Utah Rising
Dear Business Leader,
As we look forward to 2025, Utah stands at a pivotal moment in its economic journey. Our state has long been recognized as a leader in business innovation, workforce development and economic resilience. However, with this success comes the responsibility to ensure that Utah remains a place where businesses can thrive, communities can flourish and future generations can build their dreams.
We are pleased to present the 2025 Salt Lake Chamber Public Policy Guide: Utah Rising, a comprehensive blueprint designed to address the critical challenges and opportunities facing our state. This guide outlines our policy priorities for the upcoming legislative session and reflects our shared commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment, enhancing workforce readiness and ensuring sustainable growth for all Utahns.
Among the key priorities in this guide, we emphasize the importance of a trained and healthy workforce, recognizing that the foundation of a thriving economy lies in the skills, knowledge and well-being of our people. We also highlight the necessity of robust transportation infrastructure to support our growing economy and housing affordability to ensure that our employees and customers have homes that are affordable in neighborhoods that are safe.
In addition, we address the imperative of maintaining Utah’s business environment as one of the most competitive in the nation, the critical need for responsible stewardship of our environment and natural resources, and the opportunities for growth through strategic investments in economic opportunities, education and workforce development.
We urge the legislature to take decisive action on these priorities, from securing funding for infrastructure and mental health initiatives to supporting policies that foster innovation and sustainability. Together, these efforts will help us capitalize on our strengths, address our challenges and continue to build a prosperous future for Utah.
We invite you to join us in advocating for these essential policy positions. Your leadership and support are crucial as we work to keep Utah at the forefront of economic success and community well-being.
Thank you for your continued commitment to our state and its future.
Sincerely,
Derek Miller President & CEO Salt Lake Chamber
Nathan Callister 2024-2025 Board Chair Salt Lake Chamber
SALT LAKE CHAMBER OVERVIEW
Mission
We stand as the voice of business, support our members’ success and champion community prosperity.
Vision
Unlimited opportunity and prosperity.
Core Competencies
• Advocate Policy
• Build Business
• Connect Community star
5-Star Accreditation
The Salt Lake Chamber has been recognized by the United States Chamber of Commerce with a 5-Star Accreditation for its sound policies, effective organizational procedures and positive impact on the community.
The Salt Lake Chamber is Utah’s largest and longestserving business association. A statewide chamber of commerce with members in all 29 Utah counties, the Chamber represents the broad interests of the state’s 63,000-plus employers, which employ more than 1.4 million Utahns. This includes thousands of Chamber members and their employees. With roots that date back to 1887, the Chamber stands as the voice of business, supports its members’ success and champions community prosperity.
Committable Core Values
• Member Centered: We exist to serve our members.
• Community Focused: We contribute to a flourishing community where all have the opportunity to thrive.
• Common Ground: We serve as a trusted information source and convener of collaborative community partners.
• Free Enterprise: We extol and support the virtues of America’s spirit of free enterprise system.
• Corporate Citizenship: We cultivate businesses as creators and stewards of the economic ecosystem.
STEPS IN DEVELOPING LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES & PRIORITY VOTES
By following the process outlined below, the Salt Lake 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.
Identify Business Community Priorities
Before the legislative session, the Chamber comprehensively reviews the business community’s needs and concerns. This involves consulting with various stakeholders, including a member survey, industry experts and relevant committees.
Evaluation and Selection
Based on the feedback received, the Chamber evaluates and prioritizes the key issues of the business community. These issues typically directly impact the Chamber’s members and the broader business environment.
Inclusion in Public Policy Guide
The Public Policy Guide serves as an outline of the 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.
Legislative Business Champions
Limit the Number of Priorities
To maintain focus and effectiveness of advocacy efforts, the Board of Directors limits the number of “Priority Votes” to a specific threshold, often 20 or fewer. This cap ensures that the Chamber can strategically allocate its resources, time and influence to the most critical legislative initiatives.
Advocacy and Engagement
Once “Priority Votes” are selected, the Chamber concentrates its advocacy efforts and resources on these toppriority issues. This includes engaging with legislators, policymakers and other stakeholders to promote and support these pieces of legislation.
Regular Monitoring and Updates
The Chamber closely monitors the progress of “Priority Votes” and provides timely updates to its members and the business community. This process may involve lobbying, providing expert testimony and mobilizing support for or against specific bills.
The legislature is pivotal in maintaining Utah’s pro-business environment, and the Salt Lake Chamber recognizes supportive legislators by honoring them with Legislative Business Champion Awards. This annual designation is closely linked to the Chamber’s Priority Votes. Legislators who align their votes with 90% of the Priority Votes during bill passage receive this prestigious award. The designation also takes into consideration the support or sponsorship of opposed legislation.
Education and workforce development are at the heart of Utah’s values, forming the foundation for the state’s future. In Utah, a strong emphasis on education reflects a deep commitment to equipping individuals with the knowledge, skills and character necessary to thrive in an increasingly complex and competitive world. Workforce development ensures that these educational efforts translate into meaningful employment opportunities, fueling economic growth and innovation. Together, education and workforce readiness are essential to preserving and enhancing Utah’s unique culture of industriousness, community and self-reliance. By investing in these areas, Utah not only strengthens its economy but also upholds the values of opportunity, excellence and lifelong learning that are central to its identity.
We urge the legislature to:
• Increase Access to Affordable Child Care: Provide tax incentives and support programs for businesses offering on-site child care or partnering with local providers to improve access for working families.
• Invest in Workforce Training: Boost funding for training programs through public and private technical colleges and universities, focusing on critical industries like advanced
manufacturing, health care and technology. Expand stackable credentials to address skills gaps.
• Support Workforce Reentry Programs: Fund initiatives that help displaced workers, women reentering the workforce and underserved communities. Foster collaboration among higher education institutions, government agencies and industry leaders to meet evolving market needs.
• Align Credentials with Market Needs: Establish a Master Credential List of industry-recognized certifications aligned with labor market demands and wage thresholds, emphasizing stackable and portable credentials. Promote partnerships between schools and employers to expand work-based learning opportunities.
• Engage Private Sector Expertise: Ensure private sector members play a critical role in talent advisory councils to align workforce development strategies with industry needs.
• Limit Employer Liability for Second-Chance Hiring: Reduce liability risks for employers hiring individuals with criminal records, promoting workforce inclusion and helping lower recidivism rates.
Utah has a unique opportunity to lead in the responsible expansion of energy production and critical minerals development, both of which are essential for advancing high-tech industries, national security and economic resilience. By supporting policies that encourage increasing energy production and extraction in environmentally sustainable ways, the state can boost its capacity in these areas while safeguarding Utah’s natural resources. Legislative incentives will drive economic growth and position Utah as a key player in the global shift toward clean energy, securing both environmental and economic benefits for future generations.
We urge the legislature to:
• Leverage Our Universities on Energy and Critical Minerals: Incentivize research to help develop Utah’s energy and critical minerals resources and prepare policymakers to make informed decisions on the safety, reliability, water use, land use and air quality impacts of that development.
• Support Responsible Critical Minerals Development: Provide incentives for environmentally sustainable extraction of critical minerals, which are essential for the high-tech, clean energy and national defense industries.
• Support Investments in a Diversified Energy Portfolio: Help prevent the looming energy shortage that would negatively impact all businesses and communities across the state.
• Balance Economic and Environmental Impacts: Work with communities to facilitate the local economic benefits of responsible energy and critical minerals development while minimizing adverse effects on air quality, water and land use.
ENVIRONMENT & NATURAL RESOURCES
Iconic landscapes, pristine waterbodies and clean air are fundamental to Utah’s identity and economic vitality. These natural resources provide the foundation for industries such as agriculture, energy and tourism while sustaining Utah residents’ health and well-being. Impaired air quality, lack of water and diminished open space can limit growth potential for the state. By pursuing policies that allow Utah to continue benefiting from its natural beauty and resources while prioritizing responsible stewardship of water, air, land and energy resources, Utah can foster long-term prosperity, protect its unique landscapes and ensure a high quality of life for its citizens.
We urge the legislature to:
• Prepare for Increased Wildfire Threats: Invest in proactive fuel management, community preparedness and enhanced suppression strategies to minimize wildfire impacts on energy infrastructure, property, airshed and ecosystems.
• Encourage Long-Term Water Conservation Measures: Support municipal, industrial, agricultural and individual water users to adapt to a future with less water through education, incentives and positive modeling.
• Steward Statewide Waterbodies: Support policies to enhance and protect critical watersheds, including the Great Salt Lake, Utah Lake, Bear Lake and the Colorado River.
GREAT SALT LAKE
Utah has been fortunate to enjoy two strong snow years since the Great Salt Lake hit an all-time low water level in 2022, but managing the lake in a shifting climate is a multi-decade job. Proactive investments today continue to be necessary to stave off the threat of a $30 billion impact on the state’s economy, plus disruptions to international ecosystems and supply chains that rely on the lake.
We urge the legislature to:
• Stay Focused on the Great Salt Lake Strategic Plan: Invest in research, water metering, water conservation, water shepherding and wetland restoration to build economic and ecological resilience for the lake.
• Collaborate at All Levels of Government: Support opportunities to partner with federal agencies, state agencies and local water managers for coordinated, efficient management.
Access to affordable, high-quality health care is vital for Utah’s workforce, directly impacting productivity, well-being and economic growth. Rising health care costs place significant burdens on businesses and employees, underscoring the need for legislative action to promote transparency, competition and cost reductions. Expanding access to telemedicine and mental health resources ensures employees receive the care they need without undue financial strain, strengthening both businesses and communities statewide. A healthy workforce is the foundation of a vibrant economy, and we support policies that enhance access to affordable, high-quality health care while recognizing the essential role of employers in providing coverage. We urge policymakers to work collaboratively with the business community to develop sustainable solutions that expand access to care and promote a healthier, more resilient workforce.
We urge the legislature to:
• Promote Affordable Health Care Solutions: Advocate for policies that help manage premiums and out-of-pocket expenses for employers and employees without shifting costs, ensuring businesses can continue to provide comprehensive health benefits.
• Expand Telemedicine and Mental Health Access: Increase support for telemedicine and workplace mental health resources to ensure accessible, affordable care for Utah’s workforce.
• Support Small and Medium-Sized Businesses: Provide resources and incentives to help businesses offer competitive health benefits without undue financial strain.
• Foster a Transparent Marketplace: Promote competition and innovation among insurers and health care providers to empower consumers with better options and informed choices.
• Streamline Health Care Regulations: Simplify compliance processes and reduce administrative costs to free up resources for patient care and business growth.
• Champion the Utah Behavioral Health Commission’s Priorities: Support crisis outreach teams and suicide prevention campaigns and improve transports for people experiencing behavioral health crises between medical settings.
Homelessness is a critical issue impacting Utah’s communities, requiring both compassion and effective action. Public safety is foundational to a strong and stable community, directly affecting quality of life for all residents. By supporting increased resources and enforcement, the legislature can work with the business community to implement comprehensive solutions. These include accessible housing options, mental health and substance use support, and workforce reentry programs that help individuals achieve stability. Collaborative efforts will create safer, healthier communities, foster economic growth and ensure Utah remains a vibrant place to live and work.
We urge the legislature to:
• Address Homelessness to Strengthen Communities: Collaborate with the business community to tackle homelessness through workforce reentry programs, innovative housing solutions and expanded mental health support.
• Enforce Camping Ordinances: Ensure consistent enforcement of camping ordinances to maintain public safety and address community concerns.
• Support Permanent Housing for the Chronically Homeless: Partner with businesses and philanthropic organizations to invest in deeply affordable, permanent, supportive housing solutions for Utah’s chronically homeless population.
HOUSING AFFORDABILITY
Housing affordability is a critical workforce issue because the availability of moderately priced homes directly impacts the ability of workers to live close to their places of employment. When housing costs become prohibitively high, workers are often forced to relocate further away or leave the region altogether, leading to longer commutes, increased transportation costs and a diminished quality of life and environment. This displacement strains employees and creates significant challenges for businesses, as they struggle to attract and retain the talent needed to sustain operations and growth. Without access to affordable housing, the workforce is increasingly pushed out, weakening the local economy, reducing productivity and exacerbating issues like labor shortages and retention of recent graduates. Therefore, ensuring that housing remains affordable is essential for maintaining a strong, stable and accessible workforce that can support Utah’s continued economic success.
We urge the legislature to:
• Support Timely Housing Development: Expedite the review of applications for housing developments to break open the backlog of entitled lots and increase the velocity of housing projection.
• Enact Affordable Housing Incentives: Employ tax incentives, eliminate exorbitant fees and enact zoning reforms that encourage developers to increase Utah’s affordable housing stock for our growing workforce.
• Protect Existing Affordable Housing: Adopt policies that preserve affordable housing and prevent displacement in high-demand areas, ensuring long-term access for Utah families.
• Support Workforce Housing Solutions: Support initiatives that promote workforce housing near major employment hubs, reducing commute times and enhancing quality of life. Link economic development incentives to the creation of workforce housing proximate to job centers.
• Support Infrastructure to Support Housing Development: Continue the momentum generated during the last session regarding infrastructure development around allocated housing plots to increase the supply of available housing.
A competitive tax and regulatory environment is essential to fostering business growth and attracting investment in Utah. The state can support a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem by maintaining business-friendly tax policies, including potential adjustments to the corporate tax rate and incentives for startups and small businesses. Streamlining regulatory processes and reducing compliance burdens, especially for small businesses, will enable companies to operate more efficiently and focus on innovation and expansion. These measures are crucial for sustaining Utah’s reputation as a leading economic hub, driving job creation and enhancing the state’s long-term economic resilience.
We urge the legislature to:
• Continue Business-Friendly Tax Policies: Keep Utah’s tax environment competitive, considering adjustments to the corporate tax rate and incentives for startups and small businesses.
• Streamline Regulatory Processes: Reduce regulatory burdens and streamline compliance, particularly for small businesses, allowing them to thrive and grow.
TECHNOLOGY
& INNOVATION
Utah’s tech sector is vital to the state’s economy, contributing to significant job growth, innovation and economic resilience. Often referred to as “Silicon Slopes,” Utah is home to a dynamic mix of established tech companies and startups specializing in software development, cybersecurity and cloud computing. This burgeoning ecosystem has been fueled by strong educational institutions, a skilled workforce and supportive state policies. Emerging tech industries, including artificial intelligence, fintech and biotechnology, further diversify the sector, positioning Utah as a competitive player in the global tech landscape.
We urge the legislature to:
• Support Responsible AI and Technology Integration: Develop policies that promote the ethical and practical integration of AI and emerging technologies to enhance the competitiveness of Utah’s businesses. Prioritize AI research and development investments, including support for the University of Utah’s Responsible AI initiative.
• Enhance Cybersecurity Resources: Allocate funding for programs that help businesses, particularly small and mid-sized enterprises, safeguard against cyber threats, fostering a more resilient and secure business environment.
• Encourage Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Establish grant incentives to empower organizations to innovate and advance entrepreneurship, driving economic growth and opportunity.
Infrastructure is the backbone of Utah’s economy, serving as the critical framework that supports the movement of people, goods and services across the state. It underpins economic growth by enabling efficient transportation, connecting businesses with markets and ensuring that essential services like power, water and communication are reliably delivered. As Utah continues to experience rapid population growth and increasing business activity, the state will need to build more infrastructure. The additional infrastructure will not only enhance the state’s competitiveness but also improve the quality of life for its residents by reducing congestion, promoting sustainability and attracting investment. In essence, well-developed infrastructure is vital for sustaining Utah’s economic momentum, fostering innovation and ensuring that the state remains a top destination for businesses and talent.
We urge the legislature to:
• Expand Public Transit Service: Invest in public transportation to ease traffic congestion and improve workforce mobility especially in fast-growing areas, by extending and double tracking FrontRunner along the Wasatch Front and enhancing service to key destinations such as the Salt Lake City International Airport.
• Continue to Prioritize Funding for Infrastructure: Prioritize funding for critical infrastructure upgrades, including roads, bridges and digital infrastructure, to meet the needs of our business community.
• Ensure Efficient Broadband Investment: Oversee the allocation of $317 million in broadband funding through the Utah Broadband Advisory Commission to ensure effective administration, extending robust access to unserved households and community anchor institutions.
Now that Utah has secured the 2034 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, we have less than ten short years to prepare our air, land and water to be the best they can be when we once again welcome the world. The state of our airshed, landscapes and Great Salt Lake and other waterbodies will be a topic of global discussion. Proactive planning and intentional storytelling will be necessary for Utah’s continued attractiveness for economic investment, tourism and quality of life.
We urge the legislature to:
• Leverage the 2034 Winter Games as a Catalyst: Use federal, Olympics-related funds and the global focus on Utah to prioritize infrastructure investments and champion collective actions that enhance our air, land and water, benefitting Utah’s businesses and communities well beyond the Games.
• Promote Utah’s Responsible Resource Stewardship: Publicly highlight our strategies, commitments and progress in responsibly managing Utah’s natural resources. Communicating these efforts — locally, nationally and internationally — leading up to the 2034 Winter Games will demonstrate our capacity to sustainably grow our economy and strengthen Utah’s reputation.
PUBLIC POLICY ADVISORY COMMITTEES
The Salt Lake Chamber’s Public Policy Advisory Committees are specialized groups that analyze and influence public policy across key sectors. These committees provide well-informed recommendations to guide legislative decisions and promote a pro-business environment in Utah.
Chamber members are encouraged to:
Explore the Chamber’s range of Public Policy Advisory Committees and select one that aligns with their expertise and interests or is an area they wish to impact. The committees address diverse sectors and issues, including health care, transportation, economic development and education.
Actively participate in the chosen committee’s meetings, discussions and initiatives. Members are invited to share their insights, expertise and perspectives to shape the Chamber’s policy positions and advocacy efforts. Engaging in committee activities, attending meetings and collaborating with fellow members provides an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on legislative outcomes and further the Chamber’s pro-business agenda.
Co-Chairs:
Ally Isom, Vice President, Chief Strategy & Marketing Officer, Clyde Companies
Troy Keller, Partner, Dorsey & Whitney
CAPITOL CLUB
Capitol Club brings together government affairs representatives and business leaders who are passionate about shaping policy. Meeting weekly during the legislative session, members actively engage with lawmakers to create solutions that bolster Utah’s businessfriendly and economic growth environment.
FINANCE & PROFESSIONAL SERVICES COMMITTEE
The Financial & Professional Services Committee brings together a dynamic group of experts from diverse fields, including finance, legal services and accounting. These professionals analyze, discuss and offer policy recommendations directly impacting their sectors. Their valuable insights and proposals are crucial in the Chamber’s mission to foster a robust, business-friendly economic environment.
HEALTH CARE & LIFE SCIENCES COMMITTEE
The Health Care & Life Sciences Committee unites a diverse and dynamic group of professionals, experts and stakeholders from the health care, biotechnology and related industries. These dedicated individuals conduct in-depth analyses, engage in vibrant discussions and craft policy recommendations to tackle these fields’ unique challenges and opportunities. Their invaluable contributions are instrumental in shaping the Chamber’s strategic approach to advancing health care and life sciences interests across the region.
HOUSING & HOMELESSNESS COMMITTEE
The Housing & Homelessness Committee is a vibrant, collaborative initiative that brings together a diverse array of stakeholders — government agencies, nonprofit organizations and businesses — all united in their mission to address the growing gap between housing demand and supply. Focused on tackling the affordable housing crisis, this committee advocates for and implements forwardthinking policies, impactful projects and effective strategies to boost housing availability and affordability. By harnessing its diverse partners’ collective expertise and resources, the committee aims to develop innovative solutions and create sustainable housing options that benefit the entire community.
NATURAL RESOURCES BUSINESS COUNCIL
The Natural Resources Business Council is a dynamic assembly of professionals, experts and stakeholders from key industries such as energy, environmental conservation and agriculture. This council delves into in-depth analyses, fosters insightful discussions and crafts strategic policy recommendations to address these fields’ unique challenges and opportunities. Their expertise and innovative proposals are instrumental in shaping the Chamber’s commitment to promoting responsible and sustainable natural resource practices throughout the region. Our mission is to create a greener, more sustainable future for all.
TECHNOLOGY, INNOVATION & AI COMMITTEE
The Technology, Innovation & AI Committee is a powerhouse of tech industry professionals, innovators and key stakeholders. Together, they dive into in-depth analyses, engage in forward-thinking discussions and craft strategic policy recommendations to tackle unique challenges and seize opportunities in the tech sector. Their insights and proposals are pivotal in shaping the Chamber’s approach to tech-related policies, driving innovation and fueling economic growth in the region.
TRANSPORTATION & INFRASTRUCTURE COUNCIL
The Transportation & Infrastructure Council brings together a dynamic group of professionals, experts and stakeholders from diverse sectors such as transportation, engineering and urban planning. This council conducts comprehensive analyses, engages in strategic discussions and develops policy recommendations to tackle the unique challenges and opportunities within these fields. Their insights and proposals are crucial in shaping the Chamber’s approach to advancing transportation and infrastructure interests, driving progress and ensuring a sustainable, connected future for our community.
WORKFORCE & EDUCATION COMMITTEE
The Workforce & Education Committee is a vibrant coalition of professionals, educators and key stakeholders across various sectors. This dynamic team dives into detailed analyses, fosters engaging discussions and crafts strategic policy recommendations to address specific challenges and seize opportunities in workforce development and education. Their collaborative efforts are essential in shaping effective solutions and driving forward-thinking initiatives to enhance skills, boost employment and empower our community.
PUBLIC POLICY TEAM
OUR TEAM WORKS FOR YOU
The Salt Lake Chamber’s Public Policy Team is dedicated to advancing pro-business and proeconomy initiatives that strengthen Utah’s vibrant economic landscape. By convening and collaborating with diverse stakeholders, the team fosters innovative solutions to address critical policy issues and create a business-friendly climate.
We welcome the engagement of individuals and organizations, encouraging active participation in shaping and advocating for policies that support a thriving business community and sustainable economic growth. Your voice matters, and we’re here to work with you to build a prosperous future for Utah.
Mary Cathering Perry, Vice President of Public Policy and Government Affairs
Natalie Bowen, Public Policy Manager
