I am amazed at the hypocrisy in some of our Republican lawmakers. They say one thing and do another. In 2019, the Legislature commissioned The Utah Roadmap by the Kem Gardner Institute but has done little to implement the data-driven suggestions to improve our environmental impact. Lawmakers slashed funds for increased public transportation options. Rather than support green investments, Utah approved more money to expand the Inland Port, even though there is proof it will increase air pollution, traffic and health issues. Based on other ports, more young children will have asthma and learning problems, more women will most likely have premature births, and health costs will increase.
Lawmakers stress the lack of health care professionals but do nothing to support funding for them. An average doctor leaves school with over $300,000 in debt. Loans for these potential students would provide a better quality of life than subsidies for polluting businesses. Utah’s tourism supplies a healthy portion of the state’s income. Yet, poor air quality and disregard for our natural wonders will make people think twice about visiting Utah.
This year the state has a budget surplus. If our leaders practiced what they preached, they would support increased public transportation options, defund and repeal the port, invest in green strategies and research to supply good-paying jobs and provide loans for medical students. If our elected officials actually spent money on the things they pretend to believe in, Utah could be a leader in expanding business while protecting the health of the people in our state.
Patricia Becnel, Ogden