Give thanks to part-time Legislature

In theory, part-time lawmakers don't lose touch with the people because they live and work among them in various pursuits during most of the year. In Utah, lawmakers are criticized for passing bills that help their own private businesses. They are rightly accused of cozying up to lobbyists who woo them with gifts and trips, earning access denied to average citizens. But these are relatively small problems compared to how out of touch they would become if their only paycheck came from the state Capitol.

Those part-time lawmakers will have a full plate tomorrow. Among other things, they will deal with immigration issues, health care reform, the challenge of funding an effective public education system and decisions about whether to reform parts of the tax system. And unlike Congress, they will have to balance the budget before it's all over.

As quickly as this state is growing (the population grew by 10 per hour last year), Utah may not have a part-time Legislature for long. It would be a shame to lose it — a shame that might lead to more angry petitions to overturn laws.

In the meantime, those of you cringing beneath your blankets at home ought to come out and get more involved in this messy, but wonderful, way to govern. At the very least, you should join me in giving thanks ahead of time to those who have taken a part-time job that attracts as many rotten eggs as it does perks. They deserve admiration, as well as critical scrutiny.

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Jay Evensen is editor of the Deseret Morning News editorial page. E-mail: even@desnews.com