Published January 2023

CONTENTS

07 32 54
COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENTS HOUSES ACT RELIGIOUS LIBERTY

08 34 57
MESSAGE FROM SEN. LEE OPED: BORDER SECURITY SPONSORED LEGISLATION
Salt Lake County

OFFICES OF SENATOR MIKE LEE

12 36 64
INFLATION RANCHERS & FARMERS INTERNSHIPS

16 41 70
Salt Lake City Office Washington DC Office OPED: SCHOOL CHOICE BUSINESS & TECH MOBILE OFFICES
Wallace F. Bennett Federal Building 361A Russell Senate Office Building
125 South State Street, Suite 4225 Washington, D.C. 20510
Salt Lake City, UT 84138 (202) 224-5444
18 44 72
(801) 524-5933 FORMULA ACT THE CANDY BOMBER MEET SEN. LEE'S STATE
STAFF
Ogden Office Vernal Office St. George Office 20 46
James V. Hansen Federal Building Vernal City Hall Federal Building
324 25th Street, Suite 1410 374 East Main Street Suite 261 196 East Tabernacle Street, Suite 21
LANDS MILITARY
Ogden, UT 84401 Vernal, UT 84078 St. George, UT 84770
(801) 392-9633 (435) 503-9335 (435) 628-5514 28 50
ENERGY REMEMBERING SEN. ORRIN
HATCH
30
Mobile Office locations available at www.lee.senate.gov/mobile-office UINTA BASIN RAILWAY
 2022 ANNUAL REPORT
To the State Legislature and the People of Utah

Each year during Utah’s

legislative session, I deliver
my annual report to Utah
lawmakers and the people
of Utah. This annual report
is intended to keep Utah
informed of my efforts as
I fight for our values in the
United States Senate.

4
 COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENTS
118th CONGRESS

Judiciary Committee - This committee oversees the Department of Justice, including the FBI,
portions of the Department of Homeland Security, and the Federal Trade Commission. They
also provide advice and consent for all judicial appointments, executive nominations, as well
as Constitutional amendments, immigration and naturalization, federal criminal law, patents,
copyrights and trademarks, antitrust law, protections on trade, and civil liberties.
• Ranking Member of Subcommittee on Competition Policy, Antitrust, and Consumer Rights
• Subcommittee on Administrative Oversight and the Courts
• Subcommittee on the Constitution

Energy & Natural Resources Committee - This committee oversees energy resources and
development, federal coal, oil, gas, and mineral leasing, territorial policy, public lands and water
resources. This committee is crucial for addressing public land and water issues that Utah is
facing.
• Ranking Member of Subcommittee on Public Lands, Forests, and Mining
• Subcommittee on Energy
• Subcommittee on Water and Power

Budget Committee - This committee oversees the drafting of congress's budget plans and
monitors and enforces rules surrounding spending, revenue, and the federal budget.

Joint Economic Committee - The Joint Economic Committee is a research arm of the
government that advises Congress on economic conditions and recommends improvements
in economic policy. Sen. Lee serves as Ranking Member of the Joint Economic Committee and
oversees the Social Capital Project.

6 7
Sen. Lee speaking to BYU's Federalist Society Sen. Lee speaks to a group of students at the Sutherland Institute

FROM SENATOR LEE

Utah, and Utahns, are remarkable.

”
The enduring spirit of Utah is not inspired by government.

It’s inspired by moms and dads, teachers, small business owners, friends, and neighbors.

If you are seeking a place to start a business, Utah is the right place. The Constitution isn't needed
If you are seeking a place where community matters, Utah is the right place. only on good days; it's even more
If you are seeking a place where opportunity is abundant, Utah is the right place.
important in times of crisis.
I’m grateful for the privilege of representing Utah in the United States Senate for the 118th Congress.

It is my hope that the successes and enduring spirit of Utah will serve as an example for the nation.
8 9
Sen. Lee during a legislative hearing in Washington DC
Sen. Lee speaks at the new Gary R. Herbert Institute for Sen. Lee speaks with Micahel Farr at Farr's Ice Cream in Sen. Lee holds a townhall with a group of miners in Juab Sen. Lee speaking with a group of Latino leaders from Utah
Public Policy at UVU Sen. Lee at the Cottonwood Heights Police Banquet Ogden County being honored for their work across Utah's communities Sen. Lee tours Azomite Mining in Juab County

R to L: Speaker Brad Wilson, Rep. Blake Moore, Sen. John

Sen. Lee sits for an interview with Fox 13 Sen. Lee speaks with a boy showing his cow at the Weber Sen. Lee during an interview with ABC4 about the Great Barasso, and Sen. Lee share the stage at the Great Salt Sen. Lee speaks to a the Vernal Area Chamber of Sen. Lee meets with Snow College Interim President
about inflation County Fair Salt Lake Lake Summit Commerce in Vernal Stacee McIff

Sen. Lee walks the aisles with Brandon Peterson at

Sen. Lee speaks to Lisa of Lisa's Country Sen. Lee, Sen. Romney and Rep. Curtis speak to the Sen. Lee and Sen. Cynthia Lummis meet with The Sen. Lee and his wife Sharon with F35 Demo Team
Peterson's Fresh Market in Riverton talking about
10
Kitchen in Nephi South Valley Chamber inflation Sen. Lee joins Rod Arquette on Talk Radio 105.9 Otherside Academy Commander Maj. Kristin BEO Wolfe 11
 INFLATION IN UTAH

12 13
 Last year, the inflationary effects of runaway govern-
ment spending cost the average Utah family $12,000.
That’s $12,000 more than they were paying relative to
the day President Biden took office.

Senator Lee introduced several bills to combat infla-

The Ocean Shipping Reform Act adopted three ele-
ments of the SHIP IT Act and was signed into law by
President Biden on June 16, 2022.

To combat skyrocketing housing costs, Senator Lee

introduced the HOUSES Act to help local government
”
Inflation is made in Washington because only Washington can
create money ... What produces it is too much government
spending and too much government creation of money and
nothing else.
tion. The Price Act would require a three-fifths super- units address housing supply and affordability in their
majority vote in the Senate to pass any new spending jurisdictions. The bill accomplishes this by allowing a Milton Friedman
measures when inflation is above 3% nationally. This state or local government to nominate a tract of land
legislation would make it more difficult for Congress to within the Bureau of Land Management's (BLM) juris-
spend when inflation is out of control. diction to be used for housing.

To combat supply-chain difficulties, Senator Lee in- You can see more of Sen. Lee's detailed plans
troduced the SHIP IT Act to ease the nation's sup- to fight inflation by scanning the QR code.
ply-chain crisis and simplify or suspend particular
federal regulations on ports, ships, and trucks. The bill
aims to streamline the process of getting products off
of ships, into trucks, and onto shelves.

14 15
 WHERE YOU LIVE SHOULD NOT
DETERMINE YOUR CHILD'S EDUCATION
Originally Published in the Deseret News on Jan. 26, 2022
New parents tend to “nest” when expect-
ing a baby. This means piling up purchas-
es, of course, but it also includes the care-
ful collection of advice. Expectant parents
consult family members, friends and often
a slew of books, classes and coaches so
they can carefully consider which prod-
ucts, procedures and philosophies to use
while rearing their child.
This is a natural part of parenting. May-
be this is my paternal side showing, but I
would venture that a lot of the consider-
ation between brands of stroller or size
of diaper bag are ultimately much less
impactful than some decisions over which
most parents have little to no say, like the
child’s K-12 education.
16
For millions of Americans, the choice of
where their kids go to school is made
when they choose where to live. Their tax
dollars and usually their children are sent
to the local public school, whether they
like it or not.
This is not universally the case. Some
parents can send their children to private
or charter schools due to their ability to
pay tuition, scholarships or well-crafted
state laws but, more often than not, those
parents are better off financially than
their neighbors and can cover the tuition,
transport and tangential costs of choos-
ing another school.
In the case of the parents who choose to
homeschool their children, the increased
costs of books, programs and activities
are paid on top of their state and federal
taxes that go to the schools to which they
deliberately chose not to send their chil-
dren.
Recently, entire elections have swung on
the issue of parents’ choice of schools
and involvement in schools’ decisions. We
are blessed in Utah to have some of the
best teachers, schools and school districts
in the nation. Utah parents are involved
in the public schools and the schools are
widely appreciative and responsive. We
have competitive charter schools avail-
able and many noble homeschooling par-
ents, education pods and hybrid options.
Utah state law provides options to par-
ents that those across the country envy.
Lamentably, the federal government does
not have much enthusiasm for school
choice.
That cold shoulder toward school choice
hurts low-income families the most. The
thousands of federal dollars per low-in-
come student throughout a K-12 educa-
tion currently go to local public schools.
This contributes to students, families and
entire communities feeling trapped in
schools that fail to provide the foundation
they need to succeed. These school traps
can rob children and parents of the best
bet they have to break cycles of poverty
and access opportunities.
Parents know infinitely better than bu-
reaucrats what is best for their children.
That is why I introduced the CHOICE Act.
This bill will allow parents to choose to
direct federal dollars to the public schools
their children attend or to a 529 edu-
cational savings account to help cover
the expenses of homeschooling, private
school, trade school or college.
This bill would help empower parents to
make the most impactful choices for their
children, because there is no one better
qualified. It allows dollars to follow their
students, which in turn provides them
with a greater voice in the classroom.
Rock formations in Kane Co.
John Schilling, the president of the Amer-
ican Federation for Children, put it simply,
saying, “Education funding is meant for
educating children, not for protecting a
particular institution. This bill directly em-
powers lower income families by funding
students, not systems.”
Families are what make Utah great. In
every choice from strollers to schooling,
the well-being of the child is the parent’s
primary concern. So, let’s put parents in
charge. This bill is part of a movement in
which parents are taking back choices
that are rightfully theirs.
Students, communities and our nation will
benefit. Parents deserve CHOICE.
17
 Dubbed the "best-named law in history," Senator The resulting lack of competition, anticompetitive bar-
Lee's Fixing our Regulatory Mayhem Upsetting Little riers, and protectionist laws resulted in a nationwide
Americans (FORMULA) Act was signed into law by shortage.
President Biden in 2022.
Senator Lee's FORMULA Act targeted supply chain
With the highest birthrate in the nation, Utahns acutely disruptions caused by trade barriers, including tariffs
felt the weight of a needlessly prolonged baby formula and quotas on importation that reduced supply and
shortage. inflated the price of safe foreign-made formulas.

Protectionist policies and government favoritism re- The Senate unanimously passed a modified version of
sulted in four companies controlling over 90% of the the FORMULA Act, and the House passed the bill
processed infant formula sold domestically in the U.S. 421-2. President Biden signed the bill into law in July.

18 19
 LANDS
Utah is known worldwide for its beautiful vis-
”
The Antiquities Act says monuments should be 'confined to the smallest area compatible
with proper care and management of the objects to be protected.' When our two largest
monuments are two-and-a-half times the size of Delaware, it’s safe to say that’s not the
case.
tas and stunning natural wonders. Sen. Mike Lee

Our public lands are valuable to our thriving

tourism industry and those whose livelihood
relies on access to these lands. As such, it’s
essential that our public lands are protected
and properly maintained.

Unfortunately, over two-thirds of our land is

managed by unelected and unaccountable
federal bureaucrats who continue to burden
rural communities by misinterpreting and
abusing their powers.

Senator Lee maintains that the best way to

protect our national treasures is to empower
our state and local communities. Our land,
like our government, is managed best by
those closest to the people.

No one is better suited to protect Utah lands

than Utahns themselves. Senator Lee remains
devoted to making progress on this crucial
issue.

A cow grazing in San Juan County

20 21
 ”
Rooster and Sitting Hen Butte in Utah's Valley of the Gods near Mexican Hat

RECA
In 2022, the Senate unanimously passed Sen. Lee's two-year extension of the Radiation Exposure Compensa- When the government harms people, victims should be able to
tion (RECA) Act, ensuring that those across the West harmed by the nation's early nuclear program are eligible
for compensation. receive compensation. Downwinders and others harmed by the
Communities across Utah were affected by early nuclear production and testing. RECA became law in 1990,
nation’s early atomic program often suffer the consequences of
providing a one-time cash benefit to certain persons who participated in atomic weapons testing or lived near
nuclear test sites during above-ground atomic weapons testing between 1951 and 1992. RECA was scheduled to
exposure decades after the fact. The passage of my RECA exten-
sunset in July 2022 before the passage of Sen. Lee's extension. sion is a statement saying the United States government is not
The passage of this extension is part of Sen. Lee's comprehensive Downwinders Act which would expand eligi- abandoning these victims and communities.
bility for compensation and extend the application's eligibility for another ten years to ensure we take care of
those harmed by our nation's early nuclear program. Sen. Mike Lee
22 23
 ”
Residents of Utah are privileged to inhabit one of the most
geographically diverse states in the Union.
From the bustling metropolitan areas of the north to the
awe-inspiring nature of the south, millions of tourists flock
to the state annually.
From the towns of Ivins and Ibapah to Logan and Loa, from
Hooper and Huntington to Ballard and Blanding, Utah is
home to some of the most remarkable destinations.
Salt Lake City
The state is also one of the fastest-growing and youngest in
the country.
Senator Lee is dedicated to providing the necessary re-
sources to both rural and urban communities, such as de-
creasing the cost of living and protecting the water resourc-
es.
With its remarkable geographic diversity, Utah's voice is
unique in the national dialogue, a voice Senator Lee is fo-
cused on amplifying.

Sen. Mike Lee

A tractor in a field in Kane County

24 25

The La Sal Mountain Range
Rep Stewart and Sen. Lee speak to a group gathered for the Five and Six
County AOG Resource Tour in Bryce Canyon.
Farm equipment in San Juan County
Sen. Lee's staffers attend a Burro Roundup in Emery Co.
26
PILT
The federal government owns more than two-thirds of
Utah’s lands. Despite this federal ownership, counties
and local governments are required to provide essential
services (emergency rescue, road maintenance, etc.) in
these areas that do not contribute to the local tax base.
The federal government created the Payments in Lieu
of Taxes (PILT) program to compensate for the land we
cannot tax and develop due to federal ownership. Un-
fortunately, the reimbursement communities receive for
their land is much less than what it costs to provide nec-
essary services on the land and what taxes could be were
the land privately held.
For many of Utah’s rural communities, PILT payments are
necessary for providing infrastructure, schools, etc.
On multiple occasions, Sen. Lee has introduced bills and
amendments that would require a study to find the true
taxable value of federal lands so as to eventually provide
more equitable PILT payments. He remains committed to
aligning PILT payments with the actual property tax rev-
enue of the land in question to provide predictable and
long-term assurances for communities across Utah.
NEPA
The National Environmental Protection Act (NEPA) re-
quires federal agencies to consider the environmental im-
pacts of their actions and, if possible, take steps to miti-
gate the environmental impact of their decision through
Sen. Lee speaks to Utah Farm Bureau Members in Logan
other alternatives.
Environmental planning is essential to sustainable
growth. Unfortunately, NEPA has made much-needed
infrastructure and maintenance projects prohibitively ex-
pensive.
Consider this: The Hoover Dam was authorized in 1928,
started in 1931, and finished in 1936. The Golden Gate
Bridge? Took only five years to build. The Empire State
Building? Completed in a single year. None of these
quintessentially American projects could have been swift-
ly completed were they subjected to the NEPA Process.
To unleash American energy innovation, Senator Lee
worked to enact reforms in our federal code that would A windmill in San Juan County
return NEPA to its original purpose. He worked to include
amendments such as NEPA shot clocks, permit shot
clocks, one-lead-agency requirements, and categorical
exclusion sharing, all to reduce the burden placed on
those who drive our economy.
Sen. Lee addresses a group gathered for the Five and Six County AOG 27
Resource Tour in Bryce Canyon.
 ENERGY
Utah families experienced skyrocketing energy prices last
year.

On day one of his presidency, Biden unilaterally enacted

policies that hindered American energy production. As a
result, the American people had to bail out Biden’s poor
energy policies by tapping oil from our reserves or relying
on Venezuela, Saudi Arabia, or Iran.
A truck at a new oil well near Roosevelt

Senator Lee believes that we should not rely on human

rights abusers and other bad actors when we can produce
our own energy in a cleaner and more efficient manner.
Not only would this provide for our own needs, but it
could also provide for the needs of our allies.

This year, Senator Lee introduced legislation to clarify that

under the Mineral Leasing Act, the President does not
have the authority to hold the country’s domestic energy
production hostage.

Senator Lee introduced several bills and amendments

aimed at reversing the Biden administration’s moratorium
on energy leases and rolling back Environmental Social
Governance (ESG) obligations targeted at energy produc-
ers.

28 Sen. Lee's staff tour new oilfield wells in the 29

A pumpjack in San Juan County
Uintah Basin
 UINTA BASIN RAILWAY
Last year brought good news for the Uinta Basin Railway project. Sen. Lee played an instru-
mental role in securing approvals for this project and worked closely with the Seven County
Infrastructure Coalition, the Rio Grande Pacific Railroad, and the Ute Indian Tribe to obtain the
Record of Decision (ROD) for the Uinta Basin Railway project.

The project will construct approximately 85 miles of new rail line connecting South Myton and
Leland Bench to the national Union Pacific rail line in Kyune. Increased access to the national
rail network will help the Uinta Basin alleviate its inefficient freight transportation hampering
economic vitality in the area.
Sen. Lee surveys the proposed area for the Uinta Basin Railway in 2021

The rail will boost oil and gas production while providing new opportunities for our agricultur-
al, mining, and manufactured goods to easily reach American and global markets.

Sen. Lee and the residents of the Basin are eager for the economic opportunities that come
with the development of this project. It will bring reliable and efficient transportation to the
Ute Indian Tribe of the Uintah Ouray Reservation and all of Eastern Utah.

The railroad project is the first of its kind and a testament to how Utahns continue to lead the
way with innovative ideas.

Final approved route for the Railway courtesy of Uinta Basin Railway

30 Sen. Lee meets with planners and stakeholders for the Uinta Basin Railway in 2021 31

The U.S. now has a record shortage of over 5 million
homes. In 2021, the states with the highest increas-
es in home prices were located in the West. Unfor-
tunately, finding available land to increase housing
supply is a struggle. Sen. Lee’s HOUSES Act would
make small tracts of federal land available to com-
munities to address housing shortages or affordabil-
ity.
The HOUSES Act helps solve Utah’s land and hous-
ing scarcity by allowing parcels of federal land to be
purchased by a state or unit of local government at
a reduced price giving them the flexibility to ad-
dress housing constraints. The act requires that land
be used for housing, subject to a density
requirement, and protects against
32
development of expensive second homes on the
purchased parcels.
In Utah, the largest land owner in the state is the
federal government, and of those 33 million acres
they own, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM)
manages 23 million acres. Typical home prices in
Utah have increased by 89% over the last five years.
If just 1% of the acreage managed by the BLM in
Utah was made available for housing under the
HOUSES Act,
at least 774,000 additional homes would be made
available.
Communities across the country, particularly in the
West, are dealing with unprecedented housing af-
fordability and availability challenges. According
to a report by the Joint Economic Committee, the
HOUSES Act would lead to the construction of 2.7
million more homes in the United States, alleviating
14% of the nation’s housing shortage.
HOUSES ACT
Homes in Utah County
The committee also reports that the HOUSES Act
could fill all, or nearly all, of the housing shortage
in Arizona (100%), Nevada (100%), Wyoming
(100%), Idaho (95%), Alaska (85%) and New Mexico
(85%).
This bill could also fill a substantial share of the
housing shortage in Montana (73%), Oregon (69%),
Utah (35%), California (27%), Colorado (22%), and
Washington (9%).
Find out more about the HOUSES ACT by scanning
the QR code in the corner.
33
 As a conservative Utahn and a Latter-day Saint, I have
a unique view of our nation’s immigration policy. I’m Leading With Compassion &
proud of the hospitality extended by Utahns who wel-
come refugees and asylees. I think the perspective of Respect For the Rule of Law
Utahns from a conservative state whose ancestors fled Originally Published in the Washington Times Sept. 20, 2022
their homes due to religious persecution is capable of in-
forming solutions to the crisis at our southern border.
When it comes to our nation’s immigration policy, we should be
leading with compassion and respect for the rule of law. After all,
we are a nation of immigrants, a melting pot of ideas and cultures.
But compassion, absent an objective path, will ultimately result in
policies of callous indifference.
Failing to act is a disservice to those entering the country legally. Res-
idents along our Southern border can attest that there is nothing com-
passionate about ignoring the border crisis. The daily trafficking of wom-
en and children, the mass deaths of people transported in cargo containers,
and the daily terrorism of cartels, continue to grow the longer we wait.
Unfortunately, the political temperature surrounding the immigration debate
has led to an impasse. We’re doing nothing to address the core problems of our
immigration system. Instead, our policy has been largely reactive, coming up with
short-term solutions to address specific concerns without acknowledging the fun-
damental issues driving the crisis.
The result is a system riddled with loopholes.
I spent two years as an LDS missionary serving recent immigrants in the Texas Rio
Grande Valley. I can report that these loopholes serve neither current nor hopeful U.S. cit-
izens. Instead, they create a perverse set of incentives for border surges, often with deadly
consequences. What’s worse, these incentives often come at the expense of helpless and
victimized children.
We need a compassionate solution. Which is why I’ve introduced the Stopping Border Surges
Act to close loopholes in our policy and end their deadly incentives.
The first loophole is known as the Flores Settlement Agreement. The Agreement had noble inten-
tions but unintended consequences. As written, the Agreement is incentivizing children’s exploita-
34
tion. The Agreement prohibits governments from holding unaccompanied minors for more than 20 days.
The unintended consequence stems from the fact that we must also release any adult claiming to be the
parent of an accompanying child within 20 days of being apprehended. The result? Non-parents are in-
creasingly using children as a get-out-of-jail-free card at the child’s expense. These children are often
“recycled” by smugglers forced to cross multiple times to ensure admission for more adults. My legisla-
tion would end this incentive by allowing the parent and child to remain together during the pendency
of the immigration proceedings.
No matter their national origin, children need to be treated with the utmost care, respect, and rev-
erence. We should take every precaution to safely return children attempting to cross the border.
Currently, we return unaccompanied children from Mexico and Canada quickly and safely.
Children from other countries, however, are placed in a lengthy removal process. In the inter-
im, we release them into the United States with the same adults that smuggled them into
the country. Consequently, the policy incentivizes the enlistment of couriers to smuggle
children across the border. We can end this incentive by extending the same seamless
process available to children from Mexico and Canada.
Lastly, as a country, we must retain our ability to provide asylum for those seeking a
safe haven. Many of the immigrants arriving at Ellis Island did so because they fled
persecution. When the early Mormon pioneers moved west, they did so because
of threats of violence. America has always been a beacon for those in danger and
should remain that beacon for years to come.
To ensure that we provide asylum to all those who genuinely need it, we must
share the burden with other like-minded countries. Further, those who do re-
ceive asylum here must meet the requisite standards. My legislation would
require an asylum seeker to apply for asylum in at least one of the safe
countries on their route to the United States.
A nation of immigrants needs an immigration system that is both com-
passionate and fair. As we work to reach the consensus necessary
to tackle the most complex immigration questions, we must, at the
very least, end the dangerous incentives threatening children and
those fleeing violence. We owe it not only to the citizens of this
country but to future citizens who will one day reap the rewards
of their lawful entry into the greatest country on earth.
A tree in Capitol Reef National Park 35
 A tractor in Antimony Utah

UTAH'S RANCHERS AND Sen. Lee tours the Utah Greenhouse in Mona Sen Lee tours Great Basin Seed in Ephriam

FARMERS
Thomas Jefferson was right when he said tending to the land "is our wisest pursuit" and that those who
cultivate it are our "most valuable citizens."

Our farmers and ranchers are the backbone of our nation’s food supply. Unfortunately, a variety of
factors have made it difficult for Utah farmers to continue to produce. Senator Lee remains committed
to ensuring these valuable industries thrive and succeed.

Senator Lee cosponsored the Processing Revival and Intrastate Meat Exemption (PRIME) Act to
revive the ability of local custom slaughterhouses to compete with large regional packers in addition to
allowing individual states the ability to govern commerce within their own borders. Senator Lee knows
that local producers are indispensable to a resilient food supply chain.
36 37
Farm Equipment in San Juan County Sen Lee and Sen. Roger Marshall meet with members of the Utah Farm Bureau in Logan
 AMERICA SHOULD SEND A
of the brave Iranian women as they stood up against their oppressors. They risked their lives pursuing the free-
doms and values that make up the foundation of our republic. They fight for free speech, the freedom to deter-
mine their destiny and to worship as their conscience dictates. We must ask ourselves if it’s right to legitimize a

POWERFUL MESSAGE
regime capable of inflicting cruelty and violence on their people because they pursued values so familiar to ours.

To be clear, we must respect the sovereignty of Iran. But we can respect the sovereignty of Iran while recogniz-
ing the heroic bravery of those protesting against a repressive government. We can speak out against injustice
when a hostile government abuses its power. It is in America’s best interest to recognize the brave women of Iran
for standing up against their oppressors.

Iran has so much untapped potential. The people of Iran are young, educated, and completely at odds with their
government. Despite this, Iran’s parliament reports 70 percent of Iranians live below the poverty line. Rather than
Mass protests recently erupted in Iran over the death of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old woman arrested by Iran’s
harnessing the true potential of the Iranian people, the Ayatollahs perceive their youthful exuberance as a threat
morality police for incorrectly wearing her head covering. She was kidnapped from the streets, beaten in custo-
to their political survival. This perspective is incompatible with peace in the region.
dy, and died without a credible explanation from the Iranian government.
We hope the Biden administration will recognize that the current Iranian regime is not a partner the United
As protests surged, the Iranian regime cracked down. They fired indiscriminately at protestors and left hundreds
States can trust. To stand with the people of Iran is to stand against the legitimization of a brutal dictator. We
dead. This is the reoccurring face of an ugly regime we cannot forget.
expect that when this administration says the revival of the Iran Nuclear Deal is no longer a focus, it remains out
of focus indefinitely.
In light of the government’s violent retaliation, we find it inexcusable that the Biden administration has been
intent on reviving the weak Iran Nuclear Deal. The deal would strengthen the Ayatollah’s geopolitical grip and
further perpetuate their consistent pattern of abuse within the region. When the Ayatollahs win, America loses.

Though inexcusable, it is not surprising. As Isaac Schorr observed in National Review, Biden has surrounded him-
self with devotees of former President Obama’s progressive foreign policy, who are “so blindly committed to the
mistaken belief that the Iranian regime can be anything but an enemy of the United States that they are willing
to throw the Iranian people under the bus amidst a brutal crackdown on protesters.”
While the State Department announced recently that the pursuit of the Iran Nuclear Deal is “not our focus right
now,” America should send a powerful message to Iran by terminating nuclear negotiations altogether.

Failure to do so will only embolden the Ayatollahs. They are encouraged in their execution of trade deals with
America’s foreign adversaries; they fuel China’s ambitions to become a global superpower and fill gaps in Rus- BY TERMINATING
NUCLEAR NEGOTIATIONS
sia’s military infrastructure deployed in its war against Ukraine, including deadly drones and other hi-tech mili-
tary hardware. If the Biden administration attempts to revive the Iran Nuclear Deal, it will award Ali Khamenei,
the supreme leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran, global legitimacy.
We cannot allow that to happen.
By Sen. Mike Lee, Rep. Chris Stewart, and Khosrow Semnani
The next time this administration attempts to revive a deal with the Iranian regime, we must remember the faces Originally Published in The Hill on Nov. 1, 2022

38 39
 Sen. Lee meets with CEO's of startups at Altitude Lab at the University of Utah's
Sen. Lee and Sen Lummis meets with CEOS of Utah blockchain companies Research Park

UTAH BUSINESS AND TECH

Utah is a mecca for innovative companies and new technology.

Utah achieved this by supporting a free market economy

and allowing people to realize their full potential without the
overbearing hand of government.

Our highly educated workforce, culture of entrepreneurship,

low taxes, beautiful outdoors, and world-class recreation
creates the perfect environment for businesses to start and
succeed.

Senator Lee has been a champion for innovation and new

technology, like with his University of Utah Research Park Act.
Scan the code to the right for more about the Research Park
40 Act. 41
Sen. Lee and Sen Lummis meet with Utah companies in the Web3 and Blockchain space
Sen. Lee meets with BD Medical in Sandy Sen. Lee meets with Seek Labs and Carterra in Salt Lake City Sen. Lee meets with CEOs of Utah tech companies Sen. Lee holds a town hall meeting at Wasatch IT

42
Sen. Lee tours the new Northrop Grumman Roy Innovation Center Sen. Lee takes questions at Altitude Labs at Research Park Sen. Lee tours Wasatch IT Sen. Lee at the Utah Greenhouse with Juab County Comissioner Clinton Painter 43
 THE CANDY BOMBER
” Col. Gail Halvorsen represents the best of Utah and the best values of the Armed Forces. In
times of darkness and despair, Gail Halvorsen brought light and kindness, and his work and
legacy continues to this day. In Utah, we miss the “Candy Bomber” and his personal touch.
But I am grateful for the good work that is keeping his spirit of goodness alive and that his
story, his legacy, and his influence will carry on bringing smiles, relief, and hope for a better
world all along the way.
Senator Mike Lee
Few Utahns have exemplified the spirit of hu-
manity, compassion, and the community quite
like Col. Gail Halvorsen. The world came to
The newly named "Spirit of the Candy Bomber" C-17 sits next to the
know him as the “Candy Bomber” because, Sen. Lee and Col. Halvorsen before a candy drop in 2019 Spirit of Freedom C-54 at the Provo Airport in May 2022
in response to conflict and strife, he delivered
morsels of cheer and light from the sky to
those living in the darkness below.

In 2022, Col. Halvorsen passed away at the age

of 101, but his example and legacy will endure
in the hearts of all those he inspired.

Sen. Lee led the bill to rename the Provo Vet- Col. Halvorsen's daughter Marilyn gives a thumbs up with US Navy
erans Center after Col. Halvorsen and it was pilots before loading 3 tons of goods bound for Ukraine

signed into law in 2022, and the work done in

his office helped the Gail S. Halvorsen Aviation
Education Foundation and other Utah groups
ship 3 tons of donations to Ukraine in
“Operation Little Vittles 2.”
44
Watch what happened with
Operation Little Vittles 2 by
scanning the QR code to the
right with your phone.
45
Col. Halvorsen's children and their spouses at the renaming of the Provo Veteran's Center.

New US Army enlistees meet in Salt Lake
Sen. Lee meets with Hill Airforce Base leadership
46
MILITARY
From the Revolutionary War to the present day, the
United States Military has fought for freedom and de-
mocracy, defending and protecting our nation against
all those who would seek to do us harm. Through
their bravery and selflessness, the men and women
of our Armed Services safeguard our way of life and
ensure that our nation continues to remain a beacon
of hope and opportunity for all.
We owe a debt of gratitude to these brave individuals
that can never fully be repaid.
Senator Lee is committed to serving the members
of our military and our veterans. He believes it is our
duty to support them and honor their service.
Utah plays a vital role in the safety and defense of
our Nation. From Hill Air Force Base to Camp Wil-
liams, Sen. Lee is fighting to protect and support our
servicemen and women and their families.
Part of that fight entails reclaiming the war-making
powers given to Congress by the Constitution, guar-
anteeing a proper check and balance on the process,
especially when the lives of Americans are on the line.
In this fight to restore the appropriate authority to
Congress, Sen Lee has joined forces with colleagues
like Senators Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and Chris Murphy
(D-CT) to reclaim congressional authority to declare
war through the National Security Powers Act.
Senator Lee also fought for military families in the
Military Spouse Licensing Relief Act, which would
allow spouses of military members who have a pro-
fessional license in one state to receive reciprocity in
the state where their spouse is currently serving on
military orders. This bill was signed into law as part of
the Veterans Auto and Education Improvement Act
of 2022.
Senator Lee’s commitment to our military families is
further demonstrated by his tireless work on behalf of
Lt. Ridge Alkonis and his family. Following months of
communication with DOD leadership, Senator Lee led
legislation to continue Lt. Alkonis’s pay and benefits,
which passed unanimously, ensuring that his family is
provided for until he is returned home.
A new recruit poses with his mother
Senator Lee is actively working with the Department
of Veterans Affairs to update and utilize current tech-
nological advances to improve their services and
resolve long-standing problems that delay the care
and benefits that are promised to veterans and their
families.
To further help veterans and active-duty military
personnel, Senator Lee has a team of dedicated staff
who are ready to assist Utahns who are experiencing
difficulties and need help within their branch of mil-
itary service, the Department of Defense, or the De-
partment of Veterans Affairs.
Sen. Lee speaks to Brig. Gen. Richard W. Gibbs at the Warriors over the Wasatch Airshow
47
 Members of Sen. Lee's staff and Representatives from the Military Service Academy interview applicants to the Military Academies
MILITARY ACADEMIES
Each year Senator Lee nominates some of Utah’s
best and brightest to attend our nation’s military
academies, including the Air Force Academy, the
Merchant Marine Academy, the Military Academy
at West Point, and the Naval Academy.
Senator Lee’s and Senator Romney’s offices
conducted 146 interviews through a joint
application process, with 83 young Utahns
expressing a desire to serve our nation and further
their education.
48
Military Academy applicants wait for interviews
If you or someone you know is interested in
receiving a nomination from Senator Lee, you
can find more information at: lee.senate.gov/
academynominations or by scanning the QR code
below with your phone.
If you or someone you know is interested in
seeking a nomination to a service academy from
Sen. Lee, please scan the code to the right
49
 Mr. President,
Orrin G. Hatch will be remembered for
many things. His forty-two years of
service in this body are marked by suc-
cesses, historic legislation, and states-
manship. He served longer as a U.S.
Senator than any other in the history
of the State of Utah or the Republican
Party. At his retirement, he had passed
more bills into law than any other leg-
islator alive, an astounding seven-hun-
dred-and-fifty. While the record of his
service is remarkable and memorable,
I invite the Senate and the nation to
remember Senator Orrin Hatch by the
things that he remembered, every day,
here in the Senate and in his private life.
Every day upon entering his Senate
Office, Orrin Hatch would look upon
a prominently hung painting depict-
ing his Utah pioneer grandfather and
great-grandfather fording a stream on
REMEMBERING
horseback. This image, like so much
else in his life was a reminder of his
pioneer legacy, ancestry, and destiny.
In Utah, there is almost no more hon-
orable title than that of pioneer. In the
SENATOR
particular parlance of our state, a pio-
neer is not merely someone who goes
where others haven’t before. A pio-
neer looks toward the future without
ORRIN HATCH
forgetting who he or she is. A pioneer,
like those who settled the Salt Lake
Valley and much of the Western United
States, does so not out of conquest or
A floor speech delivered April 26, 2022 in search of glory, a pioneer goes and
works out of duty, responsibility, and
50 faith.
Orrin Hatch always remembered his
roots. Raised the son of a mechanical
laborer, he grew up in a family of little
means. Orrin was one of nine children
raised in a cramped depression-era
home without indoor plumbing. Two of
Orrin’s siblings died young. Another—
his older brother Jesse—gave the ulti-
mate sacrifice as a turret gunner flying
over Austria mere months before the
allied victory in Europe.
Orrin always remembered this example
of work and sacrifice from his parents
and brother. The sense of duty to God,
family, and nation was the primary driv-
er throughout his life. He served a two-
year mission for The Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-day Saints in Ohio. He
became the first in his family to grad-
uate from college, attending Brigham
Young University. He met Elaine Han-
sen and the couple married in 1957.
They later returned to Pittsburgh,
Pennsylvania and Orrin completed law
school at the University of Pittsburgh
School of Law while living in what used
to be a chicken coop in his parents’
backyard. He worked as a metalworker
and a janitor to provide for his family
while attending school.
Never one to make much of a fuss
about it, Orrin Hatch just did the work
that was expected of him. He knew
that life was not easy and that he could
not expect handouts. He developed
the reputation of a fighter, and while a
dedicated friend with an inviting laugh,
he would never forget the lessons he
learned young while in the amateur
boxing ring.
After moving back to Utah and running
a successful law practice, Orrin ran for
Senate to fight for the moral fiber and
everyday work ethic of Americans that
he felt was not being represented in
Washington. He won, and set out to
defend family values and constitutional
principles. He would remember to do
so throughout his career pioneering the
Hatch Amendment, a proposed Con-
stitutional Amendment which would
correct the erroneous claim that there
is a constitutional right to abortion, and
steadfastly advocating for a balanced
budget amendment to the Constitution.
Orrin Hatch defended life, religious lib-
erty, economic responsibility, and per-
sonal freedom throughout his time in
the Senate. His seven-hundred-and-fif-
ty proposals that became law cover
everything from welfare reform, reg-
ulatory restructuring, laws adjusting
the federal judiciary, to hallmark tax
cuts. Hatch’s tenure in the Senate was
marked by his chairmanship of the
Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions
Committee, the Committee on the Judi-
ciary, and the Finance Committee be-
fore serving as President Pro Tempore.
Senator Hatch helped rein-in an activist
federal judiciary and has helped restore
the true meaning of the Constitution to
our courts.
Senator Hatch played a prime roll in 51
 the nomination of every Supreme Court
justice for decades. He defended the
Court and the honor of Justices with
differing judicial philosophies.
Beyond his countless political accom-
plishments, Orrin Hatch was a dedi-
cated father, grandfather, great-grand-
father, and man of faith. He always
remembered the most important things
in life. He composed countless songs
of praise and patriotism. He served as
a volunteer leader in his church con-
gregations and his communities. He
founded the Orrin G. Hatch Foundation
to carry on and remember his work and
advocacy for collegiality and biparti-
sanship after his retirement from the
Senate.
Orrin Hatch always remembered Utah.
On weekends you would find him at the
grocery store and his church congrega-
tion rubbing elbows with the people he
knew and loved. He would talk about
the politics of the day, but also the
news affecting communities and fami-
lies he cared for.
Those who knew him felt the care and
interest he had. After I served as his
Senate page as a high school student,
there were two photos on my bedroom
wall: one of Karl Malone in his Utah
Jazz jersey, and one of me with Senator
Orrin Hatch.
Later, when I was serving as a mission-
ary in Texas, Senator Hatch sent me a
52
note and a $10 cheque telling me to
get a good lunch. I cherished the note,
and never could cash the cheque. The
memory and memento were worth
much more.
Orrin Hatch also always remembered
to work. He would come to the Sen-
ate early and stay late. He would think
years ahead and persistently pursue his
plans. He would take the time to build
coalitions behind ideas and bring about
needed reforms.
Senator Hatch knew that the Senate
was designed to be the cooling saucer
where ideas would steep and perco-
late often over the course of years and
decades.
Yet, Orrin always remembered the peo- left a legacy of dedication, service, and
ple behind the politics. He was a men- truth. I commend his memory to the
tor and friend to Senators from both history of our republic in the words of
sides of the aisle and built deep friend- a beloved hymn fittingly entitled, “They
ships with those of all political back- the Builders of the Nation.”
grounds. He cherished a friendship
with Senator Ted Kennedy and called They, the builders of the nation,
the late Justice Ruth Bader-Ginsburg
a dear friend. He instilled his hallmark Blazing trails along the way;
good humor and sense of duty on the
newer members of the Senate. I was Stepping-stones for generations
one of them. He greeted and accept-
ed me warmly only mentioning a few Were their deeds of every day.
times the fact I had decades before
served as his Senate page. He was a Building new and firm foundations,
force for collegiality and cooperation.
While he remained dedicated to the Pushing on the wild frontier,
principles and people that brought him
to the Senate, he would work with any Forging onward, ever onward,
and every one to get the job done.
Blessed, honored Pioneer!
Orrin Hatch was a giant of the Sen-
ate and a pillar in Utah. His influence, I bid my friend Senator Hatch onward,
hearty laugh, and powerful advice are ever onward. May we as a nation for-
missed by us here and by millions in ever remember his legacy is my prayer.
Utah. I know I speak for the entire
Senate in sending our deep condolence
and appreciation to Elaine; their chil-
dren Brent, Marcia, Scott, Kimberly, Al-
ysa, and Jess; as well as their grandchil-
dren and great-grandchildren. The gift
of Senator Hatch’s life of service has
made our State and our nation better.
As I said, Mr. President, there is perhaps
no more noble title in Utah than that
of pioneer. Orrin Hatch was a pioneer, Scan to see full floor
through and through. He followed in remarks
the footsteps of his forebears, and he
Sen. Hatch's casket sits in the Utah Capitol Rotunda53

Sen. Lee and his wife Sharon celebrate The Point Church's 100th
Anniversary with SLCo Mayor Jenny Wilson and the NAACP's
Jeanetta Williams Jeanetta Williams
Sen. Lee and his wife Sharon visit the Khadeeja Islamic Center in
West Valley
Members of Congress tour the newly renovated Washington DC
LDS Temple
54
RELIGIOUS
LIBERTY
” I’m proud to represent Utah with a diverse and historic religious population
and a legacy of religious freedom. I’m committed to protecting the
fundamental liberty of religious freedom across the nation.
Sen. Mike Lee
Religious freedom is the birthright and common heritage of all
Americans. From the genesis of our nation to the present day,
faith continues to guide the lives of many. We are a nation com-
mitted to welcoming those with different backgrounds.
Although America has always celebrated religion, today, it is un-
der attack.
Senatore Lee remains committed to fighting for the protection
of religious organizations and beliefs. Throughout 2022, Senator Rabbi Benny Zippel speaks after lighting the first candle of
Sen. Lee shares with Sen. Cynthia Lummis some of the history of the
Lee visited many of Utah’s unique and diverse religious commu- Salt Lake Temple Hanukkah at the Utah State Capitol
nities.
The fact that the U.S. Constitution enumerates the freedom of
religion as the First Amendment is no surprise. The right is fun-
damental. Religious freedom must be preserved.
Senator Lee is committed to ensuring that our laws and policies
respect the diversity of beliefs and practices characteristic of a
pluralistic society. This includes the ability to privately and pub-
licly exercise one’s faith or lack thereof.
Sen. Lee addresses congregants at The Point's 100 year anniversary Sen. Lee and Sen Lummis watch a rehearsal for the 2022 Tabernacle
Sunday Service. Chior Christmas Concert
55
 SPONSORED LEGISLATION
118th CONGRESS

S.3807 - Stopping Hindrances to Invigorate Ports and Increase Trade Act or the
SHIP IT Act
This bill temporarily waives various requirements and makes other changes to
address congestion at U.S. ports and get goods off of boats into trucks and onto
shelves.

S.3669 - 1031 Exchange Improvement Act

This bill revises the tax rule allowing deferral of gain for like-kind exchanges of
commercial property. (That rule provides that no gain or loss shall be recognized on
the exchange of real property held for productive use in a trade or business or for
investment if such real property is exchanged solely for real property of like kind.)
Specifically, the bill eliminates the requirement that a substitute property be
identified within 45 days of the sale of the original property.

S.3707 - Immediate Access for the Terminally Ill Act

The bill would allow terminally ill patients with certain diagnoses with limited life
expectancies to choose to forego the current five-month waiting period and receive
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits immediately.

S.3770 - PRICE Act

This bill establishes a point of order that prohibits the Senate from considering
legislation that would cause a net increase in outlays unless the Congressional
Budget Office certifies that inflation is below 3%. The point of order may be waived
by an affirmative vote of three-fifths of the Senate.
56 57
 S.3810 - Countermeasure Injury Compensation Fund Amendment Act
This bill modifies a program that compensates individuals for injuries experienced
due to medical countermeasures (e.g., vaccines) delivered during certain public
health emergencies, including with respect to compensation for COVID-19 vaccine
injuries.
S.Con.Res.34 - A concurrent resolution to express the sense of Congress in
opposition to the establishment of a new Palestinian consulate or diplomatic
mission in Jerusalem.
This concurrent resolution expresses the sense of Congress that (1) it opposes the
establishment of a new Palestinian consulate in Jerusalem, (2) any establishment
of a new consulate or diplomatic mission in Jerusalem should not move forward
without congressional approval through the passage of new legislation, and (3)
the presence of a United States diplomatic mission devoted to a non-state actor in
Israel's sovereign capital would be an affront to the territorial integrity of a long-
standing U.S. partner and ally.
S.4055 - LIBERATE Act
This bill establishes the Regulatory Oversight and Review Task Force to evaluate
and provide recommendations for modification, consolidation, harmonization, or
repeal of, federal regulations or guidance that impose substantial burdens on U.S.
industries or inhibit other economic interests.
S.4119 - RECA Extension Act of 2022
This bill extends a program that compensates individuals who were exposed to
radiation from atomic weapons testing or uranium mining or processing and who
subsequently developed specified cancers or other medical conditions. The bill
terminates the program two years after the bill's enactment.
58
S.Res.621 - A resolution honoring the life and legacy of the late Senator Orrin G.
Hatch.
This resolution expresses that the Senate has heard of the death of the Honorable
Orrin G. Hatch, former U.S. Senator for the state of Utah.
The resolution also expresses that the Senate honors the life and legacy of the late
Senator Hatch for his unwavering dedication to Utah as a Senator and a public
servant and accomplishments in legislating with principle and dedication for the
good of the people of the United States.
The resolution states when the Senate adjourns today, it stands adjourned as a
further mark of respect to the memory of Senator Hatch.
S.4211 - The Promoting Innovation and Offering the Needed Escape from
Exhaustive Regulations Act or the “PIONEER” Act.
This bill would establish a regulatory sandbox program under which agencies may
provide waivers of agency rules and guidance, and for other purposes.
S.4258 - Competition and Transparency in Digital Advertising Act
The bill would restore and protect competition in digital advertising by eliminating
conflicts of interest that have allowed the leading platforms in the market to
manipulate ad auctions and impose monopoly rents on a broad swath of the
American economy.
S.4261 - FORMULA Act
This bill would combat domestic baby formula shortages by removing tariffs
from foreign-made formulas and regulations that prevent the importation of safe
baby formula from abroad. It would also allow WIC recipients to use vouchers
to purchase formula from any producer as well as instruct the Department of
Agriculture to waive some administrative requirements for baby formula.
59
 S.4262 - Formula Act of 2022
This bill temporarily provides duty-free treatment to infant formula imported from
countries meeting certain standards.
The bill also makes formula imported under this bill eligible for purchase using
benefits received under the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women,
Infants, and Children (WIC).
The Department of Agriculture may modify or waive certain qualified administrative
requirements related to infant formula.
S.4571 - A bill to reaffirm that the President of the United States lacks the
authority to stop oil and gas leasing on Federal public land.
This bill would reaffirm that the President of the United States lacks the authority to
stop oil and gas leasing on Federal public land pursuant to Section 17 of the Mineral
Leasing Act.
S.Res.729 - A resolution designating the week beginning November 7, 2022, as
"National Pregnancy Center Week".
This resolution designates the week beginning November 7, 2022, as “National
Pregnancy Center Week” to recognize the vital role that community-supported
pregnancy centers play in saving lives and serving women and men faced with
difficult pregnancy decisions.
S.4801 - Stopping Harmful Incidents to Enforce Lawful Drone Use Act or SHIELD
U Act
This bill would authorize counter-drone measures on and off commercial service
airport property to prevent threats posed by unmanned aircraft systems to persons
or property.
60
S.4820 - Protecting Communications Networks from Chinese Communist Party
Espionage Act
This bill would authorize the Federal Communications Commission to borrow
funds from the Treasury, to be repaid out of auction proceeds, to ensure rural
communications providers have the resources to replace communications
equipment and services to protect their networks from Chinese Communist Party
espionage.
S.4831 - The No Central Bank Digital Currency Act or No CBDC Act
This bill would amend the Federal Reserve Act to Limit the Ability of Federal
Reserve Banks to issue central bank digital currencies.
S.4869 - Saving Privacy Act
This bill would provide more financial privacy for consumers by adjusting the
recording threshold requirements in proportion to inflation for financial institutions.
S.4942 - Watershed Restoration Initiative Act of 2022
This bill would add Utah to the Southwest forest health and wildlife prevention act
of 2004.
S.4945 - Catastrophic Wildfire Prevention Act of 2022
This bill would require the Secretary of Agriculture to establish a pilot program for
the establishment and use of a pre-fire-suppression stand density index, and for
other purposes.
S.4953 - Protect Drug Innovation Act
This bill would repeal prescription drug price control provisions of the Inflation
Reduction Act.
61
 S.4991 - The “Preventing Rampant Online Technological Exploitation and Criminal
Trafficking Act of 2022 or PROTECT Act
This bill would prevent the distribution of intimate visual depictions without
consent.
S.4997 - Promoting Free and Fair Elections Act
This bill would prohibit agencies of the government from soliciting or entering into
agreements with nongovernmental organizations to conduct voter registration or
voter mobilization activities on the property or website of the agency or from using
Federal funds to carry out activities directed under Executive Order 14019, and for
other purposes.
S.4999 - Puerto Rico Recovery Act
This bill would provide exemptions from certain Jones Act restrictions to vessels
providing disaster relief to Puerto Rico for the areas affected by Hurricane Fiona.
S.5000 - No ESG at TSP Act
This bill would amend title 5, United States Code, to prohibit investments of
federal employee retirement funds under the Thrift Savings Plan in certain mutual
funds that make investment decisions based primarily on environmental, social, or
governance criteria, and for other purposes.
S.6 - Biosimilar Red Tape Elimination Act
This bill would increase competition within the biological drug market and
reduce consumer costs by removing some of the red tape around generic brand
pharmaceuticals. And would prohibit the FDA from requiring generic drugs to
undergo switching studies to receive an “interchangeable” designation. Eliminating
this barrier would increase access to lower-cost biosimilars and save payers and
consumers billions over the next five years.
62
S.5171 - Protecting Our Children from the CDC Act
This bill would amend the Public Health Service Act to prohibit the Secretary of
Health and Human Services from placing any vaccine for COVID–19 on the child and
adolescent immunization schedule unless the Secretary has posted on the public
website of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention all clinical data in the
possession of the Department of Health and Human Services relating to the safety
and efficacy of such vaccine, and for other purposes.
S.5244 - A bill making continuing appropriations for fiscal year 2023, extending
various health programs, and for other purposes.
This bill would create a continuing resolution that would provide government
funding into the new year.
S.5259 - The Shielding Children's Retinas from Egregious Exposure on the Net or
SCREEN Act
This bill would direct the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to issue
a rule requiring all commercial pornographic websites to adopt age-verification
technology to ensure children cannot access pornographic content.
S.5260 - The Interstate Obscenity Definition Act
This bill would establish a national definition of obscenity that would apply to
obscene content transmitted via interstate or foreign communications. It would
additionally strengthen the existing prohibition on obscenity by removing the
“intent” requirement that only prohibits the transmission of obscenity to abuse,
threaten, or harass a person.
63
 INTERNSHIPS UTAH INTERNSHIPS DC INTERNSHIPS
State internships are available in our Salt Lake Interns are responsible for a variety of tasks in the
Sen. Lee’s internship program can provide a wealth of experiences for college students looking to grow
City office. DC office including research for legislation, projects,
their skill sets and translate their academic studies to the professional world. Interns assist in a number of
answering phone calls from constituents, giving
duties throughout the office including legislative research and analysis and constituent services.
State interns help with outreach efforts, tours of the United States Capitol Building, attend-
casework, processing and responding to mail, ing hearings, preparing memos, assisting with con-
A limited number of internships are available in both Sen. Lee’s Washington D.C. and Utah offices each
answering constituent calls, and other projects as stituent events, processing mail, and performing a
semester. Priority is given to students attending colleges or universities in Utah or Utahns attending out-of-
needed. variety of other tasks as needed.
state schools.
In addition to full-time state internships, there are Working in the Washington, D.C. office allows stu-
If you or someone you know are interested in an internship with Sen. Lee’s office, visit lee.senate.gov/
part-time options available that account for a full- dents an up-close look at the legislative process, and
senate-internships or call our office at 202-224-5444.
time student's schedule. a better understanding of how Congress makes laws.

64 65
 INTERN SPOTLIGHT
We interviewed Jacob Carlson, who interned in Senator Lee’s Salt Lake and D.C. office, about
his experiences as an intern.

Describe a typical day as an intern?

A typical day as an intern is spent doing a variety of jobs – all of which are equally important in keeping
the office running. Interns are often the first point of contact that Utah constituents will have when
interacting with Senator Lee’s office. Whether we are answering phone calls and recording comments
for the Senator or giving tours of the capitol building, interns play an important role in connecting
with Utah constituents. Interns are also assigned an issue focused legislative team to work with. For
their assigned legislative team, interns will do research, write memos, or assist with whatever else their
legislative team might need. Depending on the needs of the office, interns are often tasked with a
variety of other responsibilities.

What was the highlight/favorite story of the internship?

One of the highlights of my internship has been the opportunity to develop my research and writing
skills. My internship has provided several experiences to work on my research and writing skills in a
uniquely professional environment.

How do you think the internship will help you on your career path/exploring your interests?

My internship has allowed me to develop universal skills in a professional environment. The fast-
paced nature of the internship requires me to be organized in order to meet deadlines and not fall
behind. It has also offered the unique experience of getting feedback on my work from highly qualified
professionals. I have no doubt that the skills I have developed thanks to my internship will serve me well
in my future endeavors.

66 67
 SEN. LEE'S
SOCIAL MEDIA
TWITTER:
@SENMIKELEE

FACEBOOK:
/SENATORMIKELEE

INSTAGRAM:
@SENMIKELEE

WEEKLY NEWSLETTER:
bit.ly/SenLeeNewsletter

WEBSITE:
Find services, updates, news, and contact
information here:

68 69
The Thunderbirds fly in formation at Hill Air Force Base's Warriors over the Wasatch Air Show
 MOBILE OFFICES
Since he took office in 2011, Senator Lee has sought to make his of-
fice accessible to everyone throughout Utah. His staff has held over
1,000 mobile offices, visiting every corner of the state each year.

Senator Lee’s mobile office program provides a unique opportunity

for Senate staff to engage with Utahns in their communities, serv-
ing as a resource for constituents who might not otherwise be able
to meet with caseworkers or other staff in the Senator's Salt Lake,
Ogden, Vernal, or St. George offices.

In 2022, Senator Lee’s staff held over 100 mobile offices across
all of Utah’s 29 counties and will continue to hold mobile offices
throughout the state to ensure every Utahn receives the assistance
they need and has their voice heard.

To request a mobile office in your community or to view future mo-

bile office visits, scan the QR code with your smartphone camera or
visit our website at: www.lee.senate.gov/mobile-offices

Scan here to schedule a Mobile Office

70 71
 Heath Hansen, Southern Utah Director, speaks on a
Nate Jackson, Northern Utah Director, Sen. Lee's staff attends an SLS Rocket booster pannel about NEPA Reforms at the Vernal Energy Joel Brown, Eastern Utah Director,
speaks to new Army Recruits test in Box Elder County Summit helps clean up after floods in Moab.

MEET THE SENATOR'S

STATE STAFF
Senator Lee’s team is comprised of Utahns dedicated to making Utah a better place.

One of Senator Lee’s top priorities is to make his office as open and available as possible. He maintains
four permanent offices across the state in Ogden, Salt Lake City, St. George, and Vernal and offers
hundreds of “mobile offices” in communities across the state every year.

The Senator’s Utah-based staff assists him in community outreach and casework. The outreach team
focuses on building relationships with community leaders, organizations, and other groups in the state.
They work to stay informed about issues important to Utahns and inform the public about the Senator’s
positions and actions. The casework team focuses on helping constituents with specific problems or
concerns.

Senator Lee’s casework team assists Utahns with issues involving agencies like Social Security, Veterans
Affairs, or Immigration. When a constituent contacts the office with a problem or question, the casework
team will work with them to understand their situation and use their knowledge and expertise to find a
solution. This often involves contacting the appropriate federal agency, or they may work with the Senator
Sen. Lee's Utah Staff from Left to Right: Sahrnaz Pourhaggou (Intern), Abby Rosengren (Intern), Nate Jackson (Northern Utah Director), Chris Coombs (Community Liaison), Heath
to advocate for a policy change.
Hansen (Southern Utah Director), Joel Brown (Eastern Utah Director), Robert Axson (State Director), Travis Porter (Caseworker), Emily Wiscombe (Caseworker), Jessica Christopher
72(Casework Director), Derek Anderson (Community Liaison), Colby Walker (State Communications Specialist) 73
 2022 CASEWORK
Cases Worked: 1,630
Cases Closed: 1,154
Highlights:

The daughter of a deceased veteran came to Senator Lee after her mother, who had
been receiving Survivor’s Aid and Attendance benefits, stopped receiving benefits be-
cause her mother filled out the forms incorrectly. Senator Lee’s casework team engaged
the Veterans Affairs Pension Management Center Congressional Liaisons to remedy the
situation. The Aid and Attendance were granted; her Survivor’s Pension monthly pay-
ments resumed, and she received a retroactive payment for the unpaid benefits.

A Utahn requested assistance after being reported deceased to federal agencies. The
Senator's casework team contacted Medicare, where they found an isolated mistake was
made in the Utahn’s file. CMS quickly corrected the mistake, and the issue was resolved.

A Utahn reached out to our office to help with a lost passport. He was scheduled to
leave for the Pacific Islands to attend a family reunion on October 23. Senator Lee’s
team was able to expedite the request, and he received his passport on October 22, the
day before he was scheduled to leave.

Scan here for more about casework

Daggett County

74 75
 STATE STAFF DIRECTORY STATE STAFF DIRECTORY
OUTREACH CASEWORK

Robert Axson Jessica Christopher Emily Wiscombe

State Director Casework Director Caseworker

Email: Robert_Axson@lee.senate.gov Email: Jessica_Christopher@lee.senate.gov Email: Emily_Wiscombe@lee.senate.gov

Phone: (801) 310-4911 Phone: (801) 524-5933 Phone: (801) 524-5933
Issues: Oversees all casework Issues: Veterans, Military Affairs

Nathan Jackson Joel Brown Travis Porter Christopher Smith

Northern Utah Director Eastern Utah Director Caseworker Caseworker

Email: Nathan_Jackson@lee.senate.gov Email: Joel_Brown@lee.senate.gov Email: Travis_Porter@lee.senate.gov Email: Christopher_Smith@lee.senate.gov

Phone: (202) 870-9330 Phone: (202) 603-4617 Phone: (801) 524-5933 Phone: (801) 524-5933
Issues: Military / Aerospace / Veterans / Transportation Issues: Oil / Gas / Small Business Issues: Medicare / Medicaid, Social Security, Post Office Issues: Dept. of Justice / Commerce, FCC/FTC

Heath Hansen Derek Anderson

Southern Utah Director Community Liaison

Email: Heath_Hansen@lee.senate.gov Email: Derek_Anderson@lee.senate.gov

Phone: (202) 577-4602 Phone: (202) 697-0348
Issues: Public Lands / Energy / Ag / FEMA Issues: Mobile Offices / Community Outreach

Chris Coombs Colby Walker

Community Liaison State Communications Specialist The issues listed above only a sample of the issues
Email: Chris_Coombs@lee.senate.gov
Sen. Lee's office assists in. For more information
Email: Colby_Walker@lee.senate.gov
Phone: (801) 524-5933 Phone: (202) 989-5758 scan this QR code with your phone or visit www.
Issues: Religion / Cultural / Non-profit / HUD Issues: Media lee.senate.gov/federal-assistance

76 77
NOTES