stability and predictability for businesses of all sizes, while evaluating targeted adjustments that strengthen investment and job creation.

Tax & Regulatory Environment

• Simplify Regulatory Processes

• Protect Property Tax Fairness

Monitor shifts in property tax policy to prevent disproportionate increases on commercial properties, ensuring businesses continue to invest, expand and contribute to local economies without bearing an inequitable share of the tax burden.

• Align with Federal Pro-Growth Reforms

Coordinate state tax and regulatory provisions with federal reforms to promote consistency, encourage investment and maintain Utah’s standing as a top state for business.

• Strengthen Supply Chain Resilience Expand manufacturing incentives for companies that onshore or grow Utah-based production to improve stability and support small business growth.

Utah Rising Policy Recommendation

2026 Public Policy Guide

Utah’s long-standing reputation as a top state for business depends on maintaining a predictable, competitive tax and regulatory environment. As costs rise and economic uncertainty grows nationwide, Utah’s ability to attract investment and support entrepreneurship will hinge on keeping regulations efficient and taxes stable. Reducing compliance burdens, particularly for small and mid-sized businesses, allows employers to focus on growth, innovation and job creation. Continued vigilance against unnecessary regulation, coupled with clear and consistent tax policy, will help preserve Utah’s business advantage and ensure a strong foundation for future economic resilience.

Streamline permitting and compliance requirements to reduce administrative burdens on employers, particularly small and mid-sized businesses, enabling them to operate efficiently and focus on innovation and expansion.

Technology, Innovation & AI

Technology, Innovation & AI Utah’s leadership in technology and innovation continues to drive statewide economic growth and competitiveness. As artificial intelligence reshapes industries from health care to finance to manufacturing, Utah’s businesses and universities are playing a key role in applying these tools responsibly and productively. The state’s strong talent base, entrepreneurial culture and collaborative public–private partnerships have helped attract investment and advance research that turns new technologies into real economic value. Continued focus on responsible AI adoption, data security and workforce readiness will be essential to ensuring that innovation remains an asset for Utah’s long-term prosperity.

We urge the Legislature to: • Promote Responsible AI Adoption and Readiness

Support initiatives that help businesses adopt AI responsibly by expanding access to technical assistance, employer training resources and tools that ensure AI use enhances productivity and strengthens operational integrity.

• Build a Future-Ready Tech Workforce

Invest in coordinated programs that help businesses train and upskill their employees, expand hands-on learning opportunities with K-12 schools and higher education institutions and support applied research that strengthens Utah’s long-term competitiveness in AI and emerging technologies.

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• Advance Cybersecurity and Data Privacy Capacity

Support programs that help businesses enhance their cyber defenses and protect critical data, bolstering security across Utah’s economy.

Infrastructure remains the foundation of Utah’s economic strength, supporting the efficient movement of people, goods and services across a rapidly growing state. Continued investment in transportation, water, energy and digital networks is essential to sustaining economic momentum and maintaining Utah’s quality of life. When infrastructure challenges exist, Utahns experience longer commutes, increased congestion and reduced access to housing and jobs. Strategic collaboration among federal and state leaders, local governments and the business community will be key to building the resilient, connected systems Utah needs.

• Strengthen Private Sector Partnership Opportunities

Encourage collaboration with privatesector partners to finance, design and deliver transportation and infrastructure projects efficiently and cost-effectively.

• Enhance Public Transit Access

Invest in modern, reliable public transportation, particularly in highgrowth areas, to improve access to key employment centers and reduce congestion with a focus on first- and last-mile connectivity for commuters and businesses.

• Continue Infrastructure Investment

Support funding priorities for critical infrastructure, including roads, bridges, freight corridors, multimodal transportation and digital networks, to support Utah’s expanding economy and population growth.

• Advance Broadband Expansion

Ensure broadband investments are deployed efficiently to extend high-speed internet to unserved and underserved areas, supporting education, business growth and rural development.

• Support Regular Reviews of State Laws for Advanced Air Mobility

Encourage a comprehensive review of existing transportation, zoning and airspace regulations to identify updates that would accelerate Advanced Air Mobility development, streamline vertiport permitting and ensure Utah’s legal framework supports safe, efficient integration of emerging air technologies.

Utah Rising Policy Recommendation

2026 Public Policy Guide

We urge the Legislature to:

Transportation & Infrastructure

2034 Olympic & Paralympic Winter Games

2034 Olympic & Paralympic Winter Games With the 2034 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games now less than a decade away, Utah has entered a critical planning phase to ensure the state is ready to welcome the world once again. The Winter Games present an unparalleled opportunity to showcase Utah’s natural beauty, hospitality and business climate, but also a responsibility to prepare our air, land and water for global attention. The condition of Utah’s environment, infrastructure and communities will reflect our long-term priorities as much as our readiness to host. Coordinated planning and investment today will help ensure the Winter Games strengthen Utah’s economy, support sustainable growth and leave a legacy that benefits residents and businesses for years to come.

We urge the Legislature to: • Solidify Utah’s Competitiveness for Future Winter Sports

Invest in infrastructure, venues and lake-effect snow through accelerated stewardship of the Great Salt Lake to maintain Utah’s preeminence as a winter sports destination.

• Prepare Utah to Shine in the 2034 Winter Games

Invest in identifying Utah’s own goals for the Winter Games, collaborative plans to achieve them and media pathways to reinforce Utah’s quality of life and economic attractiveness during the Winter Games and beyond.

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Policy Team

Mary Catherine Perry Executive Vice President, Public Policy & Government Affairs Utah Chamber

Ashlin Holbrook Public Policy Coordinator

2026 Public Policy Guide

Utah Chamber

Public Policy Committees

Public Policy Committees Special Thanks to Our Chairs Utah Chamber Chamber Coalition Jamie Andrus

Ally Isom

President & CEO

Chief Marketing & External Affairs Officer

Cache Valley Chamber of Commerce

Curtis Blair President & CEO Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce

Industry Council Howard Headlee President & CEO Utah Bankers Association

Aaron Starks President & CEO 47G - Utah Aerospace & Defense

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Public Policy

Clyde Companies, Inc.

Troy Keller Partner Dorsey & Whitney LLP

Salt Lake Chamber • Nathan Anderson, Senior Director, Public Affairs, Union Pacific • Erin Barry, Vice President, Government Affairs, Merit Medical Systems • Chris Gamvroulas, President, Ivory Development • Cloe Nixon, Government Affairs Manager, Dorsey & Whitney LLP Financial & Professional Services • Robert Spendlove, Senior Economist, Zions Bank • Tom Jacobson, President & CEO, Thomas N. Jacobson Law Health Care & Life Sciences • Matt Anderson, Community Relationships Manager, Intermountain Health • Kim Frost, Director, Government Relations and Public Affairs, Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Utah Housing & Homelessness • Nate Boyer, President, The Boyer Company

Natural Resources Business Council • Stephanie Frohman, Associate Director, Janet Quinney Lawson Institute for Land, Water and Air at Utah State University • Michael Squires, Government Affairs Director, Utah Associated Municipal Power Systems (UAMPS) Technology, Innovation & AI • Chris Bleak, Partner, RRJ Consulting • Rebecca Butler, Senior Regional Policy Manager, Amazon Transportation & Infrastructure • Nathan McDonald, Director, Government & Community Relations, Clyde Companies, Inc. • Jen Somers, Vice President, State Government Affairs - Utah & New Mexico, Comcast Business Workforce & Education • Mark Gaspers, Director, Government Operations, The Boeing Company • Katie Mazzie, Associate Commissioner of Strategic Initiatives, Community & Government Relations, Utah System of Higher Education

2026 Public Policy Guide

Capitol Club

201 S. Main Street, Suite 2300 Salt Lake City, UT 84111 801.364.3631 | utchamber.com