A greater part of the guest speaker comments and attendee questions were focused on the state’s ongoing revenue projections of $640 million. The discussion among attendees revolved around how to best manage the state’s increase. The legislators responded to questions about the USTAR Economic Development Initiative (UITA’s top legislative priority), tax cuts, tax reform, and the elimination of sales tax and how the legislative process will affect the allocation of these funds. The House Speaker and Senate President also discussed how compromise has been, and will continue to be, key to creating a viable, long-term solution for the revenue allocations.

“As a business executive, this event offered valuable insight into the legislative process, especially tax reform,” said Terry Bagley, CEO of Centershift. “Because of Utah’s surplus there is a unique opportunity to enact innovative reforms that will help businesses - and by extension the state - increase revenue. Through this event and others, UITA continues to provide opportunities that are informative and useful to Utah business leaders.”

During a question and answer session, another topic of particular interest was the USTAR Economic Development Initiative. This bill defines the intended scope of the Utah Science, Technology, and Research Initiative, including: funding of research teams; construction of research buildings at Utah State University and the University of Utah; and the creation of a technology outreach program delivered at strategic locations around the state. Because the bill directly impacts the development of technology, many companies showed a great amount of interest in the status of the bill, which was recently passed by the Senate.

"From small start-ups to successful established companies, the technology industry continues to play a vital role in recruiting high-paying jobs to Utah's economy,” said Richard Nelson, President and CEO of UITA. “This event presented an exceptional opportunity for Utah business leaders to hear directly from law makers about the legislative process and how it impacts business, the community and ultimately the state.”

About UITA
As the premier professional organization for Utah’s more than 3,000 technology companies, the Utah Information Technology Association (UITA) exists to form closer
relationships with industry and community leaders, develop superior management
talent, sharpen professional skills and help gain access to capital. For more
information on UITA, please visit http://www.uita.org.

Agency Contact:
Cheryl Snapp Conner
801-208-1100

UITA:
Richard Nelson
801-568-3500