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Want a strong recovery? Lay groundwork for vaccine distribution now
If Utah policymakers take action today to prepare for a COVID-19 vaccine – whenever it is found to be safe and effective – they will prime Utah for a strong and sustainable economic and public health recovery from the pandemic.
How did U.S. get to the point where religious services are ‘nonessential’?
There appear to be three factors at work: a decline in formal legal protection of religious freedom; an increase in general regulations that impact religious practice; and a decline in religiosity among Americans generally.
Utah Education Debate Coalition presents 2020 debate series
The members of the Utah State Board of Education make critical decisions regarding the direction of education in our state.
New polling shows pandemic could bring increase in home schooling
A recent national poll from the American Federation for Children conducted by RealClear Opinion Research shows that 40 percent of families say they are more likely to home-school or enroll in virtual schools even after the lockdowns end.
Show grace and understanding to others amid fear and pain
In such a unique, life-changing moment like the one we are living right now, Utahns – and history – should be quick to extend grace, rather than condemnation, toward both fellow Utahns and elected leaders.
Why has religious freedom become a hot-button issue?
Those who are concerned about the creeping intolerance of many government bodies on questions of life and family should not hesitate to make these arguments even if they are not well received in the short run.
Looking back: School reforms for COVID-19 point us to successful ed reformers in American history
State education leaders are looking toward adaptations in the upcoming school year due to the pandemic (as local news has recently highlighted). Proposed public school reforms have both positives and negatives. The government’s response to the novel coronavirus...
Sutherland Institute urges Utah delegation to support FLEX Act
Sutherland encourages all members of Utah’s delegation to analyze this critical legislation, which is already supported by a wide bipartisan coalition and several members of Congress.
Remove barriers for flexible use of COVID-19 relief funds
The downturn driving Utah’s budget shortfall has been caused by the pandemic, so common sense would argue that states should have great flexibility to address pandemic tax revenue impacts with CARES Act funding. But that’s not the case.
Courts siding with worshipers on overly strict pandemic directives
Fifty percent of Americans feel their freedoms have been negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, according to new research from State Policy Network conducted by Heart + Mind Strategies.
6 ways the COVID-19 era might change the 2020-21 school year
In a system where change can be inordinately difficult due to multi-layered administration and interest group politics, Utah’s education leaders should be commended for being forward-thinking about the need to change and adapt to the current realities schools face.
The economy seems to be falling off a cliff. Is America’s commitment to religion doing the same?
The report provides careful and detailed analysis on the decline of “religiosity” – measured by affiliation with churches, church attendance, and other factors – in the United States.
The Founders’ vision: ‘What species of knowledge can be equally important?’
The hope of education as a tool to sustain the republic, like so many of the Founders’ aspirations, remains a lofty goal. The aspiration of civic education shared by the Founders creates a measuring stick for public school civics standards today.
Colleges wrestle with questions of reopening
The shuttering of universities has been predicted by some scholars for a while now due to changes to society, technological advances and flexibility in employment. But now, the individual choices being made in response to the coronavirus have accelerated this process.
War and consequences: U.S. embraces its ideals of religious freedom
During a massive conflict with the Nazi government in Germany (which practiced state-enforced oppression and prejudice), the United States began to embrace its own religious traditions of openness, tolerance and freedom.
Meet the nuns behind the Supreme Court case
Whether we as individuals identify as religious or not, we are all better off because the Little Sisters of the Poor do what they do. There is nothing wrong with crafting our laws and court decisions in recognition of that fact
Teacher Appreciation Week 2020 brings a new resonance
Teacher Appreciation Week is a well-deserved moment of reflection on the important work that educators do – but it’s especially important this year. To educators across the nation, happy Teacher Appreciation Week.
Quick economic recovery is possible, but mounting evidence suggests it’s unlikely
While a quick recovery is possible, the evidence for a slower economic rebound in Utah is mounting.
Education and the 4th special session: what we learned
Let’s move forward on the assumption of common ground. There is still plenty of work to be done in offering students fairness though educational options.
Operation Warp Speed: Utah lawmakers need to look at vaccine reforms now
If a safe and effective vaccine is developed in 2020, we should all want our state vaccine policies and regulations primed and ready to encourage the quickest and broadest possible public access to the vaccine – especially given how fast the novel coronavirus spreads.
Pandemic is a stress test for government and society
Much of what we are learning through the pandemic experience can be positive, but we must also let these kinds of lessons sink in and change how the government functions going forward.
Pandemic budget losses are painful but offer opportunity
The pandemic is revealing that there may be ways to increase the return on investment of state tax dollars, especially in big-ticket areas like education, transportation and building construction.
Is innovation at heart of Utah’s top-ranked schools?
Why is it that charter schools tend to do so well? Perhaps it’s because they have the space to innovate, try new things, and find what works versus what doesn’t.
Harvard law professor seeking to ban homeschooling should celebrate educational diversity, not attack it
By extending the reach of freedom and opportunity for individuals and families, we illustrate what it is that truly makes America great.
Sutherland Institute applauds the compromise special needs scholarship bill
Students with an individualized education program (IEP) will now have the opportunity to purchase a range of educational options outside of just school tuition that meet their unique needs, including textbooks, therapies, fees, supplemental materials, and more.
Pastors being arrested. Mayors shutting down churches. What does the law say about all of this?
In the fluid pandemic situation, religious freedom is being tossed around both as an excuse for continuing public gatherings and as a focus of derision from those who are using the crisis to argue that religious people are the problem.
Sutherland signs coalition letter urging expansion of 529s (education savings accounts) for COVID-19 home learning
Congress should help families with homeschooling expenses due to COVID-19 by expanding 529 education savings accounts.
SCOTUS to hear arguments by phone – and can a state go too far to protect religious liberty?
The U.S. Supreme Court has decided to conduct oral arguments by phone next month. This effort to adjust to ongoing pandemic conditions will be a first for the court.
Utah rolls out plan to reopen the economy – will it ever be the same?
How we get food, shop, travel, work and entertain ourselves have all changed. Where and how could the pandemic permanently change economic life for families?
Pandemic brings out religion’s unifying power … even for the nonreligious
In a time of crisis, such as the present pandemic, we are often reminded of fundamental realities that can be easy to forget or take for granted during better times.
COVID-19 helps boost innovative cost-sharing program as Utah colleges delay tuition hikes
Salt Lake Community College, Utah Valley University and the University of Utah are delaying tuition hikes in an effort to keep education affordable during the coronavirus outbreak.
Sutherland signs coalition letter urging Congress to fix Federal CARES Act (Coronavirus Aid Relief & Economic Security)
Sutherland believes that with this flexibility, the federal funding would better complement the state’s current economic relief efforts and more effectively position state and local economies for a rapid recovery once the novel coronavirus pandemic is under control.
Youth mental health hangs in balance. Philanthropy can help.
As hundreds of thousands of Utah’s youth enter week five of these restrictive measures and social isolation, we should be particularly wary of the impact of this new reality on their mental health.
History shows us government expands in a crisis, then stays that way
Passion during a crisis is not political – it is human nature. However, exploitation of a crisis is political, and we should be aware of an existing structural imbalance at the federal level that enables the leveraging of passion and avoidance of responsibility.
Staggering unemployment numbers, public opinion should inform lawmakers’ decisions
Minimizing the damage as we balance public health and economic concern during a crisis should be the policy goal for legislators, the governor, and local elected officials.
Silicon Slopes collaboration could be the future of Utah medical care
Silicon Slopes, in collaboration with medical care providers, the state Department of Health and the state COVID-19 Task Force, recently launched TestUtah.com to assess Utahns online to determine if they need to be tested for COVID-19.
Special session is a chance to engage your legislators
Utah lawmakers will convene in a special session next week – and among other pieces of legislation, will be looking at HB 332, a bill the governor vetoed that would have created a scholarship program for families with children with special needs.
Education experts predict pandemic will change public education
The public education system is likely to be permanently changed by the response to the coronavirus pandemic – or more precisely, by the knowledge gained by principals, teachers, parents and children during the response to the pandemic.
Potential SCOTUS case could protect supporters of unpopular causes from retribution
This is an important case with the potential to clarify whether a state can, like Alabama tried to do in the 1950s, create a climate where supporters of private associations are at risk of being harassed or intimidated because of their beliefs.
How is pandemic homeschooling going for Utah parents?
It’s difficult to compare experiences because everyone’s circumstances are so different: the number and personalities of children, employment and financial status, familiarity with homeschooling, and a host of other issues.
Utah Leads Together and the consent of the governed
The plan’s success requires that those who administer it recognize the fact that governments “deriv[e] their just powers from the consent of the governed,” in the words of the Declaration of Independence.
Pandemic fallout: N.Y. man sues Gov. Cuomo over inability to gather, observe Jewish faith
Effectively, the lawsuit is asking the courts to decide whether New York’s coronavirus pandemic response strikes the right balance between the compelling interest of public health in a pandemic and the constitutional requirement to protect religious freedom.
Coronavirus pandemic continues to change higher education
During this window of change in higher education – primarily the expansion of online coursework – Snow Online is also normalizing other innovative changes like generously offering credit for prior learning and catering to the atypical student.
From Washington to WWII: Ups and downs for religious freedom
While the roughly 140-year period between the enactment of the First Amendment and World War II was often a dark and difficult time for the aspiration of religious freedom, all of this persecution set the stage for a crucial upsurge in legal protections of for religious belief and expression.
Tax benefit in bill will help religious charities mitigate coronavirus crisis
The coronavirus aid bill recently passed by Congress and signed by President Trump includes some important provisions that reflect the importance of religious and other private charitable endeavors at times of great need.
How might coronavirus improve the future of healthcare?
If the pandemic leads states and the federal government to embrace more market-driven health care policies — removing barriers to telemedicine, encouraging drive-up testing and home delivery of prescription drugs where such delivery is reasonable — then innovations can be better for everyone.
How the federal coronavirus relief bill is likely to impact families
On Friday, Congress passed a $2 trillion coronavirus relief bill, also described as an economic stimulus package, that will impact various aspects of family life – immediately and over the long term. President Trump has said he intends to quickly sign the bill into law.
President’s letter: Our urgent work
Crisis does not sideline an organization like Sutherland – it increases the importance and urgency of our work.
New special needs opportunity scholarship FAQ
With all education choice programs, increased choices give parents the opportunity to try new options as they seek what is best for their children, some of which may have negative or positive outcomes.
Can the government order churches to close without violating the First Amendment?
Questions are being asked, however, about the extent of the state’s ability to direct churches to close in the event of an emergency like the current worldwide pandemic.
Sutherland joins KSL’s Lee Lonsberry to talk coronavirus and whether the government can force you to stay at home
Our system is set up to look at situations like this, empower the government to take action when it’s urgent in the case of coronavirus, but still work with people rather than imposing our will upon them.
The state of education after the 2020 legislative session
In spite of a unique legislative session, with too few drafting attorneys, plus the novel coronavirus precautions implemented partway through, the Legislature should be commended for its efforts to think innovatively in education.
Is COVID-19 our best civics teacher?
Civics education is defined as the study of our rights and responsibilities as citizens. And nothing forces us to think through our rights and responsibilities like a public health crisis.
COVID-19 concerns have a rare impact on Supreme Court – but its work still goes on
The postponement of oral arguments may slow up some cases, but the justices still have plenty to do in the absence of these arguments, and there is no reason to believe that this appropriate concession to public health will create long-term problems.
New prescription drug law will increase transparency, help consumers
By promoting a free market for prescription drugs through market transparency and restrained anti-competitive practices, this law will offer financial relief to patients by encouraging more affordable prescription drugs. That is something Utah families sorely need.
President’s letter: We will prevail
As power moves from federal to state to local agencies, we see the true importance of local leadership – as well as the irreplaceable role communities must play in addressing their own needs.
COVID-19 response means concern for today, but hope for tomorrow
Despite the understandable anxiety and worry caused by the novel coronavirus pandemic, the public response from Utahns and Americans should give us cause to hope for the future.
What will coronavirus mean for education?
Utah state leaders are wisely asking questions and taking steps early to prepare for the spread of the coronavirus pandemic. We should do likewise in preparing for its effects in public and higher education.
Sutherland Institute applauds passage of Special Needs Amendments Bill
The Legislature’s willingness to pass this program helps protect parental choice as well as Utah’s students with special needs.
Peaceful multiculturalism is far better than ‘tolerance,’ say Azerbaijani leaders
The government panelists disavowed the ideal of tolerance, preferring multiculturalism, which they described as more expansive – actively appreciating those with other beliefs. Muslims, Jews and Christians have coexisted in the area for thousands of years.
Special-needs tax credit scholarship closer to becoming law
The tax credit scholarship would allow students with an individualized education program (IEP) the opportunity to purchase a range of educational options like private tutoring, school tuition, special needs therapies and more.
Establishing the Aspiration of Religious Freedom in the United States — Religious Freedom 101
Religious freedom has been a national aspiration from before the country was founded. Yet, just like the nation’s aspirations for racial equality and gender equality, our nation’s history shows uneven progress.
Religious groups’ brief explains why government shouldn’t be able to circumvent protections
The government must carefully limit the scope of its regulation so that it advances that overwhelming interest without unnecessarily limiting valid exercises of the fundamental right.
Students, teachers eager to tackle issues of history, Constitution
Both the desire to wrestle with tough issues (rather than settle further into a particular bias) and to freely disagree with their peers is a good sign for U.S. history and civics education in our country.
Can Muslim man be forced to act as informant? Or does it abuse his religious freedom?
Religious freedom is not a narrow, partisan issue. Potential threats to this freedom come from many different administrations and cut across religious affiliations.
Is free market medical care the only option?
The failure of significant healthcare policy reforms at both national and state levels suggests that these market-based policy reforms also require more time to become politically possible.
Utah Legislature grapples with civics education
Rather than civics education funneling people into a type of shallow activism, robust civics comes from a common understanding of and personal connection to our history as Americans.
SCOTUS cases point to religious freedom issues that Congress should help decide
Congress must play a larger role in protecting religious freedom while balancing the interests of others. This branch of government is better suited for balancing various interests than the Supreme Court, which tends to decide on only very specific disputes.
Expecting traditional outcomes in a world of changing values is insane
If we disregard as unfair the principles of free enterprise and instead adopt the notion of social equality — regardless of the standard at which equality is realized — then we exchange the inequality of outcomes possible under a free market for a sameness of outcomes achieved through redistribution. That is socialism, and it has never worked.
Sutherland Institute supports Special Needs Scholarship Amendments
Education is about helping each individual student reach their unique God-given potential, whatever path it takes to achieve that.
Entrepreneurs in the marketplace help healthcare reform in Utah
Utah’s entrepreneurial spirit – the free market drive to innovate to fulfill people’s unmet needs – is particularly strong and visible in Utah’s healthcare sector.
Sutherland Institute launches new series: Religious Freedom 101
Sutherland Institute will be addressing questions about religious freedom in detail with a series called Religious Freedom 101.
Sutherland Institute delivers statement on HB 152 – Civic Education Testing Requirement
Sutherland Institute recommends that HB 152 (Civic Education Testing Requirement) – which would repeal the civics test graduation requirement – instead create an interim study topic delving into history and civics education, which is what 1st Substitute HB 152 would accomplish.
Faith-based organizations help the vulnerable — give them room to do it
The most important religious liberty question, though, is the most basic: Can the federal government expand the original — stingy — religious exemptions to make them more expansive so religiously motivated organizations can do their work without fear of running afoul of the law?
Eliminate civics exam? Only if we can spur interest in actual civics
Utah has work to do in civics education. Much like the rest of the nation.
Tax reform repeal starting to impact this year’s state budget
The Legislature’s fiscal analyst told the majority caucus that in a couple of years most state programs that Utah families and businesses rely upon – road maintenance, air quality programs, low-income housing and healthcare programs, criminal justice and public safety programs, etc. – will face budget cuts without any changes to the tax system.
Education and healthcare issues to look for in the 2020 legislative session
There are two policy areas in which reforms could most directly impact families and businesses in the 2020 legislative session: education and healthcare. And these issues tend to be heavily legislated areas of state public policy. Case in point: As of this article,...
How does tax reform repeal impact state funding for public schools?
With December’s tax reform law now repealed by the passage and signing of HB 185, the Legislature is currently working to determine state funding for public schools for the upcoming fiscal year. We may not know exactly how much public schools will get right now, but we can get a general understanding of what the short-term budget and revenue impacts of tax reform’s repeal will be.
Three ways you can celebrate National School Choice Week
Utah has a unique opportunity to consider education choice in our state right now. We’re in the timely overlap of the first week of the Utah State Legislative session and National School Choice week. Here are a few ways to celebrate the options that choice in education brings us…
Sutherland president comments on passage of tax reform repeal
Sutherland remains committed – post-repeal – to a thorough examination of the facts and principles pertinent to tax reform in Utah. We will continue to research ideas that work, inform the public about needs and timelines, and strive to ensure the well-being of Utahns statewide.
Sutherland President comments on tax repeal
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: SALT LAKE CITY—Today Sutherland Institute President and CEO Rick Larsen delivered the following statement: Something significant occurred this week. With the referendum effort around tax reform culminating in an announcement that the new tax law...
Supreme Court case deals with education, religious discrimination
On Wednesday, January 22, the Supreme Court held oral arguments in a Montana case involving education and religious discrimination – a situation whose roots go back to the late 19th century.
Education tech exec Dr. Frantz Belot joins Sutherland’s Board of Directors
“I like the fact that Sutherland Institute invites healthy conversations based on sound principles,” Dr. Belot said. “We may be firm in our values, but I still believe that we ought to consider other perspectives. I have found in my religious, professional, and personal life that learning from other people is key to progress and sometimes a key to avoid dire consequences.
Should history textbooks differ from state to state?
A few days ago The New York Times published “Two states. Eight Textbooks. Two American Stories,” an article that highlights an interesting reality: California and Texas history textbooks have the same publisher but different information within their covers.
Sutherland launches information campaign: The truth about Utah’s tax cut
In an effort to bring more complete information and greater transparency to the debate, Sutherland Institute has launched an information campaign: The truth about Utah’s tax cut. On Thursday, Jan. 16, newspaper ads, radio spots and social media posts will begin with the aim to inform Utah citizens about the recent debate surrounding tax reform.
The truth about Utah’s tax cut
If you sign the referendum opposing tax reform at the grocery store, you will raise your taxes. Learn the truth before you sign …
RMS President Sharlene Wells Hawkes joins Sutherland’s Board of Directors
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: SALT LAKE CITY—Today Sutherland Institute President and CEO Rick Larsen announced that Sharlene Wells Hawkes is joining the organization’s Board of Directors. “Sharlene Wells Hawkes’ career includes diverse and ground-breaking work – in so many...
Retired Maj. Gen. Jeff Burton joins Sutherland’s Board of Directors
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: SALT LAKE CITY—Today Sutherland Institute President and CEO Rick Larsen announced there will be significant additions to the organization’s Board of Directors. Larsen said three new members will be announced in January 2020, starting with...
A new funding system may be best for Utah’s schools
If the tax reform package jump-starts a change in Utah’s public school funding policy, years down the road we may look back and find it to be the most powerful outcome of tax reform. We may see December 2019 as the month we freed public schools from the limits of the income tax.
Sutherland delivers public comment for proposed tax reform legislation
Our current tax structure is outdated and requires updating to meet a changing and growing economy. And the process – as illustrated by today’s version of the legislation – has been thorough and responsive.
Fairness for All Act is a step in the right direction
A sound policy solution to this dilemma should leave politics aside. It should consist of the approach and substance contained in the Fairness for All Act (FFA). Instead of demanding rights for one group at the expense of others, the FFA seeks to protect the rights of everyone.
Sutherland Institute reacts to new legislation, Fairness for All Act
With an understanding that the Fairness for All Act has a long road ahead in terms of refinement and passage, Sutherland Institute fully supports its intent to fairly consider the rights of both the LGBTQ and faith-based communities.
Pressure grows for healthcare to get on the price transparency train
If enacted, these rules would mean that for the first time, families across America will be able to conveniently compare prices for healthcare services from different providers. In addition to considering which provider they are most comfortable with, patients will be able to make healthcare decisions based on which they can afford.
Forces of free enterprise can improve Utah’s transportation system
As transportation thinkers maneuver through technological challenges, public opinion and funding realities to address transportation issues in the face of growth, they should keep in mind a few principles that can pave the way to practical transportation solutions.
Image gallery: 25th Anniversary Gala
On Saturday, Nov. 9, Sutherland Institute held its 25th anniversary gala where more than 600 notable guests attended. It was not only the largest gathering in Sutherland’s history, it was perhaps the most consequential.
This Veterans Day, ensure their cause is just
The future is complicated. Americans will be faced with tough decisions. In preparation for that day, let us resolve for the sake of our service members that we will ask them to sacrifice only when we are confident their cause is just.
Statement of support for Nov. 7 draft tax reform proposal
Sutherland Institute supports the tax reform draft legislation because it strengthens Utah’s economy by supporting families.
Statement of support for tax reform proposal
We are supportive of the intent and many of the policy concepts included in the tax restructuring policy proposal put forward by the chairs of the task force.
Transcript: Former Gov. Jeb Bush on the future of education
I’m here just to give a few brief remarks about the importance of education. I’ll start with something…maybe it’s provocative, maybe you guys have already figured this out. It’s my passionate belief that a child born in poverty today in this country … they’re never going to have a job if we don’t … dramatically change how we educate our children.
Utah tax reform recommendations
As the 2019 general session concluded, Utah’s Legislature created the Tax Restructuring and Equalization Task Force. Impetus for so doing is the need to address the imbalance in state revenue sources and restrictions on revenue use.
LGBTQ rights: Should Supreme Court reinterpret Civil Rights Act or is it Congress’ job?
On Tuesday, the U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments about whether the 1964 Civil Rights Act prohibiting discrimination “on the basis of sex” should be reinterpreted by the court to add the categories of sexual orientation and gender identity to the law. Congress has failed to do this multiple times, so advocacy groups have turned to the courts.
Proposed rule changes addressing conversion therapy
Sutherland Institute recommends that the Department of Commerce not finalize any rule changes to R156-61, but rather that it act only to make policy recommendations regarding the regulation of therapies for children with questions about their sexual attractions or gender.
Wait, who’s in charge of education in Utah?
Partisan elections for the Utah State Board of Education have been found constitutional by the Utah Supreme Court. The court held that elected officials aren’t employees — a commonsense concept we intuitively understood.
Yet, a larger, simmering policy question continues to be asked: How should education be governed in Utah?
Time for the Supreme Court to clarify religious liberty?
Two have cases pending before the Supreme Court in its new term beginning Oct. 7, 2019. The rest are asking the court to hear their cases.
Attract and retain teachers by giving them more autonomy
But with burnout being the leading reason for exiting the profession, the question remains: What more can be done so the noble profession is also one of the most sought after?
Education — when will we ever learn?
Education policy debates in Utah almost always turn into full-blown arguments. Given education’s standing as the highest ranked priority for Utahns year after year, and the diversity of views around ideas and solutions, it’s no wonder.
Constitution Day
While pundits and journalists call for a new Constitution – a better and more modern one – so many people throughout modern history and around the world look at our Constitution as something to be revered, aspired to and emulated. It seems that only here in America, in a nation blessed by the many freedoms and liberties the Constitution affords, we find in our prosperity the time and inclination to disparage it.
For 9/11, I wear a red bandana
Weeks later, on September 11, 2001, at 8:46 a.m., American Airlines Flight 11 hit the North Tower. At his desk, Welles called his mother, letting her know he was OK. At 9:02 a.m., United Flight 175 hit the South Tower, cutting a diagonal path between the 78th and 84th floors. Without hesitation, Welles took off his equities trader hat and put on his fireman hat.
Sutherland Institute applauds Utah Supreme Court’s decision to uphold state board of education elections
Reinstating SB 78 is good news for Utah voters and public school students. Partisan elections in board member races is prudent policy because it raises the profile of the 15 elected offices that create important statewide policy on licensing, standards and assessments.
Transcript: Sutherland’s Congressional Series event with Rep. Ben McAdams and visiting scholar William Smith
The following are unedited and electronically transcribed remarks delivered by both Rep. Ben McAdams (D-Utah) and William S. Smith, Pioneer Institute’s visiting fellow in the life sciences, during the event Reining in the Cost of Healthcare.
Transcript: Rep. Rob Bishop on education at Sutherland’s 2019 Congressional Series
The following are unedited and electronically transcribed remarks delivered by both Rep. Rob Bishop (R-Utah) and Christine Cooke, the director of education policy at Sutherland Institute. They were delivered during Sutherland’s Aug. 28 Congressional Series event,...
Transcript: Sutherland’s Congressional Series event with Rep. John Curtis and visiting scholar Mary Hasson
The following are unedited and electronically transcribed remarks delivered by both Rep. John Curtis (R-Utah) and Mary Hasson, the director of the Catholic Women’s Forum, during the event Religious Liberty for All.
Transcript: Sutherland’s Congressional Series event with Sen. Mitt Romney
The following are unedited transcriptions of remarks delivered by Senator Mitt Romney (R-Utah).
As Hamilton said, civil and religious liberty go together
Our Founders concluded that religious liberty should be prioritized and protected — but not in a manner that guards only one specific religion.
U.S. needs solutions for education costs, but not ‘free’ college or debt cancellation
There needs to be a cultural shift around big-name, often expensive, universities. Americans need to refocus on getting an education for the sake of attaining knowledge and skill, not status. We need to refocus on the needs of students. We need to stop seeing them as a price tag, but instead allow them to learn from experience. The experience that comes from real effort and sacrifice.
Sutherland Institute announces Sen. Romney & Burgess Owens in 2019 Congressional Series
Sutherland Institute announced Sen. Mitt Romney will speak about The Case for Conservatism in Sutherland’s 2019 Congressional Series presented by Zions Bank.
World-renowned presidential historian to keynote Sutherland’s annual gala
SALT LAKE CITY—Sutherland Institute announced today that Doris Kearns Goodwin – the world-renowned presidential historian, public speaker, and Pulitzer Prize-winning New York TimesNo. 1 best-selling author – will keynote Sutherland’s 25th anniversary gala on Nov. 9,...
Transcript: Sutherland’s Congressional Series event with Rep. Chris Stewart and visiting scholar Romina Boccia
The following are unedited transcriptions of remarks delivered by both Rep. Chris Stewart (R-Utah) and Romina Boccia, the Director of the Grover M. Hermann Center for the Federal Budget at The Heritage Foundation, during Free Enterprise or Socialism – Where Is America Headed?
We need a new approach when we discuss socialism
Where in the world – today or throughout history – is a shining example of socialism that works? Where is the benevolent leader that did not resort to oppression to stifle a population grown tired of the minimum of everything?
Coverage of Mueller hearing highlights – yet again – the consequences of confirmation bias
The coverage and aftermath of the Robert Mueller congressional hearing confirms two things: confirmation bias is still a thing, and the stories we tell matter.
Juab partners with ASU Prep Digital to offer Utah students college-prep courses
Sutherland Institute seeks to share innovative approaches to education that offer students as many options as necessary to succeed. And as always, we applaud the courage it takes for innovative leaders to try something new.Thursday night Juab School District announced...
Tax reform? But I thought …
It’s not hard to understand that Utahns may be experiencing a bit of confusion, and for some a sense of whiplash, about the current focus on and potentially significant pending changes in the state’s tax structure. After all, didn’t we have a $1 billion-plus...
Sutherland Institute announces new board chair
SALT LAKE CITY—Today Sutherland Institute announced Stan Swim has stepped down from its Board of Directors after more than a decade of service. Ron Daw, a seasoned entrepreneur who co-founded Daw Technologies, has taken his place. “I’m grateful to have served as part...
Helping Utahns afford healthcare starts with finding common ground
Finding consensus on policy can and should become the rule, not the exception.
July is a month to remember – and celebrate – that American history is no myth
Like most Utahns, I grew up attending the Days of ’47 Parade. But I had a distinct advantage – Aunt Myrtle’s porch. She lived along the parade route. And I always felt bad for people who had to compete for places to set up their lawn chairs. That porch seemed to be...
In Utah, we can disagree better
Originally published in Deseret News. Utah does a lot of things right. While water cooler conversations and local headlines tend to highlight disagreements, those whose work exposes them to national counterparts know there are legislators and leaders nationwide who...
Guns and suicide: Utah needs honest search for solutions
Originally published in Deseret News. Suicide rates in the United States are at record highs, according to a recent federal study. Sadly, Utah’s suicide rates have been even higher. A major factor in Utah’s high suicide rate is gun-related suicide, according to a...
Supreme Court leaves Maryland memorial cross standing
In a second religion-related decision this week, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that a public World War I memorial to war dead in Maryland – which included a cross – need not be removed. The case did not involve the more familiar question about religious freedom...
What are the implications of Supreme Court’s refusal to hear 2nd cake case?
On Monday, the U.S. Supreme Court decided not to hear a religious liberty case from Oregon. The court did, however, vacate the Oregon decision, which fined cake decorators $135,000 for declining to create a cake for a same-sex wedding. The Supreme Court directed the...
Transcript: Dr. Clark Gilbert on innovation in education
The following is a transcript of Dr. Clark Gilbert’s keynote presentation at Innovation in Education (a Sutherland Institute event) on Wednesday, May 15, 2019 at The Hinckley Institute of Politics. CLARK GILBERT: [First few seconds not recorded prior to microphone...
Salt Lake Chamber learns about new education program benefiting military families
On Wednesday, June 5, Matt Bowman – founder of the innovative education program My Tech High – spoke to the Military Affairs Committee of the Salt Lake Chamber about military families that are finding success with the program’s flexibility as they serve our country...
We are misreading and misleading millennials — badly
A generation focused so fully on itself must collectively take some responsibility for the trends and attitudes we now criticize.
Photo recap: Innovation in Education
Ultimately, Sutherland Institute is calling for a willingness to innovate and for better outcomes for students as individuals.
Photo recap: Striving for Inclusion
LGBTQ advocacy group and conservative think tank partner to host religious liberty event
Utah families need transparent pricing of health care, prescriptions
Originally published in The Salt Lake Tribune. Democratic presidential candidates are aspiring to replace private health coverage with Medicare. Utah’s Republican-controlled state Legislature recently passed some 26 new health care laws, reforming things ranging from...
Arthur Brooks’ documentary The Pursuit: a focus on human dignity and a call for a ‘sea change’
After Sutherland Institute’s advance screening of The Pursuit, president & CEO Rick B. Larsen released the following: The message of Arthur Brooks’ new documentary, The Pursuit,is innovative and new, but also traditional – even familiar. The artistic vision behind...
Photo recap: The Pursuit screening
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Thoughts about the future of Utah’s Medicaid program
Remarks as prepared by Derek Monson, vice president of policy at Sutherland Institute, for a panel on “Charting the Future of Utah Medicaid” at the 2019 Utah State of Reform Health Policy Conference in Salt Lake City on April 24. What is the future of Utah’s Medicaid...
How to bridge the partisan divide
Originally published in The Hill. As a conservative policy thinker and a lesbian pastor, we share a friendship blessed by difference. After nearly a half-decade of conversing, writing and speaking together about the controversies around LGBTQ equality and religious...
Sutherland joins LGBT pastor for ‘Inclusive Freedom’ event at BYU
“How do we start solving problems?” asked Derek Monson, vice president of policy at Sutherland Institute, at an event this week. “It’s not by turning to our Capitol, it’s about turning to our communities. Start building relationships that increase our understanding.”...
Utah is right to signal respect for the sanctity of life
Originally published in Deseret News. Nearly all laws send some kind of message: about our priorities as a community, about what we value or about what we feel is unimportant. In a time when other states are considering or enacting extreme bills that remove...
Sutherland Institute: Federal approval of Medicaid waivers is good news for Utah families
SALT LAKE CITY — Today, the Trump administration partially approved Utah's Medicaid expansion plan. Sutherland Institute's VP of policy, Derek Monson, released the following statement:"This is a good thing for Utah families, taxpayers and the state's most vulnerable...
Education in the 2019 Legislature: Lots done, lots left to do
Originally published in Deseret News. With the 2019 general legislative session completed, a policy dissection is in order. So, what was accomplished in Utah education policy? The answer: A good chunk of work. What work is still left to do? Ditto. Educators The...
Sutherland Institute applauds signing of State Monuments Act Amendments into law
SALT LAKE CITY — Sutherland Institute applauds Governor Gary Herbert, who today signed HB 14, State Monuments Act Amendments, into law. “Utah has long led the way in public lands policy,” said Derek Monson, vice president of policy. “This bill reminds us that...
What’s at stake in SCOTUS argument over WWI memorial cross
Originally published in Newsmax. Observers are predicting the Peace Cross at the World War I Memorial in Bladensburg, Maryland, will be allowed to stay, based on oral arguments recently held before the U.S. Supreme Court. Advocacy groups had asked the federal courts...
The side effects of temporary tolerance
Originally published in The Hill. During a recent visit, my doctor forever changed my view of tolerance when he asked, “How are you tolerating the medication?” To him, tolerance meant: Are the side effects worth the benefits? I reasoned that I would prefer not to take...
Sutherland applauds the passage of SB 236 – State Board of Education Candidacy Amendments
The following was written by Christine Cooke, director of education policy at Sutherland Institute in support of SB 236 – State Board of Education Candidacy Amendments. It was sent prior to the final floor vote and the bill’s passage. Members of the Utah...
Sutherland applauds passage of clean slate legislation
SALT LAKE CITY — Today Rick Larsen, Sutherland Institute president and CEO, released the following statement commending Utah's Legislature for passing HB 431 — Expungement Act Amendments: "Every so often, lawmakers have the opportunity to pass a law that will improve...
Two apprenticeship bills help expand the American dream
Originally published in Utah Policy. Jason is your average 17-year-old high school senior who lives in South Salt Lake. Now’s the time to plan for what he should do after graduation. All his friends are going to universities, and he’s thought about it too, but...
HB 296 – Rural Online Working Hubs Amendments
Comment presented by Zach Schofield on March 5, 2019, in support of HB 296 1st Substitute – Rural Online Working Hubs Amendments, before the Senate Economic Development and Workforce Services Committee of the Utah Legislature. The bill, which was passed out by the...
Sutherland Institute supports HB 431 – Expungement Act Amendments
The following testimony was given by Stan Rasmussen, Sutherland Institute vice president of government affairs, to members of the House Economic Development and Workforce Services Committee on March 5, 2019. Representatives, A reasonable vision of justice and the rule...
Don’t ditch letter grades for schools – but provide more detail
Originally published in Utah Policy. Using a letter grade to communicate school performance is simple. That’s the power of it. Accountability to the public is only effective when information is clear and easy to understand. And grading schools A-F makes performance...
Support for SB 34 – Affordable Housing Modifications
The following testimony was given by Zachary Schofield, a policy research analyst at Sutherland Institute. It was presented in support of SB 34 – Affordable Housing Modifications before the House Economic Development and Workforce Services Committee of the Utah...
Bipartisan Clean Slate initiative will help Utah and former offenders
Originally published in Deseret News. Every so often, lawmakers have the chance to pass a law that will improve public safety, increase government efficiency, change thousands of lives and improve legislation that is essentially already on the books in Utah. Such is...
Help former criminals expunge records and move on with Clean Slate Initiative
Originally published in Utah Policy. Every day, thousands of Utahns are burdened by nonviolent criminal records that torpedo good job prospects, deny them homes, and even prevent them from getting driver’s licenses – even though they have fully served their time in...
Sutherland commends creation of task force to study state education governance
Sutherland Institute's education policy director, Christine Cooke, released the following statement: "Sutherland Institute commends the recommendation of Representative Melissa Garff Ballard in the House Education Standing Committee today to create a task force to...
Sutherland supports SB 177 – Scholarships for Special Needs Students
The following email was sent to members of Utah’s Senate Revenue and Taxation committee on Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2019, from Christine Cooke, Sutherland Institute’s education policy director, prior to SB 177 being heard in committee: Members of the Senate Revenue and...
‘Will of the voters’ goes deeper than one ballot initiative
Medicaid expansion proponents characterize the Utah Legislature’s approval of a modified Medicaid expansion, referred to as SB 96, as defying the will of the voters on Proposition 3. The truth is, Utah legislators did exactly what voters elected them to do: pursue...
Sutherland Institute testifies in support of SB96 – Medicaid Expansion Adjustments
The following testimony was given by Stan Rasmussen, Sutherland Institute vice president of government affairs. It was included as part of Senator Allen Christensen’s presentation of SB 96 3rd Substitute – Medicaid Expansion Adjustments on Wednesday, Feb. 6, 2019,...
We need to do better than ‘tolerance’
In February 2019, we observe Black History Month with troubling images that are in the rearview mirror – but not nearly far enough behind us. Hate crimes in the nation’s 10 largest cities increased by 12 percent last year, reaching the highest level in more than a...
Sutherland supports education bill SB 91 – Acceptance of Competency-Based Amendments
The following email was sent to members of Utah’s legislative body Wednesday, Feb. 6, 2019, from Christine Cooke, Sutherland Institute’s education policy director, prior to SB 91 being heard in committee: Members of the House Education Standing Committee, Sutherland...
Abortion of children with Down syndrome hints at eugenics
Originally published in Deseret News. The philosopher George Santayana once said, “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” We must remember the past when considering abortions of unborn children with a prenatal diagnosis of Down syndrome....
Miscalculations hamstring both sides of hate crimes legislation debate
Originally published in The Salt Lake Tribune. In the wake of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ clarification of its stance on hate crimes legislation, lawmakers, advocates and political news media are speculating about how far hate crimes legislation...
Legislators can use state tax reform to position Utah for future
Originally published in Daily Herald. Momentum is building toward state tax reform this year. The governor wants to cut sales taxes but expand the tax to more services, while influential voices in the Legislature would like to see income taxes cut instead. Both...
Legislature can bring clarity – and individualized funding – to Utah education
Originally published in The Spectrum. Over the past several years, Utah education practitioners have received many legislative mandates that affect life at the school level — changes to literacy requirements, sex education, statewide assessments, and school...
Two strategies to improve Utah’s ballot initiative process
Originally published in Standard-Examiner. The number of ballot initiatives seen in Utah in recent elections is historically high. Some have divided communities (e.g., medical marijuana), while others created legal conflicts and left state legislators to clean up the...
How to find consensus on beer and public safety
Originally published in Deseret News. The annual alcohol policy debate in the Utah Legislature is brewing. Grocery stores are seeking to loosen regulations on the sale of beer. Public health and safety advocates are celebrating that Utah just became the first state in...
Legislature can help Utahns solve growth issues
Originally published in Utah Policy. Utah is growing – it’s one of the fastest-growing states in the country. This is great news, but it also presents the Legislature with unique issues. This year, the Legislature has the opportunity to pursue solutions to our state’s...
Sutherland Data Check: Hate Crimes
The following was sent to Utah's state senators and representatives ahead of the 2019 legislative session. An important part of Sutherland Institute’s mission is informing debate and elevating dialogue about important public policy issues. To that end, Sutherland is...
Amend Medicaid expansion, but we should do so much more
Originally published in Utah Policy. In the runup to the 2019 legislative session, legislative leaders are discussing potential amendments to the Medicaid expansion plan enacted by Proposition 3. As a matter of public policy, they are right to do so, despite the...
The Constitution is working, but Congress isn’t
Originally published in The Salt Lake Tribune. The current debate over the border wall and the associated government shutdown is complex politically and constitutionally. Scholars are debating what the president can and cannot do, and partisan divides are on full...
Sutherland Institute announces new members on its Board of Directors
SALT LAKE CITY—Today Sutherland Institute President and CEO Rick Larsen announced that both Greg Miller and John Sperry will join the organization’s Board of Directors. “We welcome the energy and expertise of these two great Utahns,” Larsen said. “Their vision will...
Innovation in Education Preview
Innovation in Education Preview0 Comments Sign up for your FREE digital download of Innovation in Education here. Sutherland Institute will be launching a new policy publication on Feb. 6, 2019. For more information about attending this event, register here. In...
Can you go a year without anger?
As the holiday season ends and we pack away the warmth and peace that tends to accompany time spent on faith, family and giving, we can feel the collision of re-entry into the world of angry post-holiday headlines and arguments. But is this shocking relapse absolutely...
Affordable Care Act ruling in Texas means big health care opportunity
Affordable Care Act ruling in Texas means big health care opportunity0 Comments In the wake of a Texas district judge’s decision declaring the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act – aka PPACA, the ACA or Obamacare – unconstitutional, many are asking some form of...
Trump’s Interior nominee needs to challenge status quo
Trump’s Interior nominee needs to challenge status quo0 Comments Originally published in The Hill. With the resignation of Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke, the public lands, conservation and environmental communities are thinking: who’s next? Depending on your political...
‘Every man for himself’ leads to a lonely place
Originally published on Deseret News. The United States has rich resources, a plethora of driven people and success in technological advancements. This seems like the perfect recipe to enable high levels of happiness among Americans, right? Wrong. America has a lack...
Sutherland Institute meets with U.S. Department of Education
SALT LAKE CITY—Today Sutherland Institute joined the U.S. Department of Education and other state think tank representatives to discuss individual state efforts in education. At the conclusion of the meeting, Christine Cooke, Sutherland Institute education policy...
Sutherland Institute releases statement after death of President George H.W. Bush
Rick B. Larsen, Sutherland Institute president, released the following statement after the passing of former president, George H.W. Bush: “People of all political views are respectfully commenting on the passing of George H.W. Bush. It is telling that today we look...
Sutherland Institute applauds passage of Utah Medical Cannabis Act
SALT LAKE CITY—Today the state Legislature, called into special session by Gov. Gary Herbert, passed the Utah Medical Cannabis Act. Stan Rasmussen, vice president of government affairs for Sutherland Institute, released the following statement applauding its passage: ...
Arthur Brooks on turning hatred into love
In this season of thanksgiving and gift-giving, Sutherland Institute wants to share a gift – a series, actually. Between now and the end of 2018, we’ll share important messages from our memorable gala keynote on the blog. This post is part 4 of 4. Arthur Brooks, at...
Sutherland Institute reiterates support of the Utah Medical Cannabis Act in statement to the HHS Interim Committee
On Monday, Nov. 26, the Legislature’s Health and Human Services Interim Committee met to discuss and receive public comment about the proposed Utah Medical Cannabis Act. Prior to the hearing, Stan Rasmussen, Sutherland Institute’s vice president of government affairs,...
Arthur Brooks on moving from contempt … to civility … to love
In this season of thanksgiving and gift-giving, Sutherland Institute wants to share a gift – a series, actually. Between now and the end of 2018, we’ll share important messages from our memorable gala keynote on the blog. This post is part 3 of 4. Arthur Brooks, in...
Religious Freedom: ability to discover truth for ourselves
The first time the significance of religious freedom truly resonated for me was during a conversation with a man from Saudi Arabia. One night over dinner, I asked why he chose to come and study in the United States. His answer was simple: to learn a new religion. His...
Arthur Brooks shares the solution to contempt in American politics
In this season of thanksgiving and gift-giving, Sutherland Institute wants to share a gift – a series, actually. Between now and the end of 2018, we’ll share important messages from our memorable gala keynote on the blog. This post is part 2 of 4. Sutherland Institute...
Arthur Brooks explains the biggest problem in American politics at Sutherland Institute’s 2018 annual gala
In this season of thanksgiving and gift-giving, Sutherland Institute wants to share a gift – a series, actually. Between now and the end of 2018, we’ll share important messages from our memorable gala keynote on the blog. This post is part 1 of 4.Attendees of the...
Midterm results are in – so what’s next for the ballot propositions?
Now that Election Day 2018 is in the rearview mirror, Utahns can think about the results of the ballot initiatives (Props 2, 3 and 4) and the nonbinding opinion question (Question 1) and determine the proper path forward for the policy issues involved – medical...
Voting 101: What will Question 1 do for education funding?
Voting 101: What will Question 1 do for education funding?Utahns are full steam ahead on voting. Many are filling out their ballots at home and trying to figure out the long list of propositions and amendments. There’s plenty to think through. Especially for Question...
Medicaid Expansion: Informing voters about Proposition 3
Medicaid expansion under Proposition 3 is likely to help some Utahns while harming others. When voting on Prop 3, it is important to consider what the initiative does and doesn’t do. What does Proposition 3 do? Prop 3 expands Medicaid under Obamacare to anyone making...
Proposition 2: What the medical marijuana initiative does and doesn’t do
The vote on Proposition 2 has largely been overshadowed by the medical marijuana compromise (which Sutherland supported) arrived at by legislative leaders; representatives of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; and proponents of Prop 2. This compromise is...
Would Proposition 4 curb gerrymandering in Utah?
“The most likely outcome for Proposition 4, if passed, is a series of lawsuits over any map that gets drawn,” said Derek Monson, vice president of policy at Sutherland Institute, during a panel Tuesday evening in Park City. The Project for Deeper Understanding hosted...
2018 State School Board Debates – District 5
DISTRICT 5 DEBATE - VIEWMONT HIGH SCHOOL SEPTEMBER 19More InsightsRead MoreConnect with Sutherland InstituteJoin Our Donor NetworkFollow Usfacebookinstagramtwitteryoutube
2018 State School Board Debates – District 3
DISTRICT 3 DEBATE - AMERICAN PREPATORY ACADEMY SEPTEMBER 25More InsightsRead MoreConnect with Sutherland InstituteJoin Our Donor NetworkFollow Usfacebookinstagramtwitteryoutube
2018 State School Board Debates – District 9
DISTRICT 9 DEBATE- RENAISSANCE ACADEMY SEPTEMBER 27Moderators: Elizabeth Gharbi, Royce Van Tassell Questions and Time Stamps (22:58) Who do you believe should be the primary driver of education policy? The State Board of Education, the Legislature, the governor, local...
2018 State School Board Debates – District 2
DISTRICT 2 DEBATE - OGDEN HIGH SCHOOL OCTOBER 4 Moderator: Jay Evensen Candidates: Scott Hansen – Attorney at Scott L. Hansen PLLC Craig Pitts – Elementary school teacher in Weber School District Questions and Video Time-slots 0:00- How you feel the board ought to...
2018 State School Board Debates – District 1
DISTRICT 1 DEBATE- EDITH BOWEN LABORATORY SCHOOL SEPTEMBER 20District 1 Education Debate: Terryl Warner vs Jennie Earl Moderators:Christine Cooke, Royce Van Tassell Questions and Time Stamps (22:18) What policies do you want to see implemented to both recruit and...
Sutherland Institute reacts to medical marijuana compromise
SALT LAKE CITY — Sutherland President Rick Larsen released the following statement Thursday after the press conference on Utah's Capitol Hill discussing medical marijuana policy in the state. “Sutherland Institute is pleased to see that the complex and important...
Sutherland president reacts to Kavanaugh hearings
Sutherland president reacts to Kavanaugh hearingsSALT LAKE CITY — Sutherland President Rick Larsen released the following statement Friday after the Senate Judiciary Committee voted Judge Brett Kavanaugh to the Senate floor. “For the first time since the SCOTUS...
Sutherland joins Utah Minority Bar Association panel: Pay equity – it’s complicated!
Sutherland joins Utah Minority Bar Association panel: Pay equity – it’s complicated! “There is evidence that suggests we could close most of the pay gap through the free market – if our public policies helped working women maintain attachment to the workforce...
Possible legislative compromise on medical marijuana is good news
Possible legislative compromise on medical marijuana is good newsOriginally published by Utah Policy. Utah Policy recently reported some detractors and supporters of Proposition 2 are angry about a potential legislative compromise on medical marijuana. It appears...
Highlighting Utah’s military installations leading up to Veterans Day
Highlighting Utah’s military installations leading up to Veterans DayIn an effort to honor those who have served our country –and inform citizens about how Utah contributes to military affairs – Sutherland Institute will highlight each military installation in the...
Federalism: Where do we go from here?
On Tuesday, I participated in a panel discussion at Utah Valley University on the topic of “Federalism: Where do we go from here?” It was the final panel of a two-day event that included overviews of the history and evolution of American federalism from the founding...
Studying the Constitution can bridge political gaps — and ward off fake news
Originally published by The Hill. A Trump voter, a Hillary voter, and a nonvoter walk into a room — and study the Constitution of the United States, together. That wasn’t a joke. That’s precisely what the three authors of this article have been doing regularly for the...
Sutherland Institute announces keynote and entertainment for annual gala
Sutherland Institute announces keynote and entertainment for annual galaSALT LAKE CITY — Sutherland Institute is pleased to announce that Arthur Brooks will keynote its annual gala. Brooks, in his final year as American Enterprise Institute president, will be joined...
Utah Education Debate Coalition presents the State School Board Debate Series
Utah Education Debate Coalition presents the State School Board Debate SeriesOn Wednesday, September 19, 2018, the Utah Education Debate Coalition kicks off its State School Board Debate Series with its first debate and candidate Meet & Greet! Tonight's event is...
Congressman Rob Bishop on public lands
Congressman Rob Bishop on public landsCongressman Rob Bishop addressed public lands as a part of Sutherland’s 2018 Congressional Event Series. Below is a collection of live tweets from the event. For a full recording, the speech and panel discussions were streamed...
The solution to the housing crisis? Compromise
The solution to the housing crisis? CompromiseWhether disgruntled over new high-density development or skyrocketing home prices, people in Utah are feeling the pinch of living in such an attractive place. Out-of-staters are flocking to Utah, and the generation...
Lawsuit Over ‘Gender Transition’ Cake Threatens Religious Liberty
Lawsuit Over ‘Gender Transition’ Cake Threatens Religious LibertyOriginally published by Newsmax. Jack Phillips, a Colorado cake decorator, has become a familiar name through the United States. At the beginning of June 2018, the United States Supreme Court...
Is free enterprise worth the risks?
Is free enterprise worth the risks?Originally published by the Deseret News. This week, Microsoft identified fake websites linked to a Russian intelligence agency. They were imitating conservative websites — even a couple of think tanks — which caught my attention....
Delaying prescribed burns only feeds extreme wildfires
Delaying prescribed burns only feeds extreme wildfiresOriginally published by The Hill. Each year, Westerners watch as extreme wildfires reduce their homes and communities to ashes. It doesn't have to be this way. Prevention — through the aggressive use of prescribed...
Congressman John Curtis Roundtable on the Opioid Epidemic
Congressman John Curtis Roundtable on the Opioid EpidemicOn August 13, Congressman John Curtis, District 3, sat down with rural Utah mayors, city council members, and other medical leaders to discuss the opioid epidemic as a part of Sutherland Institute’s 2018...
Smokey Bear: He’s got it all wrong
Smokey Bear: He’s got it all wrongOriginally published by Deseret News. Everyone’s favorite forest mascot turns 74 this month. Smokey Bear has long been a staple of forest fire prevention with the slogan “Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires.” Over his career, Smokey has...
Senator Hatch on SCOTUS nominee Brett Kavanaugh
SUTHERLAND INSTITUTE HOSTS CONGRESSIONAL EVENT SERIES Featuring Senator Orrin Hatch Sutherland is pleased to host United States Senator Orrin G. Hatch, senior member and former chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, to discuss Judge Brett Kavanaugh’s nomination...
Representative Chris Stewart on Ensuring America’s Security
SUTHERLAND INSTITUTE HOSTS CONGRESSIONAL EVENT SERIES Featuring Representative Chris Stewart Sutherland Institute invites you to the first event of our 2018 Congressional Event Series. Utah is fortunate to have a strong military presence, and Congressman Stewart will...
ExcelinEd’s Shan Goff shares how the Hope Scholarship is helping Florida students
ExcelinEd’s Shan Goff shares how the Hope Scholarship is helping Florida studentsExcelinEd’s Florida Policy Director Shan Goff joins Sutherland Institute’s Christine Cooke to discuss Florida’s new Hope Scholarship Program. This scholarship helps vulnerable students...
Millennial leaders are emerging with strong foundations
Millennial leaders are emerging with strong foundationsOriginally published by the Deseret News. The next generation is well on its way to assuming leadership roles both in business and politics. More and more often, while scanning LinkedIn, I see the name of a young...
Wildfire retardant is often ineffective. Here’s what communities should do instead.
Wildfire retardant is often ineffective. Here’s what communities should do instead. Originally published by The Salt Lake Tribune. Right now air tankers are flying the skies above the western United States where wildfires threaten homes. When these massive...
A Public Lands Discussion with Senator Mike Lee
A Public Lands Discussion with Senator Mike LeeThe following is a transcript of Senator Mike Lee's remarks during a public lands discussion sponsored by Sutherland Institute. Federal Lands and Royal Forests By Sen. Mike Lee Thanks so much, Rick. It’s great to be with...
Is the Masterpiece Cakeshop Decision Broadening?
Is the Masterpiece Cakeshop Decision Broadening?Originally published by Newsmax. The recent Supreme Court decision in Masterpiece Cakeshop v. Colorado Civil Rights Commission has been widely understood to be a narrow one. Not that it was not significant. The 7-2...
U.S. faces Hamilton’s question: ‘reflection and choice, or…accident and force?’
U.S. faces Hamilton’s question: ‘reflection and choice, or…accident and force?’ Originally published by Utah Policy. Seasonal sentiments around the Fourth of July are always justified, but this year – given all we are going through as a nation – they are also...
Sutherland signs coalition letter urging legislation to prevent family separation
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Western states brace for most severe wildfire outbreak since 2012
Originally published by The Hill. Smoke is beginning to rise from the West’s public lands — and it is just a taste of what’s to come. In a briefing to members of Congress, Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke and Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdueshared...
Work — the common thread through all Americans
Work — the common thread through all Americans0 Comments Originally published by the Deseret News. Summer is upon us and so too is a tale that’s been overtold: Americans are terrible at taking vacation. Every year we collectively fail to use millions of paid vacation...
Sutherland’s Matt Anderson on For The People (KVNU)
Sutherland’s Matt Anderson on For The People (KVNU)0 Comments Director of Sutherland Institute’s Coalition for Self-Government in the West, Matt Anderson speaks on an upcoming public lands panel with KVNU’s For The People. Click Here To Listen More InsightsYour Event...
From a wildland firefighter — why we need more wildfires
Originally published by the Deseret News. In June 2015, less than 24 hours after answering a phone call, I was on a plane to Alaska. I had just received my first assignment as a member of a Utah-based Hotshot crew — a team of about 20 experienced and physically fit...
Solving the immigration crisis is not beyond our capacity as a society
Solving the immigration crisis is not beyond our capacity as a society0 Comments The separation of families at the U.S. border provides a lesson that could change the trajectory of our nation and the manner in which we approach our most difficult challenges. The...
Reflecting on Sutherland’s namesake
George Sutherland was the first and only U.S. Supreme Court justice from the state of Utah. Sutherland’s life had great impact on Utah and is the reason my husband, Gaylord Swim, gave Sutherland Institute his name 23 years ago. I remember my husband pondering for...
Sutherland testifies before Congressional Subcommittee on new lands bill
Sutherland testifies before Congressional Subcommittee on new lands bill0 Comments On Thursday, June 14, Sutherland Institute’s Matt Anderson, director for the Coalition for Self-Government in the West, testified in Washington, D.C., on The Enhancing State Management...
Rising up — what the American flag represents
Rising up — what the American flag representsSept. 11, 2001. I don’t have to say much more for Americans to feel something. That day in history changed the United States. Whether we were directly affected by the tragic events on that day or if we learned about it...
‘Religious Liberty for All’
‘Religious Liberty for All’Last month, the Becket Fund for Religious Liberty hosted the 2018 Canterbury Medal Gala in New York City. Stanford Swim, Sutherland Institute board chairman, and I were privileged to attend this impressive event on May 24...
Masterpiece Cakeshop decision reveals a better way
Masterpiece Cakeshop decision reveals a better wayOriginally published by the Deseret News. At his home in Colorado, Jack Phillips must be celebrating the Supreme Court’s decision in his favor in Masterpiece Cakeshop v. Colorado Civil Rights Commission — albeit...
Get engaged in school board elections
Get engaged in school board electionsOriginally published by Utah Policy. The Utah State Board of Education (USBE) election is woefully underestimated. Too few know about the important work the board does, and even fewer know about the candidates running for the...
Sutherland Institute releases statement on SCOTUS ruling in Masterpiece Cakeshop v. Colorado Civil Rights Commission
SALT LAKE CITY — Today, Sutherland Institute's Bill Duncan, director for The Center for Family and Society, released the following statement responding to the Supreme Court decision in Masterpiece Cakeshop v. Colorado Civil Rights Commission: "Today's decision from...
So what does a think tank have to do with your life?
Since joining the Sutherland Institute, I am often asked: what exactly is a think tank? A fair question. But more important, perhaps, is this: Are think tanks of benefit to you? Can they assist you in deciding what you think? The Economist explains a think tank best:...
How to get engaged (in Utah politics)
With the primary elections coming up, I have heard people speculate about whether millennials – or younger generations – will show up to vote or be involved in the political process at all. But I wonder if millennials know how to do this. My experience may not be...
Lessons from Luxembourg for this Memorial Day
Lessons from Luxembourg for this Memorial DayOn this Memorial Day, a day set aside to honor service members who died on active duty, may we never forget the more than 1.1 million Americans who have died since the birth of our nation for the cause of freedom. To those...
Sutherland’s Rick Larsen on the Rod Arquette Show (KNRS)
Sutherland’s Rick Larsen on the Rod Arquette Show (KNRS)President of Sutherland Institute, Rick Larsen speaks on the controversial Utah Medical Cannabis Act with KNRS’s Rod Arquette. Listen to the full segment below: More InsightsRead MoreConnect with Sutherland...
Medical marijuana debate in Utah resembles a NASCAR pileup
Medical marijuana debate in Utah resembles a NASCAR pileupOriginally published by Utah Policy. When accidents occur in auto racing, spectators get so caught up in the carnage and the speed at which it all happens that they have little time to consider what might have...
Who manages the West’s federal lands?
Who manages the West’s federal lands?The federal government owns roughly 640 million acres – about 28 percent of the entire country – and nearly 90 percent of this land is located in the western United States. That means one out of every two acres in the West is owned...
Reining in the BLM’s wild horse crisis
Reining in the BLM’s wild horse crisisOriginally published by The Hill. Few symbols embody the American West like wild horses galloping through an endless sea of sagebrush. Unfortunately, there are now too many animals roaming the land and the plight of wild horses...
America didn’t lose its trust overnight
America didn’t lose its trust overnightOriginally published by the Deseret News. Trust seems to be going out of style like a fashion craze that no longer suits us. We are phasing out trust in our institutions, the media and even among each other. If trust were...
Skip the Twitter duels — the world really is wide enough
Skip the Twitter duels — the world really is wide enoughOriginally published by Deseret News. “SLC, you’re killing me. Put your phones away. We can see you. This isn’t a movie. What is up with you guys?” This tweet from Joseph Morales — the actor who plays Alexander...
Move the BLM to Utah, where it manages 43 percent of the state
Move the BLM to Utah, where it manages 43 percent of the stateOriginally published by The Hill. The Department of the Interior is facing the largest reorganization in its 168-year history. Hundreds of millions of acres will be profoundly impacted by the choices the...
Will Utahns show up at the ballot box for 2018’s big issues?
Will Utahns show up at the ballot box for 2018’s big issues?Published on April 18, 2018 Originally published in the Deseret News. Local caucus meetings are over, party conventions are here and the midterm election is in November. Conventional wisdom — or at...
Change to LDS Church policy can improve intergenerational relationships
Originally published by the Deseret News. More than 60 percent of Utah residents will be affected by the recent organizational restructuring of the LDS Church’s elders quorums — the groups in which adult males meet — and the church’s personal ministering system, which...
A lobbyist’s role in American democracy
The following remarks were presented in March 2018 by Sutherland’s Matthew Anderson during Rep. Rob Bishop’s annual education conference at the Utah State Capitol. Anderson joined Rep. John Curtis, acting director of the Bureau of Land Management Brian Steed, and...
Sutherland recognizes Hill Air Force Base Col. Jennifer Hammerstedt as she leaves Utah for Pentagon assignment
Sutherland recognizes Hill Air Force Base Col. Jennifer Hammerstedt as she leaves Utah for Pentagon assignmentSALT LAKE CITY — Sutherland Institute would like to join a grateful community in recognizing Col. Jennifer Hammerstedt, who has served at Hill Air Force Base...
Improving education for students with special needs
Improving education for students with special needsOriginally published by Utah Policy. We have a responsibility to help all our students – no matter how unique their needs might be. Last year the U.S. Supreme Court held in Endrew F. v. Douglas County that federal law...
An empowered woman empowers women
An empowered woman empowers womenLooking back at Women’s History Month, we should remember that women play an essential role in bolstering other women, and in turn freedom. How can women make a difference for other women and for liberty? First, we should understand...
How to Give Military Kids a Flexible, High-Quality Education
How to Give Military Kids a Flexible, High-Quality Education Originally published by The Daily Signal. I’m a military brat, along with my five siblings. My dad was a pilot in the Air Force, and being part of a shared community while living on base made for a wonderful...
Establishing founding virtues in our own lives
Establishing founding virtues in our own livesOriginally published in the Deseret News. Society is shaped by our collective choices, the demands we make of elected representatives and the laws that result. Today, demands for societal change are rampant. Movements like...
Sutherland Institute commends statement by Utah governor in opposition to the marijuana initiative
Sutherland Institute commends statement by Utah governor in opposition to the marijuana initiativeSutherland Institute exists to inform civil and principled dialogue and decision-making. The marijuana debate has, in our opinion, strayed from both reliable information...
Ballot initiatives influenced Legislature’s actions, Sutherland’s Monson says
Ballot initiatives influenced Legislature’s actions, Sutherland’s Monson says The 2018 legislative session was, in part, defined by the Legislature’s determination to act before it was acted upon, Sutherland Institute Executive Director Derek Monson said Wednesday...
Innovations for Students with Special Needs Panel
Innovations for Students with Special Needs PanelJoin us as we dive into innovations in education for students with special needs. The local leaders and experts on our panel have created and implemented innovations at a community level, and they are willing to share...
The U.S. can’t fund compassion if it has no money
The U.S. can’t fund compassion if it has no moneyOriginally published by the Deseret News. Despite its complexity and absence of empathy, math always has served as the arbiter of fact vs. opinion. But when the math itself comes into question, we are left to partisan...
Moving on from Operation Rio Grande: Community groups step in
Moving on from Operation Rio Grande: Community groups step inOperation Rio Grande was a crucial short-term solution to a growing problem in Salt Lake City. In the long run, however, it will take impassioned private efforts, not government programs, to avoid Operation...
2018 Utah Legislature offered a balanced budget and stability amid growth
2018 Utah Legislature offered a balanced budget and stability amid growthOriginally published by the Deseret News. Another annual general session of the state Legislature is in the books. What a remarkable process. We have much to appreciate about this annual forum:...
Maligned practice of chaining restores ecosystems
Maligned practice of chaining restores ecosystems Originally published by Utah Policy. A recent television ad campaign calls for a complete and permanent halt to chaining on Utah’s BLM lands. Chaining is the practice of dragging a heavy chain between two tractors to...
The Limits of Protest Culture
The Limits of Protest CultureIf you choose to participate in a protest, remember that it is not the end. It’s a start. There is no shortage of things to protest for or against in our country. Our protest culture has become the only way many people engage in the...
Unemployment data underscore the positive impact of HB 390 – Rural Economic Development Incentives in strengthening rural economic incentives
Unemployment data underscore the positive impact of HB 390 – Rural Economic Development Incentives in strengthening rural economic incentives The following two charts illustrate the stark economic differences between urbanized areas of the state and rural Utah by...
Millennial students should take a second look at vocational schools
Millennial students should take a second look at vocational schoolsOriginally published by the Deseret News. On its way to the governor’s desk is legislation proposed by Utah Rep. Keith Grover that would create a scholarship for students to attend a vocational school....
Can legislative deal for school funding lead to innovation in public ed?
Can legislative deal for school funding lead to innovation in public ed?Originally published by Utah Policy. In the final days of the 2018 session, Utah’s legislative leaders have agreed to raise property taxes (freezing the state property tax rate) and put a gas tax...
‘No longer isolated’
‘No longer isolated’Originally published in the Deseret News. Headlines describe an America in decline. Our better angels seem absent, and every vice that can be labeled uniquely American is on full display. Our United States of America feels anything but...
Testimony in support of HB 468 – Residential Vocational and Life Skills Program Amendments
Testimony in support of HB 468 – Residential Vocational and Life Skills Program AmendmentsPresented before the House Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice Committee of the Utah Legislature by Stan Rasmussen, Sutherland Institute vice president. Thank you, Mr. Chair and...
Sutherland Institute applauds passage of SB 172 – Medicaid Waiver Amendments
Sutherland Institute applauds passage of SB 172 – Medicaid Waiver AmendmentsSALT LAKE CITY — Today the Utah Senate voted in favor of SB 172 – Medicaid Waiver Amendments. This legislation, making changes to the current Medicaid system, can be explained in two parts....
Testimony in support of HB 408 (Public Education Amendments)
Testimony in support of HB 408 (Public Education Amendments)Testimony given by Christine Cooke, education policy director at Sutherland Institute, in support of HB 408 (Public Education Amendments), on Feb. 26, 2018, before the House Education Committee of the Utah...
The Cost of Personalized Learning
The Cost of Personalized LearningWill focusing on a student's individual needs and creating personalized learning paths cost taxpayers more money and result in ANOTHER tax hike? The short answer is no. Personalized learning is a philosophy, not a program. Like “choice...
Testimony in support of HB 354 (Student Prosperity Savings Program Amendments)
Testimony in support of HB 354 (Student Prosperity Savings Program Amendments)Statement written by Christine Cooke in support of HB 354 (Student Prosperity Savings Program Amendments) and submitted to the House Economic Development and Workforce Services Standing...
Testimony in support of SB 195 (Credit Acceptance by Higher Education Institutions)
Testimony in support of SB 195 (Credit Acceptance by Higher Education Institutions)Statement written by Christine Cooke in support of SB 195 (Credit Acceptance by Higher Education Institutions) and submitted to the Senate Education Committee of the Utah Legislature....
Sutherland Institute applauds passage of public lands legislation
Sutherland Institute applauds passage of public lands legislationSALT LAKE CITY — Today HJR 2 – Joint Resolution Urging Congress to Relocate Federal Land Management Agency Headquarters and HB 357 – Evaluating Tax Revenue Foregone From Federally Controlled Lands passed...
‘Truth Decay’: How to know when facts have exited
‘Truth Decay’: How to know when facts have exitedOriginally published in the Deseret News. Truth in America is in trouble. For many of us, it is difficult to know what to believe anymore, and we are facing a crisis of trust in the media and in our institutions. There...
The mad rush of Bears Ears mining claims that never happened
The mad rush of Bears Ears mining claims that never happened Originally published in the Washington Examiner. When the Outdoor Retailer and Snow Shows debuted last month in Denver, attendees surveyed the latest and greatest in outdoor recreation equipment. But even...
How to fix the unintended consequences of Grand Staircase-Escalante
How to fix the unintended consequences of Grand Staircase-EscalanteOriginally published by The Hill. On a September morning in 1996, then-Gov. Mike Leavitt of Utah opened the newspaper to read that, with the stroke of a pen, nearly 2 million acres of land in southern...
Testimony in support of HB 57 – Utah Intergenerational Poverty Work and Self-sufficiency Tax Credit
Presented before the Senate Revenue and Taxation Committee of the Utah Legislature by Stan Rasmussen, Sutherland Institute vice president. Thank you, Mr. Chair, and good morning, Senators. Stan Rasmussen with Sutherland Institute. Supplementing information we emailed...
Sutherland Institute applauds passage of Cannabis Cultivation Amendments
SALT LAKE CITY – Sutherland Institute Vice President Stan Rasmussen released the following statement today in response to HB 197, Cannabis Cultivation Amendments, which passed out of the Utah House of Representatives: “Like most of Utah, Sutherland Institute looks...
We are heirs to a wealth of freedom
Originally published in the Deseret News. In my previous career as a business and philanthropic consultant, I often accompanied financial planners advising people who were about to inherit significant amounts of money. My role was to provide insights into effective...
Statement in support of SB 132 – Competency-Based Education Amendments
Testimony given to the State Education Committee by Christine Cooke on February 7, 2018: Members of the Committee, My name is Christine Cooke. I’m the director of education policy at Sutherland Institute. I sit on the Competency Based Learning Review Board, so I’m...
Sutherland Institute supports ‘right to try’ bill
SALT LAKE CITY – Today Sutherland Institute Executive Director Derek Monson released the following statement in response to HB 195 “Medical Cannabis Policy” which passed out of the Utah House of Representatives: “When properly balanced and combined, compassion and...
Sutherland Institute releases statement as Pyeongchang 2018 Winter Games begin
Sutherland Institute releases statement as Pyeongchang 2018 Winter Games beginSALT LAKE CITY – Today Sutherland Institute President Rick Larsen released the following statement in anticipation of the Pyeongchang 2018 Olympic Winter Games: “In 1996 I had the privilege...
“The Prohibitive Costs of a Value-free Society” – with 40 years of accrued interest
“The Prohibitive Costs of a Value-free Society” – with 40 years of accrued interestForty years ago today, on February 7, 1978, Neal Maxwell presented a luminous message to members of the Rotary Club International. A former professor of political science and later...
Millennial women — we need to hear your voices
Millennial women — we need to hear your voicesOriginally published in the Deseret News. The great American experiment only works when all voices are heard — men and women, liberals and conservatives, religious and nonreligious, old and young. What’s sad is that too...
Education choice is all about giving students what they need to learn
Education choice is all about giving students what they need to learnEducation choice is a principle, not a specific policy. And more people agree with this concept than you might think. At its core, education choice is the idea that we should give each student...
Don’t let stereotypes of intolerance hinder our communities
Don’t let stereotypes of intolerance hinder our communitiesOriginally published in the Deseret News. Most of us aren’t as tolerant as we think. The research says it’s not a liberal-conservative thing — it's a human thing. We’re also good at finding new ways of...
The way of the reformer
The way of the reformerFROM THE POWER OF TRUTH, BY WILLIAM GEORGE JORDAN The reformers of the world are its men of mighty purpose. They are men with the courage of individual conviction, men who dare run counter to the criticism of inferiors, men who voluntarily bear...
Innovations for Growing Education Choice
Innovations for Growing Education ChoicePanelists at “Innovations for Growing Education Choice,” a policy panel Sutherland Institute hosted last Wednesday during National School Choice Week, shared innovative ideas that give students options – policies that ought to...
Sutherland Institute announces new president
Sutherland Institute announces new presidentSALT LAKE CITY— Today Sutherland Institute announced Rick Larsen as its new president. Larsen succeeds former president Boyd Matheson, who recently announced his departure. “Rick is uniquely prepared and perfectly positioned...
Sutherland Institute announces departure of Boyd Matheson
Sutherland Institute announces departure of Boyd MathesonSALT LAKE CITY – Today Sutherland Institute announced the departure of Boyd Matheson. He has served as Sutherland president since March 2016 and has been an integral part of a new Sutherland vision. Matheson has...
We must take back DACA debate from political predators
We must take back DACA debate from political predatorsOriginally published by The Hill. Despite a federal district court ruling blocking the wind-down of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, there is good reason to hope that progress will be made...
Utah’s special-needs students deserve more choices
Utah’s special-needs students deserve more choicesOriginally published by the Deseret News. Congress gave students more education choice when it passed the GOP tax law. A provision in the law allows 529 plan funds — typically spent on higher education — to be...
Testimony Regarding H.R. 4532, Shásh Jaa’ National Monument and Indian Creek National Monument Act
Testimony Regarding H.R. 4532, Shásh Jaa’ National Monument and Indian Creek National Monument ActTestimony of Matthew Anderson, director of the Coalition for Self-Government in the West, a project of Sutherland Institute, regarding H.R. 4532, Shásh Jaa’...