2021 Legislative Priorities Guide

2021 LEGISLATIVE PRIOR ITIES As Utah’s business leader, we stand as the voice of business, we support our members’ success and we champion community prosperity.

S A LT L A K E CHA M B E R 2 0 2 1 P U B L I C P O L I C Y G U I D E

“Utah has long been recognized as a premier business destination. Thanks to the hard work of all Utahns, we have maintained this status throughout the challenges of 2020. As difficult as this year has been, we have learned crucial lessons that will make us better. I am confident that we will emerge from this pandemic stronger, smarter, and more unified than ever. In our policy decisions we must think big, be bold, and continue to enhance Utah’s position on the world’s stage. I am excited to work with Utah’s incredible business and community leaders to make Utah not just a great place to do business, but a united community that provides opportunities for all!”

-Governor Spencer J. Cox

Dear Fellow Utahns, At this unique moment in history, state, community, and business leaders are facing challenges they have not been confronted with before. As we look toward 2021, we must work together to solve our immediate issues and emerge from this crisis stronger than before, but we must also keep our eye on our long-term goals to ensure that Utah maintains its increasingly preeminent position on the world’s economic stage.

While the challenges of 2020 have stretched and tested us all, they have also highlighted why Utah is unique and successful—we work together. In this year of crisis, rather than crack and separate under the extreme pressures, we bonded together into a more cohesive unit.

As Utah’s voice of business, we want to express our sincere gratitude to our elected officials—Governor Herbert and his Administration, President Adams, Speaker Wilson, and Utah’s congressional delegation have shown real leadership to lead Utah through this crisis. When Utah needed its leaders each of them was there—they listened to Utah citizens and business leaders, they collaborated and they provided briefings and guidance. We appreciate the way they have worked with, supported, and listened to our members.

The importance of Utah’s unique ability to partner and collaborate has been critical to Utah’s ability to endure these challenges as well as we have. We are grateful to our partners across the state from industry associations, local chambers, government agencies, and others. The generosity of each of these groups to set aside personal interests and share resources and expertise is remarkable.

As we continue to make our way through these challenges and eventually emerge, we look forward to continuing this partnership. Utah’s foundation is a strong one. While we focus on efforts for recovery, we don’t want to lose sight of the underlying and long-term priorities that have laid that foundation. These 2021 legislative priorities focus on both those immediate needs and our long-term and continuing goals.

We are proud to be on “Team Utah” with each of you. And we look forward to continuing to work together with you.

Sincerely,

Derek Miller President & CEO

Craig Wagstaff 2020-2021 Board Chair

TA B L E OF C ON T E N T S BUSINESS CLIMATE

................................. 03

LABOR & EMPLOYMENT

................................. 07

EDUCATION

................................. 09

HOU SI N G A F F O R DA B I L I T Y

................................. 11

TRANSPORTATION

................................. 15

ENVIRONMENT & NATURAL RESOURCES

................................. 17

HEALTH CARE

................................. 21

COMMUNITY

................................. 23

EQUALITY & INCLUSION IN OPPORTUNITY

................................. 25

UTAH CHAMBER POLICY COALITION

................................. 27

UTAH COMMUNITY BUILDERS

................................. 28

LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES

................................. 29

CHAMBER SURVEY RESULTS HIGHLIGHTS

................................. 32

B U S I N E S S C L I M AT E

Utah entered 2020 as one of the nation’s most diverse and high-performing economies. Despite the unprecedented challenges of 2020, Utah has maintained this position. Utah’s business community has adapted and innovated in order to respond to the new dynamics and challenges that have accompanied the pandemic. Thanks, in large part, to Utah’s strong business climate and business friendly policies, the state has succeeded in minimizing much of the harm that was expected.

While business friendly laws and regulations have contributed to Utah’s resiliency, the leadership shown by Utah business leaders from the beginning of the pandemic are at the heart of Utah’s success. The success of Utah’s business environment is, to a great degree, attributable to savvy and altruistic leadership demonstrated by Utah’s business leaders—their recognition that to succeed we must do it together resulted in a willingness to share expertise and resources that brought innovation and success, epitomizing the “Utah Way.”

“

2020 UNEMPLOYMENT RATE COMPARISONS 16% 14% 12% 10% U.S. 2020

8% 6%

The most dynamic recoveries may well bypass traditional powerhouses and take place instead in areas that were poised to lead the way in 2020 before everything changed.

—Adams Kamins, Senior Regional Economist, Moody’s Analytics

Utah 2020

“

4%

Salt Lake City and Provo are amongst the metro areas best positioned to recover economically from the pandemic.

Utah 2019

2% 0% Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sept

Oct

Source: Utah Department of Workforce Services 3

S ALT L AK E C HAM BE R

Despite the challenges of 2020, Utahns remained strong, resilient, and united—with remarkable results.

PPP

Utah ranked first in the country in overall Paycheck Protection Program loan amounts received as a percentage of eligible payroll—showing that through our cooperation, we were able to secure much needed funds for businesses across the state.

Furniture and Home Furnishings

Personal Care

Restaurants & Bars

Clothing

Arts, Entertainment, Recreation

Accommodations

Non-Store Retailers

Home Improvement, Garden, Building Materials

Food and Beverage Stores

General Merchandise

Motor Vehicles

Sporting Goods, Hobby, Music, Books

40%

Electronics, Appliances

YEAR-OVER CHANGE IN TAXABLE SALES BY INDUSTRY

20% 0% -20% -40% -60% -80%

March July

April August

May September

June

Source: Utah Governor’s Office of Management and Budget 2021 L E G I SL AT I V E P R IO R I T I E S

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B U S I N E S S C L I M AT E

ROAD TO RECOVERY

The Road to Recovery Dashboard tracks Utah’s path to a full and complete economic recovery from the COVID-19 recession.

The Dashboard, which is updated monthly, provides essential insights, tracks timely and leading measures, and shares salient indicators since the start of the pandemic.

UTAH CONTINUED WEEKLY UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFIT CLAIMS

UTAH UNEMPLOYMENT RATES BY COUNTY

100,000

2.8% 3.0%

CACHE

3.7%

BOX ELDER

RICH

4.7%

WEBER

80,000

3.1% 3.9% MORGAN DAVIS

4.8%

TOOLE

3.6%

6.0%

WASATCH

UTAH

60,000

3.1%

DAGGETT

9.2%

DUCHESNE

10.7%

UINTAH

5.4%

JUAB

CARBON

4.0%

3.2%

40,000

4.6%

6.5%

SUMMIT

5.2%

SALT LAKE

SANPETE

MILLARD

4.3%

4.8%

EMERY

9.6%

GRAND

SEVIER

4.0%

BEAVER

20,000

5.4%

7.7%

PIUTE

4.3%

WAYNE

10.8%

IRON

GARFIELD

11.3%

SAN JUAN

5.2%

0

5.5% KANE

3/28/2020 4/11/2020 4/25/2020 5/9/2020 5/23/2020 6/6/2020 6/20/2020 7/4/2020 7/18/2020 8/1/2020 8/15/2020 8/29/2020 9/12/2020 9/26/2020 10/10/2020 10/24/2020 11/7/2020

WASHINGTON

Source: Utah Department of Workforce Services, November 2020

5

Source: Utah Department of Workforce Services, November 2020

S ALT L AK E C HAM BE R

CHAMBER BUSINESS PERSPECTIVE

80%

ranked vaccine availability for the general workforce as one of their top three policy priorities

57%

ranked access to testing for employees as one of their top three policy priorities

Source: Salt Lake Chamber Member Survey Results

42%

ranked grants and/or funding support for businesses as one of their top three policy priorities

2021 LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES We support reasonable regulations and legislative efforts that foster business success and facilitate economic growth across diverse industries.

SHORT-TERM

LONG-TERM

We strongly support maintaining a stable and predictable regulatory business environment and tax structure that will better allow businesses to focus on short-term recovery from the current economic conditions.

We support rural economic development incentives that improve effectiveness of existing programs and reduce potential duplications.

RECOVERY PRIORITIES

GROWTH PRIORITIES

We support a pandemic response strategy that is based upon public health guidelines and applies those guidelines strategically to protect economic interests and safe business environments.

We support targeted incentives and support for industries and businesses important to our community and most seriously impacted by the pandemic.

We support an aggressive public health response to COVID-19 through wearing masks, surveillance testing, contact tracing, and efficient vaccine distribution in order to protect public health and insulate Utah’s business operations and economic activity.

We support legislation that protects businesses that adhere to cybersecurity best practices.

We support policies that facilitate statewide broadband access and greater digital equity for all Utahns through partnerships and coordination with industry, that give control to families to choose the internet access services best for them and without increasing existing rates for Utahns.

We support federal data security policies that provide for consumer transparency, access and deletion of information that minimize costs to businesses, and are uniform across all states.

Utah Chamber Policy Coalition Priority 2021 L E G I SL AT I V E P R IO R I T I E S

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L ABOR & EMPLOYMENT

Even while recovering from a pandemic-induced national recession, Utah’s economy is among the best in the nation.

Unemployment rates and job growth rates for 2020 indicate that Utah’s job market is stronger than most other states and poised to recover well from the economic downturn brought about by COVID-19.

Although Utah’s unemployment rate is higher than it was at the beginning of 2020, the specific challenges brought by labor shortages have remained the same and in many sectors have only grown more significant. The need to align the skills of Utah’s students and workforce with those needed growing industries has only increased and become more acute as a result of the pandemic.

-0.2% Total

-12.6%

4.5% Natural Resources & Mining

Construction

2.7% Manufacturing

3.6% Trade, Transportation, Utilities

-5.4% Information

-1.0% Professional & Business Services

Source: Department of Workforce Services, November 2020

Financial Activites

-0.8% Education & Health Services

Leisure & Hospitality

Other Services

Government

0.7%

-12.6%

5%

4.4%

UTAH JOB CHANGE BY INDUSTRY

Short-term economic recovery in the state demands efforts to support struggling industries and spur economic growth.

It also requires targeted realignment, through coordination with higher education, of those employees who have been displaced to ensure that the needed workforce for those industries remains strong and continues to grow.

Support of our long-term growth requires that we continue to emphasize policies that address the workforce shortage in key industries, provide housing and transportation options for our growing workforce, and foster flexibility for employers and employees in child care and family leave policies.

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S ALT L AK E C HAM BE R

CHAMBER BUSINESS PERSPECTIVE

SHORT-TERM

77%

support tax incentives for employee mental health resources

RECOVERY PRIORITIES We support targeted workforce development investments including retraining or upskilling pandemic affected workers and adult students to meet increasing workforce demands in economic sectors with identified and growing shortages.

Source: Salt Lake Chamber Member Survey Results

LONG-TERM

GROWTH PRIORITIES We support workforce development partnerships between employers and our K-12 and higher education system, specifically programs targeted to meet identified workforce shortages.

We support employer-led policies to remove discriminatory hiring and employment practices and create greater equity in hiring and advancement.

We support data-driven and employer-led policies that close the gender wage gap.

We support ongoing funding for the Build to Success program which helps high-school students find opportunities in the construction and building field.

We support immigration laws that comply with the principles of the Utah Compact and promote the education, availability, and expertise of our workforce.

We support policies that encourage best practices for addressing mental health issues and suicide prevention in the workforce.

We support family and personal leave policies that provide employers and employees with flexibility in addressing the needs of family and life outside of the workplace.

We support policies that help to address the costs, access, and quality of child care options for Utah’s working families.

Utah Chamber Policy Coalition Priority 2021 L E G I SL AT I V E P R IO R I T I E S

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E D U C AT I O N

Utah’s business community has always recognized the need for quality education to build a talented workforce and support a strong economy for the state’s future, and in 2021, we stand behind the education community more than ever.

2020 put a spotlight on and exasperated many of the challenges facing our education system. The need to shift quickly to online learning strained the resources of teachers, parents, and employers and highlighted the inequities in digital device access, availability and access to broadband, and educational mentorship. The important role our educational system plays as an integral part of our social network and safety net, food resource, and child care provider system became clear quickly.

AMENDMENT G The passage of Utah Constitutional Amendment G represents a legislative commitment to ensure that education funding is prioritized and increased—an important step toward ensuring both high-quality teachers and the resources necessary to help students achieve greater outcomes. As education continues to build the foundation for our future, Utah must be dedicated to securing the resources needed to support our teachers and students for even greater success.

1IN7

UTAH HOUSEHOLDS DO NOT HAVE AN INTERNET CONNECTION

Those without the Internet include the state’s most vulnerable. They also include low-income working parents who have fewer telecommuting options, and their children, who may not have adequate access to home Internet or devices to participate in online learning platforms.

Source: “Vikram Ravi: Coronavirus exposes Utah’s digital divide,” Salt Lake Tribune, 21 March 2020

2019 NEW JOBS BY INDUSTRY Four of Utah’s five most common post-secondary education programs align directly with workforce needs: health professions, business management, computer and information sciences, and education. This group made up 38 percent of the graduates for the 2018-2019 academic year.

4.5% 2.7% 3.6%

Construction Manufacturing Trade/Transportation/Utilities

4.4% 5.0%

Financial Activities Other Services

Source: “Postsecondary Education Propels Utah’s Economy Forward,” Utah System of Higher Education, February 2020 9

S ALT L AK E C HAM BE R

CHAMBER BUSINESS PERSPECTIVE

81%

of our business community believes we should increase education funding

“

Utah students aren’t choosing to become teachers. In 2017, only 34 percent of our new teachers came from Utah’s academic teacher prep programs, compared to 58 percent in 2007. Utah’s average teacher salaries and per-pupil spending are significantly less than the U.S. average, while our class sizes are much bigger.

—Envision Utah, The Future of Education in Utah, 2020

“

Source: Salt Lake Chamber Member Survey Results

2021 LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES We support improving the K-12 education of Utah students by recruiting and retaining qualified educators.

We support efforts to ensure students across the state have equitable access to educational opportunities in public and post-secondary education.

We support legislative efforts to ensure stability in education funding that take into account the increasing number of students and attendant costs.

We support additional resources for expanding access to all-day kindergarten and professional learning for interventions for our early learning educators.

We support legislative efforts that contribute to a consistent state-wide education plan.

We support programs and assessments that improve early learning in literacy and mathematics.

We support improving access to STEM education.

We support funding to provide high-quality computer science education for every student.

We support aligning post-secondary education pathways for Utah students across the system to address identified workforce gaps.

We support initiatives that will bring about greater digital equity for Utah students across the state.

We support ongoing investment for a state-wide college access advisor program and assessment resources to help increase the number of high school graduates enrolling in post-secondary education programs.

Utah Chamber Policy Coalition Priority 2021 L E G I SL AT I V E P R IO R I T I E S

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HOU SI NG A F F OR DA B I L I T Y

“

The housing gap is—at its heart—an economic issue. Our economy requires a productive workforce, and our workforce needs stable housing to be productive. More housing options will result in a more prosperous state.

—Terry Buckner, Co-Chair, Housing GAP Coalition

“

Utah’s historic economic strength and growth comes with challenges—one of the most significant is our housing shortage and issues of housing affordability. Since 2010, the number of Utah families and individuals needing housing has steadily increased, far outpacing supply. As a result, Utah currently has a 53,000 unit housing shortage.

The issues of availability and cost have only worsened through the challenges of 2020. Though Utah made some progress in the past two years, the progress has not kept pace. In order to close this gap, Utah will need to add an average of 27,000 housing each year for the five years.

In May of 2018, the Salt Lake Chamber convened the Housing GAP Coalition to address the high priority the business community places on housing. The Coalition works closely with state and local governments to raise public awareness, to implement best practices, and to create policies that will make space for smart growth.

WASATCH FRONT RENT PRICES CONTINUE TO INCREASE 5-7% ANNUALLY

$754 IN 2011 11

THE AVERAGE RENTAL RATE IN SALT LAKE COUNTY

$1182 IN 2020

S ALT L AK E C HAM BE R

“

The pandemic has emphasized the essential role that stable, affordable housing plays in the quality of life of all Utahns. We must make providing additional housing options for Utahns of every income level, stage of life, and household type a higher priority to keep Utah on top.

—Thomas Wright, Co-Chair, Housing GAP Coalition

“

AFFORDABILITY CHALLENGES

In the first quarter of 2020, year-over median sale prices for a home in the Salt Lake Metropolitan Area increased by 12.3%. Such increases, combined with more restrictive mortgage financing at lower credit scores, means that the affordability and attainability of housing will only continue to worsen. While higher housing prices impact everyone, low income households are disproportionately affected. Closing the gap and avoiding further affordability issues will require stakeholders, policy makers, private businesses, and leaders across the state to join together to take action.

HOME PRICES INCREASED BY IN THE FIRST QUARTER OF 2020

12.3%

MEDIAN SALES PRICE FOR A HOME IN UTAH $400,000 $300,000 $200,000 $100,000 $0

2000

2005

2010

2015

2020

The median price for single-family homes, condominiums, townhomes, and twin homes in Utah increased from $139,000 in 2000 to $355,000 in 2020.

Source: Cushman & Wakefield 2021 L E G I SL AT I V E P R IO R I T I E S

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HOU SI NG A F F OR DA B I L I T Y

50%+ OF INCOME

IN 2018, ONE IN EIGHT UTAH HOMEOWNERS BELOW MEDIAN INCOME PAID 50% OR MORE OF THEIR INCOME FOR HOUSING.

Utah’s housing shortage and escalating prices reflect local housing policies. The best chance to shrink the shortage and improve affordability depends on local policies and practices. Zoning ordinances are the dominant public policy in determining the character of a community’s housing stock. The number, type, price, size, and location of housing units reflect the local zoning ordinances. As a best practice, zoning reform has the greatest potential of any practice to positively affect housing affordability.

Source: “Housing Affordability: What Are Best Practices and Why Are They Important?,” Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute, November 2020

HOUSING CAN PROMOTE INCLUSIVITY AND EQUALITY

Housing historians point out that in 1916 just eight U.S. cities had zoning ordinances, but that by 1936 that number had grown to 1,246—Salt Lake City was among them. Much of this change can be attributed to communities implementing exclusionary zoning—which remains a widely used form of discrimination today. Access to stable housing can have a significant impact on health, education, and career opportunities. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that all Utahns can afford a home, and feel at home, in this state.

Source: Salt Lake City Residential Security Map, 1933

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S ALT L AK E C HAM BE R

CHAMBER BUSINESS PERSPECTIVE

85%

believe reasonably priced housing is important to recruit and retain employees

91%

of respondents think housing affordability is a major problem for continued economic growth

Source: Salt Lake Chamber Member Survey Results

2021 LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES We support programs that provide technical assistance to local communities and training for local land use officials as they plan for growth, specifically the connection between land use, property rights, economic development, and quality of life.

We support ongoing funding for public awareness efforts regarding Utah’s housing crisis and the need for positive, smart growth to address our extreme housing shortage, which has been exacerbated by the pandemic and its effects.

We support incentivizing mixed-use developments that align with state and local transportation investments and make smart use of land that allow residents to live in walkable, accessible communities.

We support initiatives and workforce development efforts that address the state’s ongoing construction and trade labor shortage.

We support policies that remove barriers for accessory dwelling units.

We support policies to require a demonstration of the actual municipal administrative costs compared with amounts charged for impact and permit fees to moderate costs for homebuyers.

We support public/private partnerships to address housing affordability issues.

We support policies that adapt local land use strategies to allow communities to address affordable housing needs.

Utah Chamber Policy Coalition Priority 2021 L E G I SL AT I V E P R IO R I T I E S

14

T R A N S P O R TAT I O N

Utah’s future mobility, economy, and long-term quality of life require that we continue to invest in Utah’s transportation infrastructure. Utah’s population is projected to grow to over five million by 2050. This steep growth trajectory demonstrates the importance of continued strategic investment in multimodal transportation options.

FREEWAY TRAFFIC VOLUME 110% 100% 90% 80% 70% 60%

Mar

May

Jul

Sep

Nov

Source: Utah Department of Transportation

“

Utah’s growth trajectory is largely unchanged by the pandemic. That means we still need robust and sustainable investments in a multi-modal transportation system that incorporates roads, transit, active transportation, and—more than ever— broadband, and we need to coordinate that infrastructure with local land use decisions and housing development. The priorities we invest in today will pay dividends for Utah’s long-term economic strength for generations to come.

The Utah Transportation Coalition, is a Salt Lake Chamber committee that collaborates with government, nonprofit, and private sector partners to make smart and sustainable transportation choices that will secure adequate, sustainable, and long-term funding to support necessary transportation planning and growth.

—Andrew Gruber, Executive Director, Wasatch Front Regional Council

“

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S ALT L AK E C HAM BE R

CHAMBER BUSINESS PERSPECTIVE 75% Implementing Utah’s Unified Transportation Plan between now and 2050 will result in the creation of over 200,000 new jobs, resulting from enhanced transportation efficiency, market access, and business attraction. Each $1 spent on transportation infrastructure results in over $2.50 in economic activity.

believe developing additional public transit infrastructure is moderately to extremely important to their business Source: Salt Lake Chamber Member Survey Results

2021 LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES We urge lawmakers to restore and protect ongoing and previously planned transportation funding to maintain momentum in transportation infrastructure investments, and to explore prudent use of bonding to accelerate completion of prioritized projects that support economic recovery.

We support policies to protect Utah’s supply chain and the transportation method that ensure Utah’s businesses have access to needed supplies, products, and personal protective equipment.

We support transportation policies and plans that support a high-quality of life by promoting good health, better mobility, a strong economy, and connected communities.

We support continued investment and long-term funding solutions for Utah’s multi-modal transportation network in order to maintain safety, expand capacity, and support driving, transit, and active transportation options.

We support policies that encourage innovation and increase transportation methods, access, and options.

We support users bearing the primary responsibility for funding Utah’s transportation infrastructure, including expansion of the road usage charge program.

We support programs that provide technical assistance to local communities as they plan for growth, specifically the connection between transportation, land use, and transit-oriented development.

We support investments that facilitate access to recreation, including mitigating impacts on gateway communities.

We support encouraging local governments to plan and zone for mixed-use, multi-family housing in coordination with high-capacity transportation and transit service.

Utah Chamber Policy Coalition Priority 2021 L E G I SL AT I V E P R IO R I T I E S

16

E N V I R O N M E N T & NAT U R A L R E S O U R C E S

AIR QUALITY

2020 brought successes in the area of air quality. Thanks to efforts to reduce the number of cars on the roads, improve refinery standards, lessen reliance on wood burning, and implement red air day initiatives, state-wide emissions have decreased despite a steady increase in population. After 10 years of efforts to drive down emissions, the results of these strategies and partnerships were realized and the State of Utah was declared to be in attainment for particulate matter in November 2020.

Hopefully, 2021 will build upon lessons learned during the pandemic—while many Utahns stayed home and worked remotely in March and April, we saw decreases in particulate matter and other air pollutants. Taking advantage of these lessons while maintaining full economic activity will ensure we maintain these positives for our air quality and the health of our natural landscapes.

THE UTAH CLIMATE AND CLEAN AIR COMPACT

In October 2020, the Salt Lake Chamber and over 100 Utah business and political leaders signed the Utah Climate and Clean Air Compact. The Compact calls upon the leaders and citizens of the state to adopt the mileposts of the Utah Roadmap and to be responsible stewards, in “The Utah Way.” Following the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, many Utahns began working from home. Utah Clean Air Partnership (UCAIR) engaged with several partners to survey business leaders and employees about their policies, attitudes, and experiences. 7,500 working people throughout the state responded to the survey.

94%

of executives said they are likely to continue to allow their employees to telework moving forward, specifically on poor air quality days

93%

of employees said they want to continue teleworking, specifically on poor air quality days

CLEAR THE AIR CHALLENGE The Clear the Air Challenge is a month-long competition sponsonsord by a partnership of the Salt Lake Chamber, UCAIR, and the Utah Department of Transportation. The competition gives Utahns the chance to track and share the vehicle emissions they are able to remove from Utah’s air by choosing alternative methods of transportation by using TravelWise strategies. To participate, please visit cleartheairchallenge.org.

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S ALT L AK E C HAM BE R

THE UTAH ROADMAP

In February 2020, the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute released in partnership with the Utah Legislature, the Utah Roadmap—a comprehensive plan to help Utah meet goals to improve air quality and mitigate the causes of climate change. The plan lays out seven guideposts to help policy makers reach the goals: ~ Provide economic transition ~ Reduce emissions assistance to rural ~ Lead by example communities ~ Create a premier air quality/changing climate ~ Participate in national dialogue about market-based solutions laboratory approaches to reduce carbon ~ Accelerate quality emissions growth efforts ~ Position Utah as the market-based EV state

2021 LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES Air Quality We support increased investment in transit infrastructure and service, including double-tracking FrontRunner and expanding Trax and Bus Rapid Transit options, in order to increase ridership and reduce emissions from single-occupancy vehicle miles traveled.

We support local governments planning and zoning for mixed-use, multi-family housing in proximity to high-capacity transit service, in order to increase walking, biking, and transit use, while at the same time reducing vehicle emissions.

We support policies to enable strategic and practical telework policies in order to reduce commuter miles and improve air quality.

We support targeted efforts to assist home and building owners to become more energy efficient and to improve air quality.

We support data-driven legislative efforts and Chamber partnerships to improve air quality.

We support deterring wood burning though increased enforcement on mandatory non-wood burning days and investments in wood burning change outs.

We support policies to assist the Utah Department of Environmental Quality to reduce ozone and implement the State Implementation Plan.

We support legislative policies to implement the goals of the Utah Climate and Clean Air Compact.

Utah Chamber Policy Coalition Priority 2021 L E G I SL AT I V E P R IO R I T I E S

18

E N V I R O N M E N T & NAT U R A L R E S O U R C E S

WATER

Utah remains one of the driest states in the nation and one of the fastest growing. Over time this will put tremendous stress on our finite water resources, which represent the single biggest limiting factor to Utah’s continued growth and prosperity.

Stretching those limited water supplies to meet all of our needs —water for homes and businesses, to sustain crops and rural economies, for recreation, and to preserve a healthy and resilient natural environment—represents an enormous challenge now and for the future, particularly in the face of a changing climate.

Meeting that challenge successfully calls for careful planning and coordination between industry, government, agriculture, and all of Utah’s citizens.

“

Utah was settled by pioneers who worked together to solve tough problems and took the long view.

Only by harnessing that same pioneer vision and spirit can we have any hope to solve Utah’s longterm water challenges.

—Representative Timothy Hawkes, General Counsel, Great Salt Lake Brine Shrimp Cooperative, Inc.

The Great Salt Lake is shrinking annually, approaching record low levels.

IF WATER GOALS ARE REACHED

16%

STATE-WIDE WATER USE REDUCTION WILL BE ACHIEVED BY 2030

In 2019, the Utah Department of Natural Resources established regional water conservation goals.

“

2021 LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES Water We support the implementation of advancement in water technology and infrastructure to improve efficiency of use and conservation.

We support policies to ensure the preservation of the Great Salt Lake at necessary water levels, increase water quality, and ensure balance in our ecosystem.

We support water policies that focus on state-wide, long-term plans that incorporate stakeholder input and support.

We support educating the public on their secondary water use through metering and pricing based on usage.

We support policies that encourage efficient use of water in energy production.

Utah Chamber Policy Coalition Priority 19

S ALT L AK E C HAM BE R

ENERGY

The unique circumstances of 2020, including earthquakes and significant wind storms, highlighted our everyday dependence on energy infrastructure and the importance of Utah’s diverse energy portfolio. The Salt Lake Chamber supports conservation as well as innovation in order to create a diverse energy portfolio that allows us to both care for and utilize Utah’s unique and rich energy resources.

ENERGY PRODUCTION IN UTAH BY SOURCE Geothermal 0.6%

Natural Gas Liquids 1.7%

Biomass 0.8% Wind 0.8%

Natural Gas 34%

Hydroelectric 1%

Crude Oil 24%

Solar 2.8%

Coal 35%

Source: “Foundations for a Better Energy Future,” Utah Governor’s Office of Energy Development, 2020

CHAMBER BUSINESS PERSPECTIVE

57%

of businesses ranked the development of water infrastructure and renewable energy as extremely important

33%

support the development of electric infrastructure

Source: Salt Lake Chamber Member Survey Results

2021 LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES Energy We support investment in the continued development of key energy infrastructure, including electricity transmission.

We support advancements in infrastructure and market access for Utah’s abundant energy and mineral resources, as well as alternate market solutions for renewable energy sources.

We support policies that facilitate public/private partnerships to improve the security of Utah’s critical minerals.

We support maintaining Utah’s diverse energy portfolio, including working towards greater energy efficiency and the development of new market-driven energy technologies.

We support investment in Utah’s network of electrical charging stations to increase range capability of electric vehicles.

Utah Chamber Policy Coalition Priority 2021 L E G I SL AT I V E P R IO R I T I E S

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H E A LT H C A R E

“

The pandemic has reminded each of us how vital health care services are to our community’s well-being. We have also gained a deeper appreciation for how mental health and social factors significantly affect health outcomes. We must continue to orient our health care payment and delivery systems to address these realities.

—Andrew Croshaw, Co-Chair, Health Systems Reform Committee

“

Health care has perhaps never been so prominent a social and policy issue as it has been during this global pandemic.

The health care industry’s immediate adaptation to respond to the pandemic brought about short-term responses and will likely have long-term impacts for the industry. While telehealth has slowly been making its way into the delivery of medical services for many years, this technology enabled, accessible method quickly became the primary format for delivering non-urgent medical attention and care. In March and April 2020, in-person visits dropped to below 50 percent of their 2019 levels and the number of claims for telehealth visits regarding mental health treatment increased—and nearly half of them were mental health related. After reaching a peak around mid-April, the number of telehealth visits began to decline.

INCREASE

Call volume to the University Neuropsychiatric Institute increased nearly 25% in May

25.5%

25%

8.1%

PANDEMIC IMPACT ON ONGOING MENTAL HEALTH CHALLENGES

Nationally, reported symptoms of anxiety rose from 8.1% in 2019 to 25.5% in 2020

6.5%

24.3%

Depression symptoms also spiked, from 6.5% in 2019 to 24.3% in 2020

We continue to prioritize behavioral health and provide support to businesses so employers can support their employees and ensure they have access to the resources they need to thrive.

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3 DRUG COSTS

of businesses responded that employee mental and emotional wellness has been negatively impacted by the current economic situation

1 TRANSPARENCY

61%

RANKED TOP 3 HEALTH CARE ISSUES

2 MENTAL HEALTH

CHAMBER BUSINESS PERSPECTIVE

Source: Salt Lake Chamber Member Survey Results

2021 LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES Because Utah businesses play a key role in improving the health and well-being of their employees, we support reforms that lower unsustainable costs, foster innovation, and enhance the private market.

We support improved price transparency to better inform Utah businesses and families about their total health care costs.

We support policies that make access to behavioral health care services simpler and more affordable, reduce provider shortage, and prevent suicides in our state.

We support continued adoption of telehealth policies that lower health care costs for Utahns and make access to care more convenient.

We support Medicaid assistance that helps to meet the needs of Utahns.

We support health care payment and delivery reforms that align consumer, payer, and provider incentives around principles of prevention, population health management, and total cost of care.

Utah Chamber Policy Coalition Priority 2021 L E G I SL AT I V E P R IO R I T I E S

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COMMUNITY

More than any other time in our recent history, current circumstances require us to bind together as a community and act collectively for the good of all. The challenges we’ve faced recently have forged a greater sense of shared identity and turned us into a more united and cohesive community.

Despite the pandemic’s devastating impact to the tourism industry, the long-term outlook for Utah’s visitor economy is promising. Our state’s outdoor wonders are well-suited to accommodate social distancing and increased activity in many instances. Continued efforts to protect and support these popular recreational assets, as well as targeted support to other sectors of the tourism industry are essential to recovery in this area.

26.9% Jul

41.4%

31.8%

53.4% Apr

Aug

May

39.0%

13.2%

0%

Mar

20%

28.9%

40%

10.8%

60%

Feb

80%

Jun

IN THE FIRST 8 MONTHS OF 2020, UTAH STATE PARKS VISITS INCREASED BY 1.8 MILLION VISITORS OVER THE PREVIOUS YEAR

Jan

Utah’s eight convention districts, along with Salt Lake City’s downtown hotel district, restaurants, and retail establishments have been an especially hard hit part of Utah’s economy. The State and the Utah Office of Tourism have made strategic investments to assist these highly impacted regions. Additional investments will be needed going forward to ensure business survival.

Source: Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute

2021 LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES We support the development and funding of Utah’s recreational assets, including additional facilities to meet growing demands while improving outdoor access for residents and addressing infrastructure needs.

We support funding for public transit solutions to ski resorts and mountain communities.

We support an increased investment in the development and maintenance of Utah’s outdoor recreation areas to both ensure preservation and allow greater access.

We support directing state funds to promote Utah tourism products and assets where there is capacity for growth; this includes state parks, winter sports, cultural assets and other attractions.

We support providing target assistance to ensure the survival of Utah’s arts and cultural sector.

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DOWNTOWN SALT LAKE CITY

The Downtown Salt Lake economy has been one of the most MEETINGS impacted sectors of the economy. The lack of cultural events, CANCELLED meetings, and conventions downtown removed the natural LOST IN ecosystem that supports the restaurants and shopping areas that BUSINESS create the character of our downtown. In 2019, 2.8 million tickets were sold to cultural performances and sporting events, resulting in hundreds of millions in additional spending at downtown restaurants and retailers. That spending ceased at the onset of the pandemic and is not expected to return at any meaningful level before the third quarter of 2021.

x

135 $320M

In 2020, the Downtown Alliance encouraged safe participation in downtown cultural and commercial experiences, through initiating Downtown SLC Open Streets, promoting incentives through the Shop in Utah grant, and collating information about the many dining options available throughout restricted phases. They also produced a weekly farmers market to support Utah farmers and created the Tip Your Server program to raise private funds to support displaced hospitality workers. Utah Symphony, Utah Opera, and other arts organizations increased the virtual content they offer, and The Blocks found ways to elevate creative content and promote local artists.

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FUTURE BOOKED MEETINGS BRINGING COLLECTIVELY MORE THAN

$350M

Despite the crushing impact of the pandemic on Salt Lake City’s economy, Visit Salt Lake has booked future meetings and conventions in 2021. Continued cooperation is essential to ensure that Downtown Salt Lake City remains the vibrant heard of our Capital City.

2021 LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES We support initiatives that encourage a robust night-time economy in the convention district and improve Salt Lake City’s standing among its competitive set for recruiting employers, talent, meetings, and conventions.

We support housing and economic policies that help individuals and families achieve housing and prevent homelessness.

We support improving the governance and systems for providing shelter and services for people experiencing homelessness and reducing street camping.

We support initiatives that help curtail aggressive panhandling.

We support the development of a permanent Downtown Public Market.

2021 L E G I SL AT I V E P R IO R I T I E S

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E Q UA L I T Y & I N C L U S I O N I N O P P O R T U N I T Y

Diverse and inclusive workforces are a key component of successful businesses and successful communities. Utah’s highly competitive economic environment requires businesses to improve their hiring and workplace practices and ensure they are creating inclusive workplaces. Companies must foster environments where diverse voices are valued and engage in recruiting, hiring, and advancement practices that provide opportunities equally.

The Salt Lake Chamber is committed to working with our members, our Board, and our partners in the community to address issues of racism, diversity, equality, and inclusion in our own organization and throughout the state. At this time when we are confronted with the painful reality of racism in our society, we recognize that words are not enough. We commit to be better and more active allies and to do all we can to eliminate injustice and promote equality.

Utah is widely known as the best place to do business. But that is not enough. We commit to working together to make Utah the best place to do business for everyone.

White $75,200 Black $41,700 Hispanic $53,500 Source: “Census data shows income disparity between white and minority households persists in Utah,” Salt Lake Tribune, 9 December 2020

Income disparity between white and minority households is a significant issue in Utah. As of 2019, white household income averaged 45 percent more than Black homes and nearly 30 percent more than Hispanic families.

Utah’s multicultural population is projected to increase from approximately the 20 percent of 2015 to 35 percent by 2065.

Half of Utah’s population growth in the that time frame will come from nonwhite individuals—with those identifying as “Two or More Races” as the fastest growing demographic. As Utah becomes more diverse, we must work to ensure that all Utahns have equitable access to Utah’s resources—business opportunities, education, and housing must be accessible to all Utahns.

40% 30% 20% 0%

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

Source: “Utah’s Increasing Diversity: Population Projections by Race/Ethnicity,” Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute, April 2019 25

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UTAH COMPACT ON RACIAL EQUITY, DIVERSITY, AND INCLUSION

On December 15, 2020, Governor Herbert, along with the Salt Lake Chamber and a number of other community and business leaders signed the Utah Compact on Racial Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion. The Compact commits to the following five principles in relation to equity, diversity, and inclusion: ~ Acknowledgment and action ~ Investment ~ Public policies and listening ~ Engagement ~ Movement, not a moment We invite you or your organization to sign the Utah Compact: slchamber.com/utahcompact.

SALT LAKE CHAMBER DIVERSITY COUNCIL

In effort to ensure real change and impact, the Salt Lake Chamber recently created a Diversity Council to advise the Chamber Board to accomplish the following: ~ To ensure the Chamber Board is more inclusive and represents and listens to more diverse voices. ~ To ensure the Chamber activities, policies, and events are more inclusive and provide equal opportunities for participation. ~ To provide the resources and training to our members to help each of them accomplish their goals within their businesses. ~ Amplify and recognize the good work of our members. ~ Help improve and move these same goals within our community.

2021 LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES We support employer-led policies to remove discriminatory hiring and employment practices and create greater equality in hiring and advancement.

We support the funding to support the efforts of the Utah Division of Multicultural Affairs to direct efforts of diversity and economic development.

We support policies that support the goals of the Utah Compact on Racial Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion.

We support policies that ensure communication and administration of government, health, and education services reaches all communities.

2021 L E G I SL AT I V E P R IO R I T I E S

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U TA H C H A M B E R P O L I C Y C OA L I T I O N

In an effort to strengthen the voice of Utah business across the state and form a stronger coalition of Utah businesses, local chambers from across Utah gathered in June of 2020 to create the Utah Chamber Policy Coalition, a state-wide organization with the purpose of advocating for unified policy interests that will promote business success, jobs, opportunity, and prosperity. The Coalition works closely with state, local, and federal leaders to provide coordinated and consistent input on policies related to economic issues including, taxation, regulation, education, housing, environment, and transportation.

The Utah Chamber Policy Coalition, identifies and discusses areas of unified support—those areas are designated by the Coalition logo throughout this guide and will be be emphasized during the legislative session. While a common voice is the goal, all members maintain their own voices and independence on issues unique to each local chamber.

MEMBERS OF THE COALITION American Fork Chamber of Commerce Blanding Chamber of Commerce Box Elder Chamber of Commerce Cache Valley Chamber of Commerce Carbon County Chamber of Commerce Cedar City Chamber of Commerce Chamber West Davis Chamber of Commerce Eagle Mountain Chamber of Commerce Emery County Business Chamber Escalante & Boulder Chamber of Commerce Moab Chamber of Commerce Ogden Chamber of Commerce Park City Chamber/Visitors Bureau

Payson Santaquin Area Chamber of Commerce Pleasant Grove-Lindon Chamber of Commerce Richfield Area Chamber of Commerce South Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce South Valley Chamber of Commerce Southwest Valley Chamber of Commerce St. George Area Chamber of Commerce Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce UZONA Chamber of Commerce Vernal Chamber of Commerce West Jordan Chamber of Commerce

If you represent a chamber of commerce and would like to join the coalition, contact Nic Dunn at: ndunn@slchamber.com.

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U TA H C O M M U N I T Y B U I L D E R S

Utah businesses not only provide essential goods and services to Utahns and customers the world over, they also increasingly seek to make Utah the best place to live, work, and raise a family through social impact efforts. Utah Community Builders is the Salt Lake Chamber’s new nonprofit social impact foundation, creating a platform for businesses to engage on our most pressing challenges, harnessing the innovation and efficiency of the private sector to drive real progress on social issues affecting our businesses, workforce, families, and all Utahns.

UTAH COMMUNITY BUILDERS IS FOCUSING ON FOUR PRIORITIES

Upward mobility

Mental health

Child care and family leave

In October 2020, Utah Community Builders launched a state-wide initiative to improve the mental and emotional wellness of Utah’s workers. “Workforce Resilience through Mental Fitness” brings together a group of experts, advocates, and business leaders to enhance awareness and remove stigma associated with mental health in the workplace, and provide business leaders with actionable tools to elevate the mental fitness of their employees.

Immigration

For more information about Utah Community Builders, visit slchamber.com/utahcommunitybuilders or contact Nic Dunn at: ndunn@slchamber.com.

2021 L E G I SL AT I V E P R IO R I T I E S

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L E G I S L AT I V E P R I O R I T I E S BUSINESS CLIMATE • We strongly support maintaining a stable and predictable regulatory business environment and tax structure that will better allow businesses to focus on short-term recovery from the current economic conditions.

• We support a pandemic response strategy that is based upon public health guidelines and applies those guidelines strategically to protect economic interests and safe business environments.

• We support targeted incentives and support for industries and businesses important to our community and most seriously impacted by the pandemic.

• We support an aggressive public health response to COVID-19 through wearing masks, surveillance testing, contact tracing, and efficient vaccine distribution in order to protect public health and insulate Utah’s business operations and economic activity.

• We support rural economic development incentives that improve effectiveness of existing programs and reduce potential duplications.

• We support legislation that protects businesses that adhere to cybersecurity best practices.

• We support policies that facilitate statewide broadband access and greater digital equity for all Utahns through partnerships and coordination with industry, that give control to families to choose the internet access services best for them and without increasing existing rates for Utahns.

• We support federal data security policies that provide for consumer transparency, access and deletion of information that minimize costs to businesses, and are uniform across all states.

LABOR & EMPLOYMENT • We support targeted workforce development investments including retraining or upskilling pandemic affected workers and adult students to meet increasing workforce demands in economic sectors with identified and growing shortages.

• We support workforce development partnerships between employers and our K-12 and higher education system, specifically programs targeted to meet identified workforce shortages.

• We support employer-led policies to remove discriminatory hiring and employment practices and create greater equity in hiring and advancement.

• We support data-driven and employer-led policies that close the gender wage gap.

• We support ongoing funding for the Build to Success program which helps high-school students find opportunities in the construction and building field.

• We support immigration laws that comply with the principles of the Utah Compact and promote the education, availability, and expertise of our workforce.

• We support policies that encourage best practices for addressing mental health issues and suicide prevention in the workforce.

• We support family and personal leave policies that provide employers and employees with flexibility in addressing the needs of family and life outside of the workplace.

• We support policies that help to address the costs, access, and quality of child care options for Utah’s working families.

EDUCATION • We support improving the K-12 education of Utah students by recruiting and retaining qualified educators.

• We support efforts to ensure students across the state have equitable access to educational opportunities in public and post-secondary education.

• We support legislative efforts to ensure stability in education funding that take into account the increasing number of students and attendant costs.

• We support additional resources for expanding access to all-day kindergarten and professional learning for interventions for our early learning educators.

• We support legislative efforts that contribute to a consistent state-wide education plan.

• We support programs and assessments that improve early learning in literacy and mathematics.

• We support improving access to STEM education.

• We support funding to provide high-quality computer science education for every student.

• We support aligning post-secondary education pathways for Utah students across the system to address identified workforce gaps.

• We support initiatives that will bring about greater digital equity for Utah students across the state.

• We support ongoing investment for a state-wide college access advisor program and assessment resources to help increase the number of high school graduates enrolling in post-secondary education programs.

Utah Chamber Policy Coalition Priority 29

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HOUSING AFFORDABILITY • We support legislation to support and require technical assistance to local communities and training for land use officials as they plan for growth, specifically the connection between land use, property rights, economic development, and quality of life.

• We support ongoing funding for public awareness efforts regarding Utah’s housing crisis and the need for positive, smart growth to address our extreme housing shortage, which has been exacerbated by the pandemic and its effects.

• We support incentivizing mixed-use developments that align with state and local transportation investments and make smart use of land that allows residents to live in walkable, accessible communities.

• We support initiatives and workforce development efforts that address the state’s ongoing construction and trade labor shortage.

• We support policies that remove barriers for accessory dwelling units.

• We support policies to require a demonstration of the actual municipal administrative costs compared with amounts charged for impact and permit fees to moderate costs for homebuyers.

• We support public/private partnerships to address housing affordability issues.

• We support policies that adapt local land use strategies to allow communities to address affordable housing needs.

TRANSPORTATION • We urge lawmakers to restore and protect ongoing and previously planned transportation funding to maintain momentum in transportation infrastructure investments, and to explore prudent use of bonding to accelerate completion of prioritized projects that support economic recovery.

• We support policies to protect Utah’s supply chain and the transportation method that ensure Utah’s businesses have access to needed supplies, products, and personal protective equipment.

• We support transportation policies and plans that support a high-quality of life by promoting good health, better mobility, a strong economy, and connected communities.

• We support continued investment and long-term funding solutions for Utah’s multi-modal transportation network in order to maintain safety, expand capacity, and support driving, transit, and active transportation options.

• We support policies that encourage innovation and increase transportation methods, access, and options.

• We support users bearing the primary responsibility for funding Utah’s transportation infrastructure, including expansion of the road usage charge program.

• We support programs that provide technical assistance to local communities as they plan for growth, specifically the connection between transportation, land use, and transit-oriented development.

• We support investments that facilitate access to recreation, including mitigating impacts on gateway communities.

• We support encouraging local governments to plan and zone for mixed-use, multi-family housing in coordination with high-capacity transportation and transit service.

ENVIRONMENT Air Quality • We support increased investment in transit infrastructure and service, including double-tracking FrontRunner and expanding Trax and Bus Rapid Transit options, in order to increase ridership and reduce emissions from single-occupancy vehicle miles traveled.

• We support local governments planning and zoning for mixed-use, multi-family housing in proximity to high-capacity transit service, in order to increase walking, biking, and transit use, while at the same time reducing vehicle emissions.

• We support policies to enable strategic and practical telework policies in order to reduce commuter miles and improve air quality.

• We support targeted efforts to assist home and building owners to become more energy efficient and to improve air quality.

• We support data-driven legislative efforts and Chamber partnerships to improve air quality.

• We support deterring wood burning though increased enforcement on mandatory non-wood burning days and investments in wood burning change outs.

• We support policies to assist the Utah Department of Environmental Quality to reduce ozone and implement the State Implementation Plan.

• We support legislative policies to implement the goals of the Utah Climate and Clean Air Compact.

Water • We support the implementation of advancement in water technology and infrastructure to improve efficiency of use and conservation.

• We support policies to ensure the preservation of the Great Salt Lake at necessary water levels, increase water quality, and ensure balance in our ecosystem.

Utah Chamber Policy Coalition Priority 2021 L E G I SL AT I V E P R IO R I T I E S

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L E G I S L AT I V E P R I O R I T I E S • We support water policies that focus on state-wide, long-term plans that incorporate stakeholder input and support.

• We support educating the public on their secondary water use through metering and pricing based on usage.

• We support policies that encourage efficient use of water in energy production.

Energy • We support investment in the continued development of key energy infrastructure, including electricity transmission.

• We support advancements in infrastructure and market access for Utah’s abundant energy and mineral resources, as well as alternate market solutions for renewable energy sources.

• We support policies that facilitate public/private partnerships to improve the security of Utah’s critical minerals.

• We support maintaining Utah’s diverse energy portfolio, including working towards greater energy efficiency and the development of new market-driven energy technologies.

• We support investment in Utah’s network of electrical charging stations to increase range capability of electric vehicles.

HEALTH CARE • Because Utah businesses play a key role in improving the health and well-being of their employees, we support reforms that lower unsustainable costs, foster innovation, and enhance the private market.

• We support improved price transparency to better inform Utah businesses and families about their total health care costs.

• We support policies that make access to behavioral health care services simpler and more affordable, reduce provider shortage, and prevent suicides in our state.

• We support continued adoption of telehealth policies that lower health care costs for Utahns and make access to care more convenient.

• We support Medicaid assistance that helps to meet the needs of Utahns.

• We support health care payment and delivery reforms that align consumer, payer, and provider incentives around principles of prevention, population health management, and total cost of care.

COMMUNITY • We support the development and funding of Utah’s recreational assets, including additional facilities to meet growing demands while improving outdoor access for residents and addressing infrastructure needs.

• We support funding for public transit solutions to ski resorts and mountain communities.

• We support an increased investment in the development and maintenance of Utah’s outdoor recreation areas to both ensure preservation and allow greater access.

• We support directing state funds to promote Utah tourism products and assets where there is capacity for growth; this includes state parks, winter sports, cultural assets and other attractions.

• We support providing target assistance to ensure the survival of Utah’s arts and cultural sector.

Dountown Salt Lake • We support initiatives that encourage a robust night-time economy in the convention district and improve Salt Lake City’s standing among its competitive set for recruiting employers, talent, meetings, and conventions.

• We support housing and economic policies that help individuals and families achieve housing and prevent homelessness.

• We support improving the governance and systems for providing shelter and services for people experiencing homelessness and reducing street camping.

• We support initiatives that help curtail aggressive panhandling.

• We support the development of a permanent Downtown Public Market.

EQUALITY & INCLUSION IN OPPORTUNITY • We support employer-led policies to remove discriminatory hiring and employment practices and create greater equality in hiring and advancement.

• We support the funding to support the efforts of the Utah Division of Multicultural Affairs to direct efforts of diversity and economic development.

• We support policies that support the goals of the Utah Compact on Racial Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion.

• We support policies that ensure communication and administration of government, health, and education services reaches all communities.

Utah Chamber Policy Coalition Priority 31

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C H A M B E R M E M B E R S U R V E Y R E S U LT S H I G H L I G H T S REGULATION RELATED RECOVERY NEEDS: #

1

Reducing tax burden on business

#

2

Maintaining a stable tax structure on business for the foreseeable future

Reducing or streamlining business regulation

#

3

Retraining/upskilling employees from severely impacted industries, to help them transition to industries with a workforce shortage

#

4

Reducing or streamlining requirements for occupational/professional licensing

#

5

Maintaining a stable regulatory environment

#

6

Targeted investment/support for severely impacted industries

#

7

Public health guidelines

COVID-19 EFFECT ON BUSINESS AND EMPLOYEES: 20.4%

8.9% Positive

64.2%

Neither positive nor negative

2021 L E G I SL AT I V E P R IO R I T I E S

6.5% Negative

Both positive and negative

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C H A M B E R M E M B E R S U R V E Y R E S U LT S H I G H L I G H T S

IMPORTANCE OF THE FOLLOWING BUSINESS REGULATION ISSUES: Very Important

Extremely Important

Costs related to regulation

28.7%

29.8%

Complication of regulation

33.9%

32.8%

Time required for licensing

21.1%

12.3%

Number of regulations

31.0%

22.8%

SUPPORT FOR THE FOLLOWING EDUCATION INITIATIVES FOCUSED ON WORKFORCE: 87.7% Increased support for programs that address technical and trade-based skill development for identified workforce gaps

82.9% Workforce development partnerships between employers and K-12 and higher education, specifically programs that identify workforce needs 79.4% A greater focus on experiential learning, or skills-based education, in secondary and post-secondary education

69.4% Increased support for stackable credential programs related to workforce shortages

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SUPPORT FOR TAX CREDITS OR EXEMPTIONS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF HOUSING IN PROXIMITY TO HIGH-CAPACITY TRANSPORTATION, ESPECIALLY TRANSIT: 45.7%

43.3% Yes

Maybe

11% No

SUPPORT FOR A TAX CREDIT FOR EMPLOYERS FOR CHILD CARE INVESTMENTS: 33.1% Definitely Yes

37.4% Probably Yes

2021 L E G I SL AT I V E P R IO R I T I E S

19% Might or Might Not

6.8% Probably Not

3.7%

Definitely Not

34

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PUBLIC POLICY COMMITTEE CHAIRS

Amanda Covington EVP Communications & Government Affairs Larry H. Miller Group of Companies

Jonathan Hafen Shareholder Parr Brown Gee & Loveless

OUR POLICY TEAM

Jacey Skinner General Counsel and Executive VP of Public Policy Salt Lake Chamber jskinner@slchamber.com

2021 L E G I SL AT I V E P R IO R I T I E S

Nic Dunn Utah Community Builders and Public Policy Programs Director Salt Lake Chamber 801-349-5961

Kaitlyn Pieper Director of Community Policy Salt Lake Chamber 801-328-5056

ndunn@slchamber.com

kpieper@slchamber.com

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1 7 5 E. U N I V ER S IT Y BLVD . (400 S.) SUIT E 600 S A LT L AK E C IT Y, UT 84111 801.364.3631 S L C H AM BER.C OM / POLIC Y

A special thank you to our policy committees for their guidance and help in shaping our legislative priorities.