New priorities for Utah’s future and highlights from inauguration week

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** Letter from Gov. Cox
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Over the last four years, we’ve achieved great things together. These victories were hard-fought, but with determination and a focus on what matters, we’ve made meaningful progress. I look forward to the next chapter of our shared work as we begin my second term as Governor.

Utah is not ranked #1 because of government policies. We’re #1 because of the strength of our people — our families, neighbors and communities. Whether it’s a teacher going the extra mile, a neighbor helping in times of need or a scout leader guiding a young boy, it’s our relationships that power our state. We are defined not by wealth or status, but by a culture of service, trust and reciprocity.

Serving as your Governor has been the greatest honor of my life, and I will continue to dedicate myself to it with all my heart. But the real work — the work that truly makes Utah great — is in your hands.

Let’s continue to build the future of Utah together.


** Second Term Initiatives: People, Place & Prosperity
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As we begin the second term ([link removed]) of Governor Cox’s administration, we are excited to share the priorities that will guide our work over the next four years. Our goal is clear: to build a brighter future for all Utahns.

Focusing on three key areas — People, Place and Prosperity — we will strive to create a Utah where every individual has the opportunity to succeed, where communities are strong, and where our economy remains resilient and innovative. Together, we will continue to build a state where opportunity and growth are within reach for all.

People: We are committed to improving the well-being of every Utahn by expanding mental health services, enhancing healthcare access—especially in rural areas—and addressing housing stability to ensure everyone has the chance to succeed.

Place: We will focus on creating strong communities, improving infrastructure and ensuring responsible growth that preserves the natural beauty of Utah, making it a great place to live, work and raise a family.

Prosperity: To build a resilient and innovative economy, we will expand opportunities for entrepreneurship, strengthen workforce development and invest in education, ensuring that success and opportunity are within reach for all Utahns.
Learn more > ([link removed])


** Gov. Cox’s Inaugural Address
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In his inaugural address, Gov. Cox shared reflections on his first term, the importance of community and family in Utah's success and the guiding values for the next four years — he also shared some old photos that made us all appreciate just how far we've come as a state, in achievement and in fashion.
Watch the recording > ([link removed])


** Utah’s Spirit of Service

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Gov. Cox has once again emphasized that service will remain a top priority for Utah in the coming years. By the end of 2029, the state plans to double the number of youth and young adults participating in service through Volunteer for Good and the One Utah Service Fellowship — programs designed to engage the next generation in making a lasting impact on their communities.

Looking back on inauguration week, one of the most meaningful moments was the opportunity for Governor Cox, his team, and many Utahns to come together with friends, family and neighbors to give back. Volunteers joined forces with the Sanpete Pantry and the Utah Food Bank to pack and distribute food to families in need.

While the inauguration itself was significant, it was these acts of service that truly highlighted what makes Utah so special. Utahns have long been known for their selflessness and willingness to serve others, and this week served as a powerful reminder of that enduring spirit.


** Lt. Gov. Henderson’s Inaugural Address: Embracing the Power of "And”
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Alongside Gov. Cox, Lt. Gov. Henderson was sworn in for a second term as Utah’s 9th lieutenant governor this week. In her inaugural address, she emphasized the power of the “and” mentality, saying:

“As we face new challenges, we will build on the strong foundation we’ve inherited. We will continue to embrace the ‘and.’ We can experience high population growth and maintain a high quality of life. We can address housing demands and allow cities and towns to preserve the autonomy that makes them unique. We can uphold public safety and demonstrate the compassion that defines our state. We can welcome refugees and new Americans and support meaningful immigration reform. Finally, under the leadership of Governor Cox, we can disagree with someone and still show them respect.”


** Gov. Cox Signs Executive Order to Streamline Permitting
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To ensure Utah remains a leader in economic strength, quality of life and innovation, Gov. Cox signed an executive order this week to streamline the permitting process, reduce regulatory burdens and empower Utahns to build the infrastructure shaping the state’s future. The order directs the Utah Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) and the Division of Oil, Gas and Mining (DOGM) to enhance permitting procedures, enabling projects to move forward while upholding high environmental standards.

This initiative is part of Gov. Cox’s broader effort to foster a culture of building — whether in infrastructure, housing, or community. As he emphasized, “If we want a future where the American Dream is available for the next generation, we must be builders: one family, one neighborhood and one community at a time.”
Watch the video > ([link removed])


** Deer Valley Grand Hyatt: A Win for Utah’s Tourism and Veterans
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Lt. Gov. Henderson attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Deer Valley Grand Hyatt, a stunning addition to Utah's recreation and tourism industry. This new property not only offers a luxurious destination for visitors, but it also holds special significance for our military service members and veterans, with 100 rooms reserved for the military’s Morale, Welfare and Recreation program. We are deeply grateful to all the partners who helped bring this meaningful project to life.


** Agency updates
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Jacob Chesley, who has cerebral palsy, became the first to cross a new pedestrian bridge over Bangerter Highway in South Jordan. Part of UDOT's efforts to modernize Bangerter, the bridge improves safety and accessibility for nearby schools and neighborhoods. Watch > ([link removed])
people standing in a cave

A team of scientists from the Utah Division of State Parks and the USDA Forest Service Ashley National Forest, along with a group of Utah cavers, have recovered the nearly complete skeleton of a red fox dating back to the Ice Ages in a cave in the Uinta Mountains.

Riley Peck has been appointed director of the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. A resident of Eagle Mountain, he joined the division in 2006 as a native aquatics technician, later serving as a wildlife biologist, Central Region manager and legislative liaison since 2019.

The Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation invites the public to the Every Kid Outdoors ([link removed]) (EKO) Adventure Challenge kickoff on Jan. 24, from 2-5 p.m. at Millcreek Common. The free event includes ice skating, scavenger hunts, activities and prizes. Click here ([link removed]) to register.

At Price’s Peerless Port of Entry, UDOT motor carrier specialists inspect semi-trucks for weight, size and condition to protect Utah’s roads. They build strong relationships with truck drivers, focusing on speed, precision and collaboration to ensure safe, efficient travel. Watch > ([link removed])

Utah received $2.75 million from the USDA for two Forest Legacy Projects ([link removed]) to preserve 379 acres in Kane County bordering Zion National Park. The projects will protect hiking and biking trails connecting to over 86 miles of park trails.

Inspire In Utah invites Utah companies to apply for the 100 Companies Championing Women ([link removed]) 2025 cohort. Selected companies will be featured on @allinutah social media and the inutah.org website. Past honorees need not reapply.
a man handing a woman a bucket of food from a table full of cups

In an effort to enhance fishing and boost native fish populations, the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources stocks a variety of fish ([link removed]) species throughout Utah every year. And in 2024, over 12.8 million fish were stocked into waterbodies across the state.

The Uinta Basin Railway Project case was heard by the Supreme Court, which has until June to issue a decision. SCIC is proactively preparing for the next steps to ensure there are no delays in advancing the project once a decision is made.
a pen sitting on top of a piece of paper

The Utah Board of Pardons and Parole recently hosted survivors and advocates to discuss updates to its victim notification process ([link removed]) . The event aimed to create a trauma-informed system for timely, reliable updates via email and text messaging.

Starting on Jan. 1, the Utah DMV enhanced services to reduce wait times, mailing plates and requiring only one plate (back) for most vehicles. New plates feature flat-screen printing, a combined decal and a barcode. Click here ([link removed]) to update your address.

This week, the Department of Corrections introduced a new mailing process ([link removed]) to prevent contraband from entering prison facilities, enhancing safety while allowing incarcerated individuals to maintain timely correspondence with loved ones.

The Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity has launched Community Data Profiles ([link removed]) to help communities market themselves to site selectors and identify competitive advantages. The reports offer in-depth analysis of Utah’s and its 29 counties to support informed decision-making.


** 🗞️ ICYMI
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🏜️ Gov. Cox and fellow Governors urge the swift confirmation of Gov. Doug Burgum as Secretary of the Interior. Read more > ([link removed])

🎂 Utah celebrated its 129th birthday! See more > ([link removed])

⛪️ Gov. Cox kicks off inaugural week with a celebration of community, faith and civility in Utah. Learn more > ([link removed])

📱 TikTok knew its livestreaming feature allowed child exploitation, state of Utah lawsuit alleges. Read more > ([link removed])

📖 Gov. Cox joined Lt. Gov. Henderson, Attorney General Derek Brown, Treasurer Marlo Oaks and Auditor Tina Cannon in taking the oath of office in a ceremony with family. Watch > ([link removed])

🏛️ This week the House Majority unveiled a package of bills to support our communities and tackle the public safety impacts of the Southern Border crisis. Read more > ([link removed])

🚨 Gov. Cox calls on Trump administration to remove ICE obstacles to deportations. Read more > ([link removed])

🏡 Utah is pushing deregulation and free-market policies to build more housing and create more homeowners. Read more > ([link removed])

🚒 Utah firefighters head to Southern California to help with wildfires. Read more > ([link removed])

🇺🇸 Gov. Cox wants state taxes on Social Security eliminated this session. Read more > ([link removed])

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