“I feel like transparency is deserved across all branches of government. This bill came from frustration over not being able to easily access rulings and outcomes related to house judges are ruling in the state. We have a real opportunity to lead out with working on finding solutions that will show collaboration and transparency. ”

“About ten years ago, the Sentencing Commission pulled back on some jail and prison recommendations. Since then many Utahns have raised concerns about serious offenders receiving little or no incarceration. I’m bringing this bill forward to refocus our guidelines on public safety and victim protection. This bill gives judges and the Sentencing Commission clearer direction on what to consider, while still preserving judicial discretion in every case.”

“I’ve seen growing distrust from the public toward the judicial branch. People watch their elected officials debate, vote, and pass laws, only to see those laws immediately challenged, put on hold, and sit in limbo for years with no resolution. That creates confusion and feeds the public’s perception that policy decisions are being stalled without accountability. This bill is meant to create a faster and more predictable process for handling constitutional challenges that impact the entire state, while still respecting judicial independence.”