Gov. Herbert to deliver 2020 State of the State address
What: Gov. Gary R. Herbert will outline key public policy priorities for the upcoming legislative session during his 2020 State of the State address.
When: Wednesday, Jan. 29 at 6:30 p.m.
Where: Utah State Capitol, House Chamber
Notes: A pool video feed will be provided through KTVX. Pool photography will be provided by the Salt Lake Tribune. Seating is available for capitol-credentialed reporters in the media section of the House gallery on a first-come, first-served basis.
Embargoed hard copies of the remarks will be available to capitol-credentialed reporters in the Governor’s Office (Utah State Capitol, Suite 200) on Wed., Jan. 29 beginning at 5:00 p.m. The remarks are embargoed until 7:00 p.m.
The full text of the address will be released at https://governor.utah.gov/ at 7:00 p.m.
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No one gives a heartfelt hug like a grandmother, but these days more and more grandmas (and grandpas) are feeling alone and isolated, because they may be either widowed or do not have any relatives nearby who can help them navigate the stages of aging.
So, just in time for Valentine’s Day, we invite you to tag along as Visiting Angels, a national in home care provider with a local office, sends designated huggers to the local homes of seniors to surprise them with a warm embrace.
Visiting Angels “Designated Hugger for Valentine’s Day.” (click here for image)
The week of Valentine’s Day (February 10 – February 14) is a great time to spread the love about the benefits of a simple hug. We invite you to head out with Visiting Angels as its designated huggers hit the road to surprise local seniors throughout the week.
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American Lung Association ‘State of Tobacco Control’ Report Highlights Opportunity for Utah to Prioritize Public Health over the Tobacco Industry
Utah earns F in Tobacco Taxes, Lung Association calls on state officials to pass a tobacco tax in 2020 to end tobacco use, youth vaping epidemic and save lives
SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH [January 29, 2020] – Tobacco use remains the nation’s leading cause of preventable death and disease, taking an estimated 480,000 lives every year. This year’s “State of Tobacco Control” report from the American Lung Association calls for proven tobacco control policies in light of the fact that the country’s youth vaping epidemic worsened in 2019. This dire situation is a result of states and the federal government’s failure to enact policies called for in the report such as increased tobacco taxes and stronger federal oversight of tobacco products, including e-cigarettes. This year’s 18th annual report finds that in 2019 Utah had mixed grades on its efforts to reduce and prevent tobacco use, including e-cigarettes. The American Lung Association finds opportunities in 2020 for Utah officials to take action and pass a law to increase cigarette taxes and equalize the tax on other tobacco products, including e-cigarettes with its cigarette tax an increase on tobacco taxes on tobacco products in order to support public health and save lives in 2020.
The need for Utah to take action to protect youth from all tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, is more urgent than ever, with the youth vaping epidemic continuing its alarming rise to 27.5% or more than one in four high school students. This is a staggering 135% increase in high school e-cigarette use in just the past two years, and close to three million more kids started vaping in that time period, setting them up for a lifetime of addiction.
“In Utah, our tobacco use rates remain at 15%. Sadly, with the youth vaping epidemic still rising, we may have lost an opportunity to make the current generation of kids the first tobacco-free generation. Tobacco use is a serious addiction and Utah needs to implement the proven measures to prevent and reduce tobacco use outlined in ‘State of Tobacco Control,’” said JoAnna Strother, senior director of advocacy for the American Lung Association in Utah.
The 18th annual “State of Tobacco Control” report grades states and the federal government on policies proven to prevent and reduce tobacco use, and finds that elected officials should do more to save lives and ensure all Utah residents benefit from reductions in tobacco use and exposure to secondhand smoke.
Utah’s Grades:
The American Lung Association encourages Utah to put in place all the public policies called for in “State of Tobacco Control,” and in particular, this year’s report notes the need to focus on increasing tobacco taxes. One of the most effective ways to reduce tobacco use, not only among low-income individuals but also for youth is to significantly increase the tax on all tobacco products, including e-cigarettes. Multiple studies have shown that every 10 percent increase in the price of cigarettes reduces consumption by about four percent among adults and about seven percent among youth. “To protect kids from a lifetime of nicotine addiction, the Lung Association in Utah encourages Utah to increase cigarette taxes and equalize the tax on other tobacco products, including e-cigarettes with its cigarette tax. These steps are critical to Utah as current tobacco use, including vaping, among youth is 9.7% said Strother.
One powerful tool to address the youth vaping epidemic is increasing the minimum age of sale for tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, to 21. The U.S. Congress finished off 2019 with a huge victory passing a federal law to increase the national tobacco sales age to 21. This law will ensure that all states have a sales age of 21 in 2020. In 2019, Utah was one of the 13 states that moved forward with increasing the tobacco sales age to 21 this year. However, the legislation leaves in place the purchase and possession penalties on minors and extends those penalties to those who are 19 and 20. The legislation also included preemption on increasing the age of sale above 21, and provision that waives penalties for purchase and possession of tobacco products for active duty military, provisions that the federal law doesn’t include.
However, Congress failed to pass legislation to eliminate all flavored tobacco products, making the need for state action to end the sale of all flavored products critical. Massachusetts took that historic step by prohibiting the sale of all flavored tobacco products, including menthol cigarettes in November 2019, becoming the first such state to do so. The Lung Association urges more states to follow Massachusetts’ lead and pass comprehensive laws eliminating flavored tobacco products in 2020.
“State of Tobacco Control” 2020 provides an important roadmap on how states like Utah and the federal government can put in place the policies proven to have the greatest impact on reducing tobacco use and exposure to secondhand smoke. Now is the time for lawmakers in Utah end their failure to act and take this opportunity to achieve lasting reductions in tobacco-related death and disease,” said Strother.
The question remains, will 2020 be the year that public health is prioritized over tobacco product manufacturers so that another generation is spared the addiction to dangerous tobacco products? As the result of successful lawsuits filed by the American Lung Association and several public health partners, FDA will be required to take several important and long overdue actions to protect the public health from tobacco products in 2020. These include finalizing graphic warning labels on all cigarette packs by March 15, and requiring all e-cigarette, and most cigar, hookah, pipe and other manufacturers of deemed products to submit applications to FDA by May 12, 2020 to remain on the market in the U.S.
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For media interested in speaking with an expert about the “State of Tobacco Control” report, lung health, tobacco use and tobacco control policies, contact the American Lung Association at Bo.Smith@Lung.org or 310-359-6386.
About the American Lung Association
The American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease, through research, education and advocacy. The work of the American Lung Association is focused on four strategic imperatives: to defeat lung cancer; to improve the air we breathe; to reduce the burden of lung disease on individuals and their families; and to eliminate tobacco use and tobacco-related diseases. For more information about the American Lung Association, a holder of the coveted 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and a Gold-Level GuideStar Member, or to support the work it does, call 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872) or visit: Lung.org.
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With couples spending an average of over $38,000 on their wedding and the industry bringing in $78 billion in revenue in 2019, the personal-finance website WalletHub today released its report on 2020’s Best Places to Get Married as well as accompanying videos.
To help couples find the most wedding-friendly destinations, WalletHub compared more than 180 of the biggest U.S. cities across 27 key indicators of cost-effectiveness, convenience and enjoyment. The data set ranges from average wedding cost to venues and event spaces per capita to weather.
Best Places to Get Married in the U.S.
1. Orlando, FL
11. Mobile, AL
2. Las Vegas, NV
12. Tucson, AZ
3. El Paso, TX
13. Birmingham, AL
4. Atlanta, GA
14. Albuquerque, NM
5. Miami, FL
15. New Orleans, LA
6. Tampa, FL
16. Cincinnati, OH
7. Tulsa, OK
17. Los Angeles, CA
8. Boise, ID
18. Chattanooga, TN
9. Las Cruces, NM
19. Scottsdale, AZ
10. Austin, TX
20. Oklahoma City, OK
Best vs. Worst
To view the full report and your city’s rank, please visit:
https://wallethub.com/edu/best-places-to-get-married/18721/
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Jan. 28, 2020
Sen. Lee Statement on President’s Middle East Peace Plan
WASHINGTON – Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT) issued the following statement Tuesday after reviewing President Trump’s Vision for Peace, Prosperity, and a Brighter Future for Israel and the Palestinian People:
“President Trump’s Middle East peace proposal provides a bold new direction towards a better future in the Middle East. This diplomatic effort lays out a clear blueprint to achieve strong relations between Israel and its neighbors and to bring an end to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.”
An online version of this release can be found here.
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ASSE International, a non-profit student exchange program, is seeking volunteers to serve as Area Representatives in your local community. ASSE offers qualified students from around the world, between the age of 15 and 18, the opportunity to spend a high school year or semester in the United States with a host family. The opportunity to study abroad and live with a host family is also offered to our American high school students between 15-18 years old. ASSE’s Area Representatives are the cornerstone of the organization, making all of this possible!
Area Representatives recruit and screen potential host families, supervise the exchange students in their community, organize activities with the students throughout the year and provide support to host families, students and schools. Area representatives receive compensation covering their expenses incurred for each student placed and supervised.
Imagine the world of peace and greater understanding. Imagine yourself as part of the solution! Today’s teens are tomorrow’s parents, international business people and possibly even future political leaders! Share your corner of America by helping a foreign teen experience life in your area!
For more information call 800-733-2773, visit us online at www.asse.com or email asseusawest@asse.com.
Founded by the Swedish National Department of Education, ASSE International (formerly American Scandinavian Student Exchange) is a non-profit, tax-exempt, public benefit organization. ASSE is officially designated as an exchange visitor program by the United States Department of State and cooperates with the Canadian Provincial Ministries of Education.
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Save Minor League Baseball Task Force Co-Chairs Trahan, McKinley, Rose, and Simpson Lead Introduction of Congressional Resolution Supporting Minor League Baseball
WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Representatives Lori Trahan (D-MA), David McKinley (R-WV), Max Rose (D-NY), and Mike Simpson (R-NY) – co-chairs of the Save Minor League Baseball Task Force -- introduced a bipartisan resolution expressing the sense of Congress that Major League Baseball (MLB) should maintain the current minor league structure rather than proceed with its plan to eliminate 42 minor league clubs.
“We launched the Save Minor League Baseball Task Force for a simple purpose -- to help ensure a level playing field in the negotiations between MLB and Minor League Baseball so that they yield a fair resolution and protect minor league baseball in communities across the country. Congress has long been a partner to the league in protecting and expanding America’s favorite pastime. We deserve to have our voices heard in any conversation with such potentially devastating consequences. This resolution makes our position clear, and I am grateful to my fellow co-chairs and colleagues for their continued support of this effort,” said Congresswoman Trahan.
“Minor League Baseball teams have had a major impact on small communities. These teams provide an enormous cultural and economic benefit to the communities they call home,” Congressman McKinley said. “The goal of our involvement in this fight is to ensure a level playing field in the negotiations between Major League Baseball (MLB) and MiLB. Doing away with 42 teams is not a reasonable solution. We are hopeful that MiLB and MLB can find a compromise that will preserve the 42 MiLB teams and address MLB’s concerns.”
“The value that Minor League Baseball adds to our communities goes so far beyond entertainment,” Congressman Max Rose said. “Teams like the Staten Island Yankees offer youth clinics for our kids, donate to local schools and charities, and volunteer countless hours to help those in need. This resolution sends a clear message that we recognize those contributions, and that I’m going to do everything in my power to protect the Staten Island Yankees.
“Minor League Baseball is at the heart of small towns all across rural America,” said Congressman Simpson. “The proposal to cut 42 teams will leave communities like Idaho Falls without affordable and accessible options for families to experience America’s pastime. I am pleased to join my colleagues in introducing this resolution which expresses more than 60 Members of Congress opposition towards eliminating the Chukars and other minor league organizations. I hope Major League Baseball takes the concerns of fans in small-town America seriously when considering the current proposal.”
“The proposal to eliminate our Norwich Sea Unicorns and 41 other Minor League teams across the country is a profound mistake,” said Congressman Courtney. “Countless baseball fans of all ages attend MiLB games each season, and for many, it’s their only chance to see our nation’s pastime in a family-friendly, affordable atmosphere. There have been well over half a million statistical errors committed in the MLB since its founding in 1896, but this plan to do away with a quarter of all our Minor League teams ranks among the worst of them – it will cost American communities jobs, and more importantly it will cost us in quality of life. The House is leading the charge to protect our Minor League Baseball teams, and I’m proud to be part of this bipartisan effort. MLB Commissioner Manfred and his team need to take a hard second look at their proposal, and consider what it could mean for the long-term support that Congress has always afforded to the MLB on a variety of issues.”
“The Mahoning Valley Scrappers are a pillar of our community and provide an affordable and fun way for families to spend time together. These Minor League teams are an integral part of American baseball. Not only do they offer a pipeline to the MLB, they stand as a cultural cornerstone in communities like mine,” said Congressman Tim Ryan. “I’m 100% with the Scrappers because I know that in the Mahoning Valley, the best days for America’s pastime are yet to come.”
“Minor league baseball provides so much to our local communities, bringing family friendly entertainment, job opportunities and a significant economic impact to every city a team calls home. The impact of the Lexington Legends is no exception,” said Congressman Andy Barr. “The 2019 South Atlantic League Champion Legends bring an average economic impact of $47.2 million per year to my community, and in addition, donate an average of $1 million locally. I am committed to doing what I can to support the Legends and ensure that they stay in Lexington for years to come.”
“With 5 teams in our region, perhaps no area in America would be more affected by the proposed restructuring of minor league baseball than East Tennessee. Baseball is an integral part of so many communities, and a significant source of community pride and entertainment. I will do everything I can to ensure America’s pastime is preserved for generations to come across East Tennessee. That is why I am proud to join my colleagues in introducing a bipartisan resolution to help preserve Minor League Baseball in 160 communities across the nation,” said Congressman Phil Roe.
“Michigan families love spending their summers outside watching baseball and our minor league teams have fans throughout the state. It is my hope that Major League Baseball and its minor league affiliates reach an agreement that is good for teams in Michigan and across the nation,” said Congressman Moolenaar.
“The proposal by Major League Baseball to eliminate minor league teams, like New York’s Binghamton Rumble Ponies, is a big swing and a miss. Minor league baseball and the
communities that support it are part of the fabric of America and its favorite pastime. I joined my colleagues, from both parties, to call on Major League Baseball to work with Minor League Baseball and preserve affordable, family friendly fun. As a lifelong baseball fan and New Yorker, I am not going to sit on the bench in this fight. We need to keep the Rumble Ponies in Binghamton and help save minor league baseball,” said Congressman Anthony Brindisi.
“Minor League Baseball teams are a crucial part of America’s pastime, and they provide affordable entertainment options for working families across our country. Major League Baseball’s plan to cut ties with 42 minor league teams, including Erie’s beloved SeaWolves, would be devastating to millions of baseball loving Americans. I am a proud co-sponsor of this resolution that urges MLB to reconsider. It would be tragic to lose these teams,” said Congressman Mike Kelly.
“Minor League Baseball is most appreciative of the bipartisan support we have received from so many members of Congress. The resolution introduced today shows the widespread support for Minor League Baseball and we thank representatives McKinley, Rose, Simpson and Trahan for leading the charge in support of Minor League Baseball,” said Pat O’Conner, President, MiLB.
On November 19, 2019, more than 100 members of Congress joined together on a letter to MLB expressing our unified opposition to the MLB plan. This resolution is a further demonstration that minor league clubs – and the communities for which they play – are not without support in Congress. Furthermore, it reflects Congress’s legitimate interest in ensuring fair negotiations between MLB and MiLB.
MLB’s plan was offered in spite of the fact that Minor League Baseball (MiLB) just completed its 15th consecutive season with an attendance above 40 million; and it was the ninth-largest single season total in MiLB’s 100-plus year history. Many of the Minor League clubs would fail without a PDC—leaving as many as 1,200 players out of work. The plan is a betrayal of the fans, players, municipalities, stadium vendors and employees who have supported these clubs for decades.
Text of the resolution can be found HERE and below:
RESOLUTION Supporting Minor League Baseball, and for other purposes. Whereas 40 million plus fans have attended Minor League Baseball games each season for 15 consecutive years; Whereas Minor League Baseball provides wholesome affordable entertainment in 160 communities throughout the country; Whereas, in 2018, Minor League Baseball clubs donated over $45 million in cash and in-kind gifts to their local communities and completed over 15,000 volunteer hours; Whereas the economic stimulus and development provided by Minor League Baseball clubs extends beyond the cities and towns where it is played, to wide and diverse geographic areas comprising 80 percent of the population in the Nation; Whereas Minor League Baseball is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion through its Copa de la Diversio´n, MiLB Pride, FIELD Program, and Women in Baseball Leadership initiatives; Whereas Minor League Baseball is the first touchpoint of the national pastime for millions of youth and the only touchpoint for those located in communities far from Major League cities;
Whereas Congress has enacted numerous statutory exemptions and immunities to preserve and sustain a system for Minor League Baseball and its relationship with Major League Baseball; Whereas abandonment of 42 Minor League Baseball clubs by Major League Baseball would devastate communities, bond purchasers, and other stakeholders that rely on the economic stimulus these clubs provide; Whereas Minor League Baseball clubs enrich the lives of millions of Americans each year through special economic, social, cultural, and charitable contributions; and Whereas preservation of Minor League Baseball in 160 communities is in the public interest, as it will continue to provide affordable, family friendly entertainment to those communities:
Now, therefore, be it Resolved,
That the House of Representatives— (1) supports the preservation of Minor League Baseball in 160 American communities; (2) recognizes the unique social, economic, and historic contributions that Minor League Baseball has made to American life and culture; and (3) encourages continuation of the 117-year foundation of the Minor Leagues in 160 communities through continued affiliations with Major League Baseball.
Original co-sponsors (co-leads bolded): Representatives Axne, Banks, Barr, Bishop, Blunt Rochester, Bonamici, Brindisi, Brown, Budd, Burchett, Cisneros, Cline, Comer, Courtney, Cunningham, DeFazio, Escobar, Finkenauer, Fitzpatrick, Fleischmann, Fudge, Gianforte, Griffith, Guthrie, Haaland, Higgins, Horsford, Joyce (OH), Kaptur, Katko, Keating, Keller, Kelly, Kennedy, Lamborn, Larsen, Loebsack, Lynch, Matsui, McCollum, McKinley, Miller, Moolenaar, Morelle, Moulton, Newhouse, Pocan, Price, Raskin, Riggleman, Roe, Rogers, Rose, Ryan, Schrader, Serrano, Simpson, Slotkin, Thompson, Tipton, Trahan, Trone, Turner, Underwood, Wasserman Schultz, and Welch.
