O:9:"MagpieRSS":23:{s:6:"parser";i:0;s:12:"current_item";a:0:{}s:5:"items";a:10:{i:0;a:14:{s:5:"title";s:45:"Stadium Plan Approved for Utah State Fairpark";s:4:"link";s:48:"http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2541";s:8:"comments";s:56:"http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2541#respond";s:7:"pubdate";s:31:"Thu, 14 Jul 2016 18:31:19 +0000";s:2:"dc";a:1:{s:7:"creator";s:14:"Jon Hennington";}s:8:"category";s:17:"Senator Escamilla";s:4:"guid";s:42:"http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/?p=2541";s:11:"description";s:358:"STADIUM PLAN APPROVED FOR UTAH STATE FAIRPARK In less than a year, the Utah State Fairpark will be home to a new 10,000 seat multi-purpose arena. The state portion of the project was approved today by the legislature to replace the &#8230; <a href="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2541">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>";s:7:"content";a:1:{s:7:"encoded";s:2888:"<p style="text-align: left;">
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>STADIUM PLAN APPROVED </strong><strong>FOR UTAH STATE FAIRPARK</strong></p>
<p>In less than a year, the Utah State Fairpark will be home to a new 10,000 seat multi-purpose arena. The state portion of the project was approved today by the legislature to replace the old outdoor Coliseum. The legislation was sponsored in the State Senate by <a href="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/senator-luz-escamilla-biography-and-pictures">Sen. Luz Escamilla</a> (D-Salt Lake).</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/fairpark_0.jpg" rel="attachment wp-att-2542"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2542 aligncenter" src="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/fairpark_0-300x167.jpg" alt="Fairpark Arena" width="300" height="167" srcset="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/fairpark_0-300x167.jpg 300w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/fairpark_0-400x223.jpg 400w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/fairpark_0-500x278.jpg 500w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/fairpark_0.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></a>Fairpark is located on 65 acres on the west side of Salt Lake City at 155 North 1000 West.</p>
<p>“I’m excited for a project twenty years in the making”, says Sen. Escamilla. “Our community is looking forward to the economic development opportunity at the Fairpark as the result of this investment. The arena will elevate the Fairpark to be a crown jewel in our city and our state.”</p>
<p>The $17-million project is a public-private partnership which includes the $10 million in state funding approved today, plus a $3 million contribution from the LDS Church through the <em>Days of ’47</em> organization.  The remainder of the funding will be provided by Salt Lake City and County and other private partners.</p>
<p>The state of the art multi-purpose arena will become the permanent home for the <em>Days of ’47 Rodeo</em>, and will be used to attract other large events seeking a 10,000 seat outdoor venue.</p>
<p>“I am encouraged that our state leaders agree that building a modern, 10,000 seat multi-purpose facility is a wise investment of state funds,” says Sen. Escamilla.</p>
<p>The state-owned Fairpark is operated and managed by the Fairpark and has been in operation at its current location since the state originallypurchased the property in 1902. Future plans and goals of the Fairpark include significant improvements to its infrastructure and operations.</p>
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";}s:3:"wfw";a:1:{s:10:"commentrss";s:53:"http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2541/feed";}s:5:"slash";a:1:{s:8:"comments";s:1:"0";}s:7:"summary";s:358:"STADIUM PLAN APPROVED FOR UTAH STATE FAIRPARK In less than a year, the Utah State Fairpark will be home to a new 10,000 seat multi-purpose arena. The state portion of the project was approved today by the legislature to replace the &#8230; <a href="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2541">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>";s:12:"atom_content";s:2888:"<p style="text-align: left;">
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>STADIUM PLAN APPROVED </strong><strong>FOR UTAH STATE FAIRPARK</strong></p>
<p>In less than a year, the Utah State Fairpark will be home to a new 10,000 seat multi-purpose arena. The state portion of the project was approved today by the legislature to replace the old outdoor Coliseum. The legislation was sponsored in the State Senate by <a href="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/senator-luz-escamilla-biography-and-pictures">Sen. Luz Escamilla</a> (D-Salt Lake).</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/fairpark_0.jpg" rel="attachment wp-att-2542"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2542 aligncenter" src="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/fairpark_0-300x167.jpg" alt="Fairpark Arena" width="300" height="167" srcset="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/fairpark_0-300x167.jpg 300w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/fairpark_0-400x223.jpg 400w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/fairpark_0-500x278.jpg 500w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/fairpark_0.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></a>Fairpark is located on 65 acres on the west side of Salt Lake City at 155 North 1000 West.</p>
<p>“I’m excited for a project twenty years in the making”, says Sen. Escamilla. “Our community is looking forward to the economic development opportunity at the Fairpark as the result of this investment. The arena will elevate the Fairpark to be a crown jewel in our city and our state.”</p>
<p>The $17-million project is a public-private partnership which includes the $10 million in state funding approved today, plus a $3 million contribution from the LDS Church through the <em>Days of ’47</em> organization.  The remainder of the funding will be provided by Salt Lake City and County and other private partners.</p>
<p>The state of the art multi-purpose arena will become the permanent home for the <em>Days of ’47 Rodeo</em>, and will be used to attract other large events seeking a 10,000 seat outdoor venue.</p>
<p>“I am encouraged that our state leaders agree that building a modern, 10,000 seat multi-purpose facility is a wise investment of state funds,” says Sen. Escamilla.</p>
<p>The state-owned Fairpark is operated and managed by the Fairpark and has been in operation at its current location since the state originallypurchased the property in 1902. Future plans and goals of the Fairpark include significant improvements to its infrastructure and operations.</p>
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";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1468521079;}i:1;a:14:{s:5:"title";s:53:"Believe! – Coming soon to a license plate near you!";s:4:"link";s:48:"http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2521";s:8:"comments";s:56:"http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2521#respond";s:7:"pubdate";s:31:"Fri, 04 Mar 2016 02:39:47 +0000";s:2:"dc";a:1:{s:7:"creator";s:14:"Jon Hennington";}s:8:"category";s:73:"2016 General SessionGeneralSenator EscamillaReal Salt LakeRSLYouth soccer";s:4:"guid";s:42:"http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/?p=2521";s:11:"description";s:362:"Sen. Luz Escamilla&#8217;s legislation creating a new specialty plate for Real Salt Lake has passed both houses and will be sent to the Governor for signature! SB64 gives Utah drivers the option to show their Real Salt Lake spirit while &#8230; <a href="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2521">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>";s:7:"content";a:1:{s:7:"encoded";s:2335:"<p>Sen. Luz Escamilla&#8217;s legislation creating a new specialty plate for Real Salt Lake has passed both houses and will be sent to the Governor for signature!</p>
<p><a href="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/20160229_153616-1-1-1.jpg" rel="attachment wp-att-2532"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2532" src="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/20160229_153616-1-1-1-300x225.jpg" alt="20160229_153616-1-1" width="300" height="225" srcset="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/20160229_153616-1-1-1-300x225.jpg 300w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/20160229_153616-1-1-1-768x576.jpg 768w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/20160229_153616-1-1-1-1024x768.jpg 1024w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/20160229_153616-1-1-1-400x300.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></a></p>
<p>SB64 gives Utah drivers the option to show their Real Salt Lake spirit while supporting the Real Salt Lake Foundation&#8217;s efforts to train soccer referees, encourage youth soccer, and help prevent gang activity.  For more information about Real Salt Lake&#8217;s community programs, please visit the <a href="http://www.rsl.com/foundation" target="_blank">RSL Foundation</a>.</p>
<p>Thanks to SB64 co-sponsor Rep. Brad Wilson and Leo the Lion for helping unveil the new plate!</p>
<p><a href="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/20160229_1538342-1.jpg" rel="attachment wp-att-2533"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2533" src="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/20160229_1538342-1-1024x604.jpg" alt="RSL Plate" width="584" height="344" srcset="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/20160229_1538342-1-300x177.jpg 300w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/20160229_1538342-1-768x453.jpg 768w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/20160229_1538342-1-1024x604.jpg 1024w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/20160229_1538342-1-400x236.jpg 400w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/20160229_1538342-1-500x295.jpg 500w" sizes="(max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px" /></a></p>
";}s:3:"wfw";a:1:{s:10:"commentrss";s:53:"http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2521/feed";}s:5:"slash";a:1:{s:8:"comments";s:1:"0";}s:7:"summary";s:362:"Sen. Luz Escamilla&#8217;s legislation creating a new specialty plate for Real Salt Lake has passed both houses and will be sent to the Governor for signature! SB64 gives Utah drivers the option to show their Real Salt Lake spirit while &#8230; <a href="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2521">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>";s:12:"atom_content";s:2335:"<p>Sen. Luz Escamilla&#8217;s legislation creating a new specialty plate for Real Salt Lake has passed both houses and will be sent to the Governor for signature!</p>
<p><a href="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/20160229_153616-1-1-1.jpg" rel="attachment wp-att-2532"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2532" src="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/20160229_153616-1-1-1-300x225.jpg" alt="20160229_153616-1-1" width="300" height="225" srcset="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/20160229_153616-1-1-1-300x225.jpg 300w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/20160229_153616-1-1-1-768x576.jpg 768w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/20160229_153616-1-1-1-1024x768.jpg 1024w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/20160229_153616-1-1-1-400x300.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></a></p>
<p>SB64 gives Utah drivers the option to show their Real Salt Lake spirit while supporting the Real Salt Lake Foundation&#8217;s efforts to train soccer referees, encourage youth soccer, and help prevent gang activity.  For more information about Real Salt Lake&#8217;s community programs, please visit the <a href="http://www.rsl.com/foundation" target="_blank">RSL Foundation</a>.</p>
<p>Thanks to SB64 co-sponsor Rep. Brad Wilson and Leo the Lion for helping unveil the new plate!</p>
<p><a href="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/20160229_1538342-1.jpg" rel="attachment wp-att-2533"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2533" src="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/20160229_1538342-1-1024x604.jpg" alt="RSL Plate" width="584" height="344" srcset="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/20160229_1538342-1-300x177.jpg 300w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/20160229_1538342-1-768x453.jpg 768w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/20160229_1538342-1-1024x604.jpg 1024w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/20160229_1538342-1-400x236.jpg 400w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/20160229_1538342-1-500x295.jpg 500w" sizes="(max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px" /></a></p>
";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1457059187;}i:2;a:14:{s:5:"title";s:33:"Medicaid Dollars and Common Sense";s:4:"link";s:48:"http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2515";s:8:"comments";s:56:"http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2515#respond";s:7:"pubdate";s:31:"Tue, 23 Feb 2016 23:16:37 +0000";s:2:"dc";a:1:{s:7:"creator";s:14:"Jon Hennington";}s:8:"category";s:161:"2016 General SessionHealth CareHealth Care ReformSenator Davis2016 legislative session2016 legislatureAffordable Care Actgene davismedicaidmedicaid expansionutah";s:4:"guid";s:42:"http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/?p=2515";s:11:"description";s:358:"Over 3/4 of Utah residents say they support at least some form of Medicaid expansion, yet the Republicans refuse to budge on this issue.  Their refusal to accept even the minimal expansion proposed by Gov. Herbert last session is a &#8230; <a href="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2515">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>";s:7:"content";a:1:{s:7:"encoded";s:2727:"<p>Over 3/4 of Utah residents say they support at least some form of Medicaid expansion, yet the Republicans refuse to budge on this issue.  Their refusal to accept even the minimal expansion proposed by Gov. Herbert last session is a slap in the face to hard-working Utah families who don&#8217;t earn enough to afford health insurance and who cannot access the tax credits intended to make that insurance affordable.</p>
<p>Full Medicaid expansion isn&#8217;t just the right thing to do; it makes sound financial sense.</p>
<p>The current talk on the Hill is that House Republicans will introduce a bill that will cover only 16,000 or so Utahns and will cost us $30 million.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, Sen. Gene Davis is proposing a full Medicaid expansion that will cover ALL of the over 110,000 Utahns who are eligible for Medicaid under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA), but who haven&#8217;t had the opportunity due to Utah&#8217;s refusal to expand Medicaid.  The plan would cost less than $50 million, and would bring in over $300 million in federal dollars in return every year. Not only is that a sound investment, but it is the right thing to do.</p>
<p>Medicaid expansion is supported by our healthcare providers, by our business community, and by our citizens, but not by Republicans in our Legislature.  Why?</p>
<p>It&#8217;s time to stop playing games with people&#8217;s lives and get this done. Now!</p>
<p>UPDATE: Rep. Dunnigan&#8217;s plan is making it&#8217;s way though the House, but make no mistake. This is NOT Medicaid expansion.  Look at the two plans and compare for yourself.  The choice is simple. Full Medicaid Expansion is both the right thing to do and the smart thing to do.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Medicaid-Comparisons.jpg" rel="attachment wp-att-2518"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2518" src="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Medicaid-Comparisons-1024x307.jpg" alt="Medicaid Comparisons" width="584" height="175" srcset="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Medicaid-Comparisons-300x90.jpg 300w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Medicaid-Comparisons-768x230.jpg 768w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Medicaid-Comparisons-1024x307.jpg 1024w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Medicaid-Comparisons-50x15.jpg 50w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Medicaid-Comparisons-400x120.jpg 400w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Medicaid-Comparisons-500x150.jpg 500w" sizes="(max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px" /></a></p>
";}s:3:"wfw";a:1:{s:10:"commentrss";s:53:"http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2515/feed";}s:5:"slash";a:1:{s:8:"comments";s:1:"0";}s:7:"summary";s:358:"Over 3/4 of Utah residents say they support at least some form of Medicaid expansion, yet the Republicans refuse to budge on this issue.  Their refusal to accept even the minimal expansion proposed by Gov. Herbert last session is a &#8230; <a href="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2515">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>";s:12:"atom_content";s:2727:"<p>Over 3/4 of Utah residents say they support at least some form of Medicaid expansion, yet the Republicans refuse to budge on this issue.  Their refusal to accept even the minimal expansion proposed by Gov. Herbert last session is a slap in the face to hard-working Utah families who don&#8217;t earn enough to afford health insurance and who cannot access the tax credits intended to make that insurance affordable.</p>
<p>Full Medicaid expansion isn&#8217;t just the right thing to do; it makes sound financial sense.</p>
<p>The current talk on the Hill is that House Republicans will introduce a bill that will cover only 16,000 or so Utahns and will cost us $30 million.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, Sen. Gene Davis is proposing a full Medicaid expansion that will cover ALL of the over 110,000 Utahns who are eligible for Medicaid under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA), but who haven&#8217;t had the opportunity due to Utah&#8217;s refusal to expand Medicaid.  The plan would cost less than $50 million, and would bring in over $300 million in federal dollars in return every year. Not only is that a sound investment, but it is the right thing to do.</p>
<p>Medicaid expansion is supported by our healthcare providers, by our business community, and by our citizens, but not by Republicans in our Legislature.  Why?</p>
<p>It&#8217;s time to stop playing games with people&#8217;s lives and get this done. Now!</p>
<p>UPDATE: Rep. Dunnigan&#8217;s plan is making it&#8217;s way though the House, but make no mistake. This is NOT Medicaid expansion.  Look at the two plans and compare for yourself.  The choice is simple. Full Medicaid Expansion is both the right thing to do and the smart thing to do.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Medicaid-Comparisons.jpg" rel="attachment wp-att-2518"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-2518" src="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Medicaid-Comparisons-1024x307.jpg" alt="Medicaid Comparisons" width="584" height="175" srcset="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Medicaid-Comparisons-300x90.jpg 300w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Medicaid-Comparisons-768x230.jpg 768w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Medicaid-Comparisons-1024x307.jpg 1024w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Medicaid-Comparisons-50x15.jpg 50w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Medicaid-Comparisons-400x120.jpg 400w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Medicaid-Comparisons-500x150.jpg 500w" sizes="(max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px" /></a></p>
";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1456269397;}i:3;a:14:{s:5:"title";s:60:"President Obama Issues Healthy Communities Challenge to Utah";s:4:"link";s:48:"http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2465";s:8:"comments";s:56:"http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2465#respond";s:7:"pubdate";s:31:"Mon, 09 Nov 2015 16:50:47 +0000";s:2:"dc";a:1:{s:7:"creator";s:14:"Sylvie Wanlass";}s:8:"category";s:7:"General";s:4:"guid";s:42:"http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/?p=2465";s:11:"description";s:393:"Salt Lake City is one of 20 communities across the country issued the ‘Healthy Communities Challenge’. The community with the highest sign-up percentage of citizens on the Health Insurance Marketplace at HealthCare.gov will receive a visit from President Obama to &#8230; <a href="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2465">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>";s:7:"content";a:1:{s:7:"encoded";s:4220:"<p>Salt Lake<a href="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Healthy-Communities-challange.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2466 alignleft" src="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Healthy-Communities-challange-300x257.jpg" alt="Healthy Communities challange" width="300" height="257" srcset="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Healthy-Communities-challange-300x257.jpg 300w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Healthy-Communities-challange-400x343.jpg 400w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Healthy-Communities-challange.jpg 504w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></a> City is one of 20 communities across the country issued the ‘Healthy Communities Challenge’. The community with the highest sign-up percentage of citizens on the Health Insurance Marketplace at <a href="http://HealthCare.gov" target="_blank">HealthCare.gov</a> will receive a visit from President Obama to tell the whole country about their success.</p>
<p style="padding-left: 210px;">&#8220;Utah, see how easy it is to get health care coverage inexpensively on the health exchange,” states <a href="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/senator-gene-davis-biography-and-pictures" target="_blank">Utah Senator Gene Davis</a>. “The President of the United States has challenged the nearly 200,000 uninsured Utahns to get coverage, see how affordable it is to protect you and your family. Log onto HealthCare.gov, do it today and spread the word!&#8221;</p>
<p>In Utah nearly 8 in 10 people can get healthcare coverage for $75 or less a month on the Health Insurance Marketplace at <a href="http://HealthCare.gov" target="_blank">HealthCare.gov</a>. Last year Utah consumers saved an average of $209 a month thanks to tax credits for Marketplace coverage.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>According to a recent Salt Lake Tribune Op-Ed (<a href="http://www.sltrib.com/opinion/3146708-155/op-ed-nows-the-time-for-more" target="_blank">link</a>):</p>
<p style="padding-left: 30px;">“Getting covered used to mean filling out endless pages of forms – and sometimes even a medical exam. But today, <a href="http://HealthCare.gov" target="_blank">HealthCare.gov</a> makes the process fast and simple – you can shop around, compare plans, and choose the one that works for you and your family. If you, a friend, or family member need health coverage, head over to <a href="http://HealthCare.gov" target="_blank">HealthCare.gov</a> and sign up.”</p>
<p>Here’s the good news about health coverage on the Health Insurance Marketplace at <a href="http://HealthCare.gov">HealthCare.gov</a>:</p>
<ul>
<li>6 million American people now have healthcare coverage</li>
<li>The number of insured citizens has increased significantly</li>
<li>Millions of families not only have the security of healthcare coverage, they now have security knowing that they won’t become bankrupt when they get sick</li>
<li>Insurance companies can NO LONGER deny coverage because of pre-existing conditions</li>
<li>Preventative care like checkups and mammograms are now covered for free</li>
</ul>
<p>Open enrollment is already underway, and if you sign up by Dec. 15, you&#8217;ll have coverage on New Year&#8217;s Day. But no matter what, sign up by Jan. 31 to get coverage next year.</p>
<p>Check it out for yourself! Go to <a href="http://HealthCare.gov" target="_blank">HealthCare.gov</a> or <a href="http://CuidadoDeSalud.gov">CuidadoDeSalud.gov</a> to get information and sign up. Or call 1-800-318-2596 for confidential assistance 24/7 — help is available in more than 200 languages.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/getcoveredslc">#GetCoveredSLC</a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Additional Information:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.hhs.gov/healthcare/facts-and-features/state-by-state/how-aca-is-working-for-utah/index.html" target="_blank">5 Years Later: How the Affordable Care Act is Working for Utah</a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2015/11/06/fact-sheet-healthy-communities-challenge-salt-lake-city" target="_blank">FACT SHEET: Healthy Communities Challenge for Salt Lake City</a></p>
";}s:3:"wfw";a:1:{s:10:"commentrss";s:53:"http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2465/feed";}s:5:"slash";a:1:{s:8:"comments";s:1:"0";}s:7:"summary";s:393:"Salt Lake City is one of 20 communities across the country issued the ‘Healthy Communities Challenge’. The community with the highest sign-up percentage of citizens on the Health Insurance Marketplace at HealthCare.gov will receive a visit from President Obama to &#8230; <a href="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2465">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>";s:12:"atom_content";s:4220:"<p>Salt Lake<a href="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Healthy-Communities-challange.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-2466 alignleft" src="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Healthy-Communities-challange-300x257.jpg" alt="Healthy Communities challange" width="300" height="257" srcset="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Healthy-Communities-challange-300x257.jpg 300w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Healthy-Communities-challange-400x343.jpg 400w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Healthy-Communities-challange.jpg 504w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></a> City is one of 20 communities across the country issued the ‘Healthy Communities Challenge’. The community with the highest sign-up percentage of citizens on the Health Insurance Marketplace at <a href="http://HealthCare.gov" target="_blank">HealthCare.gov</a> will receive a visit from President Obama to tell the whole country about their success.</p>
<p style="padding-left: 210px;">&#8220;Utah, see how easy it is to get health care coverage inexpensively on the health exchange,” states <a href="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/senator-gene-davis-biography-and-pictures" target="_blank">Utah Senator Gene Davis</a>. “The President of the United States has challenged the nearly 200,000 uninsured Utahns to get coverage, see how affordable it is to protect you and your family. Log onto HealthCare.gov, do it today and spread the word!&#8221;</p>
<p>In Utah nearly 8 in 10 people can get healthcare coverage for $75 or less a month on the Health Insurance Marketplace at <a href="http://HealthCare.gov" target="_blank">HealthCare.gov</a>. Last year Utah consumers saved an average of $209 a month thanks to tax credits for Marketplace coverage.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>According to a recent Salt Lake Tribune Op-Ed (<a href="http://www.sltrib.com/opinion/3146708-155/op-ed-nows-the-time-for-more" target="_blank">link</a>):</p>
<p style="padding-left: 30px;">“Getting covered used to mean filling out endless pages of forms – and sometimes even a medical exam. But today, <a href="http://HealthCare.gov" target="_blank">HealthCare.gov</a> makes the process fast and simple – you can shop around, compare plans, and choose the one that works for you and your family. If you, a friend, or family member need health coverage, head over to <a href="http://HealthCare.gov" target="_blank">HealthCare.gov</a> and sign up.”</p>
<p>Here’s the good news about health coverage on the Health Insurance Marketplace at <a href="http://HealthCare.gov">HealthCare.gov</a>:</p>
<ul>
<li>6 million American people now have healthcare coverage</li>
<li>The number of insured citizens has increased significantly</li>
<li>Millions of families not only have the security of healthcare coverage, they now have security knowing that they won’t become bankrupt when they get sick</li>
<li>Insurance companies can NO LONGER deny coverage because of pre-existing conditions</li>
<li>Preventative care like checkups and mammograms are now covered for free</li>
</ul>
<p>Open enrollment is already underway, and if you sign up by Dec. 15, you&#8217;ll have coverage on New Year&#8217;s Day. But no matter what, sign up by Jan. 31 to get coverage next year.</p>
<p>Check it out for yourself! Go to <a href="http://HealthCare.gov" target="_blank">HealthCare.gov</a> or <a href="http://CuidadoDeSalud.gov">CuidadoDeSalud.gov</a> to get information and sign up. Or call 1-800-318-2596 for confidential assistance 24/7 — help is available in more than 200 languages.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/getcoveredslc">#GetCoveredSLC</a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Additional Information:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.hhs.gov/healthcare/facts-and-features/state-by-state/how-aca-is-working-for-utah/index.html" target="_blank">5 Years Later: How the Affordable Care Act is Working for Utah</a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2015/11/06/fact-sheet-healthy-communities-challenge-salt-lake-city" target="_blank">FACT SHEET: Healthy Communities Challenge for Salt Lake City</a></p>
";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1447087847;}i:4;a:14:{s:5:"title";s:71:"Members of Minority Caucus React to the Rejection of Medicaid Expansion";s:4:"link";s:48:"http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2177";s:8:"comments";s:56:"http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2177#respond";s:7:"pubdate";s:31:"Thu, 15 Oct 2015 21:55:49 +0000";s:2:"dc";a:1:{s:7:"creator";s:14:"Sylvie Wanlass";}s:8:"category";s:89:"featuredGeneralHealth CareHealth Care ReformSenator DabakisSenator DavisSenator Escamilla";s:4:"guid";s:42:"http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/?p=2177";s:11:"description";s:388:"Earlier this week, the Utah Access Plus proposal was rejected in the House of Representatives. There will likely be no special session for Medicaid Expansion. Alternatives for covering the gap will be revisited during the 2016 Legislative Session. Senator Davis, &#8230; <a href="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2177">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>";s:7:"content";a:1:{s:7:"encoded";s:1710:"<p>Earlier this week, the Utah Access Plus proposal was rejected in the House of Representatives. There will likely be no special session for Medicaid Expansion. Alternatives for covering the gap will be revisited during the 2016 Legislative Session.</p>
<p>Senator Davis, Minority Leader of the Senate Democrat Caucus, said, “The failure to get any Medicaid Expansion in Utah means we continue to step over tens of thousands of Utahns who need it most. It is incalculable how much this failure will cost Utah&#8217;s economy. Without expanding Medicaid, Utah is continuing to forgo millions of federal dollars. This is money lost to our economy. This shows on the part of the Legislature that there is no desire to make sure those on the lowest income scale have access to health care.&#8221;</p>
<p>Senator Davis continues, “It is a shame that the citizens of our state cannot count on the Legislature to adopt a sensible Medicaid Expansion plan that would provide access to health care for all Utahns. This affects everyone in our state and we cannot keep putting off a solution.”</p>
<p>Senator Escamilla shares her thoughts, “I am disappointed in the lack of action on this critical issue. Once again the most vulnerable residents of our state are suffering from nonsense politics.&#8221;</p>
<p>Immediately following the House&#8217; rejection of the Medicaid Expansion proposal, Utah Access Plus, on Tuesday, Senator Dabakis said, &#8220;<span class="s1">This is a red letter day for stupidity in Utah&#8217;s political history&#8230;</span><span class="s1">The shameful actions of the Utah GOP House put ideology and politics ahead of </span><span class="s1">common sense.&#8221;</span></p>
";}s:3:"wfw";a:1:{s:10:"commentrss";s:53:"http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2177/feed";}s:5:"slash";a:1:{s:8:"comments";s:1:"0";}s:7:"summary";s:388:"Earlier this week, the Utah Access Plus proposal was rejected in the House of Representatives. There will likely be no special session for Medicaid Expansion. Alternatives for covering the gap will be revisited during the 2016 Legislative Session. Senator Davis, &#8230; <a href="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2177">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>";s:12:"atom_content";s:1710:"<p>Earlier this week, the Utah Access Plus proposal was rejected in the House of Representatives. There will likely be no special session for Medicaid Expansion. Alternatives for covering the gap will be revisited during the 2016 Legislative Session.</p>
<p>Senator Davis, Minority Leader of the Senate Democrat Caucus, said, “The failure to get any Medicaid Expansion in Utah means we continue to step over tens of thousands of Utahns who need it most. It is incalculable how much this failure will cost Utah&#8217;s economy. Without expanding Medicaid, Utah is continuing to forgo millions of federal dollars. This is money lost to our economy. This shows on the part of the Legislature that there is no desire to make sure those on the lowest income scale have access to health care.&#8221;</p>
<p>Senator Davis continues, “It is a shame that the citizens of our state cannot count on the Legislature to adopt a sensible Medicaid Expansion plan that would provide access to health care for all Utahns. This affects everyone in our state and we cannot keep putting off a solution.”</p>
<p>Senator Escamilla shares her thoughts, “I am disappointed in the lack of action on this critical issue. Once again the most vulnerable residents of our state are suffering from nonsense politics.&#8221;</p>
<p>Immediately following the House&#8217; rejection of the Medicaid Expansion proposal, Utah Access Plus, on Tuesday, Senator Dabakis said, &#8220;<span class="s1">This is a red letter day for stupidity in Utah&#8217;s political history&#8230;</span><span class="s1">The shameful actions of the Utah GOP House put ideology and politics ahead of </span><span class="s1">common sense.&#8221;</span></p>
";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1444946149;}i:5;a:14:{s:5:"title";s:35:"The Ambassador of China visits Utah";s:4:"link";s:48:"http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2168";s:8:"comments";s:56:"http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2168#respond";s:7:"pubdate";s:31:"Mon, 05 Oct 2015 18:20:11 +0000";s:2:"dc";a:1:{s:7:"creator";s:14:"Sylvie Wanlass";}s:8:"category";s:7:"General";s:4:"guid";s:42:"http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/?p=2168";s:11:"description";s:363:"Today we were honored to have the Ambassador of China, Cui Tiankai, his wife Madame Ni Peijun, and several members of their delegation visit the Utah Senate. Senator Gene Davis?: &#8220;Having the Ambassador of China and his wife in Utah &#8230; <a href="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2168">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>";s:7:"content";a:1:{s:7:"encoded";s:1819:"<p>Today we were honored to have the Ambassador of China, Cui Tiankai, his wife Madame Ni Peijun, and several members of their delegation visit the Utah Senate.</p>
<p>Senator Gene Davis?: &#8220;Having the Ambassador of China and his wife in Utah is always an honor and a pleasure. I am looking forward to growing future relationships with China, and in particular, the Zhejiang Province.&#8221;</p>
<p>Senator Karen Mayne: “It was great meeting with the Ambassador and getting the chance to talk about cooperation and commerce between states and the goodwill shown between people.”</p>
<p>Senator Jim Dabakis: “Back in Utah meeting with Chinese Ambassador Cui Tainkai at Capitol. Special place in my heart for China as my husband Stephen and I lived in Beijing for two dazzling years in 2005-6</p>
<p>Senator Luz Escamilla also joined in this exciting conversation with the Ambassador of China: &#8220;At a great meeting with the Chinese Ambassador and his delegation, honored to participate of these conversations.&#8221;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/China-meeting-group-photo.jpg"><img class="aligncenter wp-image-2169" src="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/China-meeting-group-photo.jpg" alt="China meeting group photo" width="900" height="675" srcset="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/China-meeting-group-photo-300x225.jpg 300w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/China-meeting-group-photo-400x300.jpg 400w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/China-meeting-group-photo.jpg 960w" sizes="(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px" /></a> <a href="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/China-meeting.jpg"><br />
</a></p>
";}s:3:"wfw";a:1:{s:10:"commentrss";s:53:"http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2168/feed";}s:5:"slash";a:1:{s:8:"comments";s:1:"0";}s:7:"summary";s:363:"Today we were honored to have the Ambassador of China, Cui Tiankai, his wife Madame Ni Peijun, and several members of their delegation visit the Utah Senate. Senator Gene Davis?: &#8220;Having the Ambassador of China and his wife in Utah &#8230; <a href="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2168">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>";s:12:"atom_content";s:1819:"<p>Today we were honored to have the Ambassador of China, Cui Tiankai, his wife Madame Ni Peijun, and several members of their delegation visit the Utah Senate.</p>
<p>Senator Gene Davis?: &#8220;Having the Ambassador of China and his wife in Utah is always an honor and a pleasure. I am looking forward to growing future relationships with China, and in particular, the Zhejiang Province.&#8221;</p>
<p>Senator Karen Mayne: “It was great meeting with the Ambassador and getting the chance to talk about cooperation and commerce between states and the goodwill shown between people.”</p>
<p>Senator Jim Dabakis: “Back in Utah meeting with Chinese Ambassador Cui Tainkai at Capitol. Special place in my heart for China as my husband Stephen and I lived in Beijing for two dazzling years in 2005-6</p>
<p>Senator Luz Escamilla also joined in this exciting conversation with the Ambassador of China: &#8220;At a great meeting with the Chinese Ambassador and his delegation, honored to participate of these conversations.&#8221;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/China-meeting-group-photo.jpg"><img class="aligncenter wp-image-2169" src="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/China-meeting-group-photo.jpg" alt="China meeting group photo" width="900" height="675" srcset="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/China-meeting-group-photo-300x225.jpg 300w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/China-meeting-group-photo-400x300.jpg 400w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/China-meeting-group-photo.jpg 960w" sizes="(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px" /></a> <a href="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/China-meeting.jpg"><br />
</a></p>
";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1444069211;}i:6;a:14:{s:5:"title";s:29:"Statement on Hildale Flooding";s:4:"link";s:48:"http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2163";s:8:"comments";s:56:"http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2163#respond";s:7:"pubdate";s:31:"Tue, 15 Sep 2015 22:01:19 +0000";s:2:"dc";a:1:{s:7:"creator";s:14:"Sylvie Wanlass";}s:8:"category";s:7:"General";s:4:"guid";s:42:"http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/?p=2163";s:11:"description";s:375:"The Senate Democrats Release the Following Statement on the Flooding in Washington County: We are saddened over the devastation and tragedy caused by flash flooding in Washington County, Utah. Our thoughts are with the families of the victims and we &#8230; <a href="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2163">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>";s:7:"content";a:1:{s:7:"encoded";s:560:"<p>The Senate Democrats Release the Following Statement on the Flooding in Washington County:</p>
<p>We are saddened over the devastation and tragedy caused by flash flooding in Washington County, Utah. Our thoughts are with the families of the victims and we extend our deepest condolences during this difficult time. We appreciate the efforts of volunteers and first responders as they work to provide support and resources for the areas affected. At this current time, a new flash flood warning has been issued as another storm is expected in the area.</p>
";}s:3:"wfw";a:1:{s:10:"commentrss";s:53:"http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2163/feed";}s:5:"slash";a:1:{s:8:"comments";s:1:"0";}s:7:"summary";s:375:"The Senate Democrats Release the Following Statement on the Flooding in Washington County: We are saddened over the devastation and tragedy caused by flash flooding in Washington County, Utah. Our thoughts are with the families of the victims and we &#8230; <a href="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2163">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>";s:12:"atom_content";s:560:"<p>The Senate Democrats Release the Following Statement on the Flooding in Washington County:</p>
<p>We are saddened over the devastation and tragedy caused by flash flooding in Washington County, Utah. Our thoughts are with the families of the victims and we extend our deepest condolences during this difficult time. We appreciate the efforts of volunteers and first responders as they work to provide support and resources for the areas affected. At this current time, a new flash flood warning has been issued as another storm is expected in the area.</p>
";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1442354479;}i:7;a:14:{s:5:"title";s:90:"Senate Minority Leader Gene Davis Discusses Fight for SB134: Game Fowl Fighting Amendments";s:4:"link";s:48:"http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2157";s:8:"comments";s:56:"http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2157#respond";s:7:"pubdate";s:31:"Thu, 20 Aug 2015 16:40:27 +0000";s:2:"dc";a:1:{s:7:"creator";s:14:"Sylvie Wanlass";}s:8:"category";s:13:"Senator Davis";s:4:"guid";s:42:"http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/?p=2157";s:11:"description";s:395:"The Humane Society of Utah interviewed Senate Minority Leader Gene Davis on the passage of SB 134, Game Fowl Fighting, and named Senator Davis as one of Utah&#8217;s best legal champions for animals. Senator Senator Gene Davis discusses the difficult three year push &#8230; <a href="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2157">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>";s:7:"content";a:1:{s:7:"encoded";s:1842:"<p>The Humane Society of Utah interviewed Senate Minority Leader Gene Davis on the passage of SB 134, Game Fowl Fighting, and named Senator Davis as one of Utah&#8217;s best legal champions for animals.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Gene-Headshot.jpg"><img class=" wp-image-2159 alignright" alt="Gene- Headshot" src="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Gene-Headshot.jpg" width="218" height="297" /></a></p>
<p>Senator <a href="https://www.facebook.com/UTSenatorGeneDavis" data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=694937480557924">Senator Gene Davis</a> discusses the difficult three year push for making game fowl fighting a felony:</p>
<p>&#8220;As its sponsor, I did manage to get the felony cockfighting bill through the Senate all three times. But the first year it died in the House, just sort of laughed off the pages and voted down. The following year, it was basically gutted — the House totally eliminated everything we wanted to accomplish with it.&#8221;This year, it was also watered down to the point where it became almost unrecognizable. As it ended up, cockfighting is a Class B misdemeanor on the first offense, then it progresses to a Class A misdemeanor. We don’t even get to the felony level until there’s a conviction on the third offense. In retrospect, I wish we could have got the bill through in its original form. We need to put an end to this archaic and brutal activity once and for all in Utah. But this is a beginning — it’s much farther than we’ve ever come before.</p>
<div>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Read more on page 4 here:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.utahhumane.org/sites/default/files/docs/newsletter/15SummerHumane.pdf">http://www.utahhumane.org/sites/default/files/docs/newsletter/15SummerHumane.pdf</a></p>
</div>
";}s:3:"wfw";a:1:{s:10:"commentrss";s:53:"http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2157/feed";}s:5:"slash";a:1:{s:8:"comments";s:1:"0";}s:7:"summary";s:395:"The Humane Society of Utah interviewed Senate Minority Leader Gene Davis on the passage of SB 134, Game Fowl Fighting, and named Senator Davis as one of Utah&#8217;s best legal champions for animals. Senator Senator Gene Davis discusses the difficult three year push &#8230; <a href="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2157">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>";s:12:"atom_content";s:1842:"<p>The Humane Society of Utah interviewed Senate Minority Leader Gene Davis on the passage of SB 134, Game Fowl Fighting, and named Senator Davis as one of Utah&#8217;s best legal champions for animals.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Gene-Headshot.jpg"><img class=" wp-image-2159 alignright" alt="Gene- Headshot" src="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Gene-Headshot.jpg" width="218" height="297" /></a></p>
<p>Senator <a href="https://www.facebook.com/UTSenatorGeneDavis" data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=694937480557924">Senator Gene Davis</a> discusses the difficult three year push for making game fowl fighting a felony:</p>
<p>&#8220;As its sponsor, I did manage to get the felony cockfighting bill through the Senate all three times. But the first year it died in the House, just sort of laughed off the pages and voted down. The following year, it was basically gutted — the House totally eliminated everything we wanted to accomplish with it.&#8221;This year, it was also watered down to the point where it became almost unrecognizable. As it ended up, cockfighting is a Class B misdemeanor on the first offense, then it progresses to a Class A misdemeanor. We don’t even get to the felony level until there’s a conviction on the third offense. In retrospect, I wish we could have got the bill through in its original form. We need to put an end to this archaic and brutal activity once and for all in Utah. But this is a beginning — it’s much farther than we’ve ever come before.</p>
<div>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Read more on page 4 here:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.utahhumane.org/sites/default/files/docs/newsletter/15SummerHumane.pdf">http://www.utahhumane.org/sites/default/files/docs/newsletter/15SummerHumane.pdf</a></p>
</div>
";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1440088827;}i:8;a:14:{s:5:"title";s:90:"Prison Relocation: Senator Luz Escamilla Joins Community Members in Opposition of SLC Site";s:4:"link";s:48:"http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2151";s:8:"comments";s:56:"http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2151#respond";s:7:"pubdate";s:31:"Mon, 17 Aug 2015 18:54:44 +0000";s:2:"dc";a:1:{s:7:"creator";s:14:"Sylvie Wanlass";}s:8:"category";s:17:"Senator Escamilla";s:4:"guid";s:42:"http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/?p=2151";s:11:"description";s:363:"Today at a press conference at Riverside Park west of Salt Lake City, legislators and members of the District 1 community came together to speak out against relocating the State Prison to Salt Lake City. Senator Luz Escamilla of District &#8230; <a href="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2151">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>";s:7:"content";a:1:{s:7:"encoded";s:1414:"<p>Today at a press conference at Riverside Park west of Salt Lake City, legislators and members of the District 1 community came together to speak out against relocating the State Prison to Salt Lake City.</p>
<p>Senator Luz Escamilla of District 1 spoke strongly against this relocation stating, &#8220;I will continue to speak up on behalf of the constituents of Senate District 1 on why it is not a good investment to place the new state prison in the west side of the capital city. Not only is it the most expensive site, but it is not a wise economic development decision and continues to disproportionally impact one community in the entire state.&#8221;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Luz-Prison-Relocation-Pic-Fave.jpg"><img class="aligncenter  wp-image-2152" alt="Luz-Prison Relocation Pic Fave" src="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Luz-Prison-Relocation-Pic-Fave-1024x768.jpg" width="574" height="430" srcset="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Luz-Prison-Relocation-Pic-Fave-300x225.jpg 300w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Luz-Prison-Relocation-Pic-Fave-1024x768.jpg 1024w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Luz-Prison-Relocation-Pic-Fave-400x300.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 574px) 100vw, 574px" /></a></p>
";}s:3:"wfw";a:1:{s:10:"commentrss";s:53:"http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2151/feed";}s:5:"slash";a:1:{s:8:"comments";s:1:"0";}s:7:"summary";s:363:"Today at a press conference at Riverside Park west of Salt Lake City, legislators and members of the District 1 community came together to speak out against relocating the State Prison to Salt Lake City. Senator Luz Escamilla of District &#8230; <a href="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2151">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>";s:12:"atom_content";s:1414:"<p>Today at a press conference at Riverside Park west of Salt Lake City, legislators and members of the District 1 community came together to speak out against relocating the State Prison to Salt Lake City.</p>
<p>Senator Luz Escamilla of District 1 spoke strongly against this relocation stating, &#8220;I will continue to speak up on behalf of the constituents of Senate District 1 on why it is not a good investment to place the new state prison in the west side of the capital city. Not only is it the most expensive site, but it is not a wise economic development decision and continues to disproportionally impact one community in the entire state.&#8221;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Luz-Prison-Relocation-Pic-Fave.jpg"><img class="aligncenter  wp-image-2152" alt="Luz-Prison Relocation Pic Fave" src="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Luz-Prison-Relocation-Pic-Fave-1024x768.jpg" width="574" height="430" srcset="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Luz-Prison-Relocation-Pic-Fave-300x225.jpg 300w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Luz-Prison-Relocation-Pic-Fave-1024x768.jpg 1024w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Luz-Prison-Relocation-Pic-Fave-400x300.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 574px) 100vw, 574px" /></a></p>
";s:14:"date_timestamp";i:1439837684;}i:9;a:14:{s:5:"title";s:61:"Senator Escamilla Shares Thoughts on Prison Relocation to SLC";s:4:"link";s:48:"http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2146";s:8:"comments";s:56:"http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2146#respond";s:7:"pubdate";s:31:"Wed, 12 Aug 2015 17:14:01 +0000";s:2:"dc";a:1:{s:7:"creator";s:14:"Sylvie Wanlass";}s:8:"category";s:21:"NewsSenator Escamilla";s:4:"guid";s:42:"http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/?p=2146";s:11:"description";s:441:"Media Statement For Immediate Release Contact: Lisa Beaudry, Communications Director Utah Senate Democrats 801-427-2232 &#124; LisaB@UtahSenateDemocrats.org Senator Luz Escamilla Cell: 801-550-6434 Sad Day for Salt Lake City, its Residents and its Leaders Salt Lake City –Senator Luz Escamilla voices overwhelming &#8230; <a href="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2146">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>";s:7:"content";a:1:{s:7:"encoded";s:2433:"<p>Media Statement</p>
<p><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-2148" alt="Senator Escamilla" src="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Luz-Headshot-200x300.jpg" width="200" height="300" srcset="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Luz-Headshot-200x300.jpg 200w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Luz-Headshot-333x500.jpg 333w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Luz-Headshot.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px" /></p>
<p>For Immediate Release</p>
<p>Contact: Lisa Beaudry, Communications Director<br />
Utah Senate Democrats<br />
801-427-2232 | LisaB@UtahSenateDemocrats.org</p>
<div>
<p>Senator Luz Escamilla<br />
Cell: 801-550-6434</p>
<p>Sad Day for Salt Lake City, its Residents and its Leaders</p>
<p>Salt Lake City –Senator Luz Escamilla voices overwhelming frustration with<br />
location announcement by the Prison Relocation Commission and issues the<br />
following statement:<br />
&#8220;I am truly disappointed with the news that the Prison Relocation<br />
Commission has selected Salt Lake City as the site for the building of the<br />
new state prison,” exclaims Senator Escamilla. “The residents and leaders<br />
of Salt Lake City have been loud and clear when opposing this possible<br />
west side relocation site.”</p>
<p>“I feel a big mistake is being made to build a state prison in this<br />
limited available space area when we should be developing this area for<br />
economic development purposes. The west side of Salt Lake City has been a<br />
helpful and responsible neighbor and stepped up to house the only State<br />
Parole Violator Center (The Fortitude Treatment Center) and several<br />
halfway houses. Instead of this area being asked to bear the<br />
disproportionate burden of having these types of facilities in their<br />
community, the only fair choice would be that the rest of the state share<br />
this responsibility.”</p>
<p>&#8220;I believe this matter is not finished, and I am hopeful members of the<br />
state legislature will consider the importance of a more appropriate<br />
relocation site for the state prison than the west sideof Salt Lake City.<br />
I will be sure to remind them that this vote is a vote on the site and<br />
location, not on prison reform or our state’s criminal justice reform.”</p>
<p>###</p>
</div>
";}s:3:"wfw";a:1:{s:10:"commentrss";s:53:"http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2146/feed";}s:5:"slash";a:1:{s:8:"comments";s:1:"0";}s:7:"summary";s:441:"Media Statement For Immediate Release Contact: Lisa Beaudry, Communications Director Utah Senate Democrats 801-427-2232 &#124; LisaB@UtahSenateDemocrats.org Senator Luz Escamilla Cell: 801-550-6434 Sad Day for Salt Lake City, its Residents and its Leaders Salt Lake City –Senator Luz Escamilla voices overwhelming &#8230; <a href="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/archives/2146">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>";s:12:"atom_content";s:2433:"<p>Media Statement</p>
<p><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-2148" alt="Senator Escamilla" src="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Luz-Headshot-200x300.jpg" width="200" height="300" srcset="http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Luz-Headshot-200x300.jpg 200w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Luz-Headshot-333x500.jpg 333w, http://www.utahsenatedemocrats.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Luz-Headshot.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px" /></p>
<p>For Immediate Release</p>
<p>Contact: Lisa Beaudry, Communications Director<br />
Utah Senate Democrats<br />
801-427-2232 | LisaB@UtahSenateDemocrats.org</p>
<div>
<p>Senator Luz Escamilla<br />
Cell: 801-550-6434</p>
<p>Sad Day for Salt Lake City, its Residents and its Leaders</p>
<p>Salt Lake City –Senator Luz Escamilla voices overwhelming frustration with<br />
location announcement by the Prison Relocation Commission and issues the<br />
following statement:<br />
&#8220;I am truly disappointed with the news that the Prison Relocation<br />
Commission has selected Salt Lake City as the site for the building of the<br />
new state prison,” exclaims Senator Escamilla. “The residents and leaders<br />
of Salt Lake City have been loud and clear when opposing this possible<br />
west side relocation site.”</p>
<p>“I feel a big mistake is being made to build a state prison in this<br />
limited available space area when we should be developing this area for<br />
economic development purposes. The west side of Salt Lake City has been a<br />
helpful and responsible neighbor and stepped up to house the only State<br />
Parole Violator Center (The Fortitude Treatment Center) and several<br />
halfway houses. Instead of this area being asked to bear the<br />
disproportionate burden of having these types of facilities in their<br />
community, the only fair choice would be that the rest of the state share<br />
this responsibility.”</p>
<p>&#8220;I believe this matter is not finished, and I am hopeful members of the<br />
state legislature will consider the importance of a more appropriate<br />
relocation site for the state prison than the west sideof Salt Lake City.<br />
I will be sure to remind them that this vote is a vote on the site and<br />
location, not on prison reform or our state’s criminal justice reform.”</p>
<p>###</p>
</div>
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