This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2016, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.

At the conclusion of each legislative session, it is interesting to observe the barrage of criticism leveled at our elected representatives by the public and the press. While members of the press bemoan the "traditional results," we would do well to acquaint ourselves with additional facts.

First, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures, our Utah Legislature is among only a handful in the nation to be classified as "traditional" or "citizen" legislatures — six to be exact — with the lowest pay, smallest staffs and part-time legislative responsibilities that extend year-round.

Takeaway: Utah legislators don't do it for the money.

While they are paid a small daily stipend and receive limited health care benefits, our representatives in the House and Senate are essentially volunteers. The majority of our representatives use vacation hours or take time off without pay to serve their constituents. Taking two months out of your life to serve in the Utah legislature isn't easy. Many have served with considerable personal sacrifice. Rep. Mike Noel lost his wife suddenly in January, just a week before the session, and he continued to serve. Several legislators have parents who were dying or have passed away while the Legislature has been in session. These legislators carry on. One senator, Dennis Stowell, was himself dying of cancer during the 2012 session. He passed away within weeks of the session ending.

What motivates them? Fame or fanfare? There is little of that as a state legislator. The vast majority do not go on to higher office. Those who try usually lose. As part of their legislative duties, they are called on to vote over a thousand times in a 45-day window. In the process, they are sure to alienate almost everyone with one vote or another.

Our legislators balance a budget every year and have helped keep Utah's balance sheet in the black. They tackle tough issues — even the unpopular ones. Though they may not make full headway, to their credit, they are bold enough to try.

If we are concerned about the actions or lack of action by our Legislature, we bare a responsibility to become sufficiently engaged in the political process, to communicate directly about the concerns that matter to us and to our great state.

Service as a state legislator is a thankless job. At the close of the 2016 legislative session, I express my appreciation to all who serve.

Sean Slatter is CEO of LSI in Layton and owner of Alamexo Mexican Kitchen in Salt Lake City.