New vision in Utah's old statehouse
Huntsman outlines his 4 fundamentals in address
|
More than 150 lawmakers, state officials and others gathered in the stately stone building for the half-hour speech that touched on economic revitalization, education, quality of life and governance.
"My position on this is clear: B and C waste will not be dumped in Utah," the governor said, adding that by the time the session is over, "we should no longer be discussing the possibility" of the hotter waste coming to Utah.
Huntsman emphasized economic development, just as he did during his campaign. "When it comes to economic development, treading water will not be acceptable in my administration," he said.
Tax reform, the governor said, will create "an environment of opportunity" that will help raise Utah wages. He reiterated his call for a change in the formula used to calculate corporate income taxes, eventually eliminating them altogether.
"The last time we had a major revision in the tax code was 1959 — before I was born," the 44-year-old leader said. "It is time for a change."
Also on his agenda is raising the salaries of schoolteachers and state workers. Elementary school teachers would also receive an additional $300 for classroom supplies, Huntsman said.
Ethics reform — at least for the executive branch — also earned a place in the speech. That includes full disclosure, campaign-finance reform and a mandatory, one-year cooling-off period before the governor's appointees can become lobbyists.
The only prop Huntsman relied on was a laminated card listing his priorities. "Each one of these priorities has purpose in helping shape our tomorrow, each a reminder of our common destiny."
CommentsRelated content
As more and more dads are put out of work in this economy, I've been... 
The photographs are mysterious, brooding, dark. They show dimples and...   Latest comments It should come as no surprise that American and British casualties have... Millsap will be an average player in Portland. Roy runs that team and the... I had to re-read the article after reading these posts. I didn't read... Many people obviously love Brother Pratt, but my heart goes out to his... Why does inacceptable behavior become justifiable under the guise of... I hope I am not speaking too quickly, but in the about ten comments I have... It is ZION for your information---- for now anyway. Secede?? Why should we... We could pull out of this recession by extending the Bush tax cuts that are... | 9:21 a.m. July 10, 2009 I'm not surprised to hear that Sen Bennett is... It ain't over till the fat lady gets the red dress.
Advertisements
|
You can be the first to comment on this story.