The Utah business community released its priorities for the upcoming General Legislative Session, presenting the 2013 Public Policy Guide to the speaker of the House of Representatives, Becky Lockhart. The guide outlines the Chamber’s position on issues including economic development, education, transportation, health reform, energy, clean air, immigration, Downtown Rising and international business.
Prosperity 2020: Enhancing innovation, accountability and investment in education is a top priority for the business community. As a strong supporter of the Prosperity 2020 movement, the Chamber outlines strategic innovations and investments to ensure 66 percent of Utah adults have a college degree or postsecondary certification by the end of the decade. Business leaders support investing in capacity in Utah’s institutions of higher learning for high-growth, high-wage degrees—notably STEM and health professions.
The guide also outlines a recommendation to improve public education including computer adaptive testing, early intervention and programs for children at risk. Investment in the Utah College of Applied Technology (UCAT) is critical if Utah is to reach the 66 percent goal. The guide outlines support for increasing UCAT’s output.
Transportation: Utah has invested wisely in its mobility infrastructure and the business community is championing a strategy to preserve and maintain its substantial transportation investment. Every dollar spent on preserving roads saves six dollars in rehabilitation costs and $10 in reconstruction costs.
Regulation: Regulatory burdens continue to hinder economic growth. The Chamber has sharpened its focus on cultivating a regulatory environment for business to thrive while maintaining a level playing field to boost healthy competition.
Businesses with fewer than 20 employees incur regulatory costs 42 percent higher than larger businesses of up to 500 employees. The average regulatory costs for each employee of a small business exceed $10,000 per year. Utah Policy
