Local News
Suicide Prevention Month: shift perspectives, raise awareness
Jennifer Thomas | American Fork Citizen
September is Suicide Prevention Month, an important time to shift perception, spread hope and raise awareness of this urgent crisis. The goal of the National Alliance on Mental illness (NAMI) during September is to ensure that individuals, friends and families have access to the resources they need to discuss suicide prevention and to get help.
Suicidal thoughts, like any mental health condition, can affect anyone regardless of demographic. Though common, suicidal thoughts should not be considered normal and often indicate more serious issues. The community impact of suicide makes it a serious public health issue. Unlike many other leading causes of death, suicide continues to claim more lives each year.
In 2022 in the U.S., more than 49,000 people died by suicide and another estimated 1.6 million people attempted suicide, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This amounts to one death by suicide every 11 minutes. Utah’s suicide rate has been consistently higher than the national rate for more than a decade. Utah had the fourteenth highest suicide rate in the U.S. in 2021, according to the Utah Department of Health & Human Services.
Suicide is preventable. Recognizing the warning signs can help prevent it. Research shows that certain behaviors may indicate someone is thinking about suicide, including but not limited to:
● Talking about wanting to die.
● Expressing great guilt or shame.
● Feelings of hopelessness, emptiness or having no reason to live.
● Feeling like a burden to others.
● Feeling extremely sad, anxious or full of rage.
● Experiencing unbearable emotional or physical pain.
● Change in behavior, such as taking risks or increased drug or alcohol use.
● Withdrawal from friends and family, saying goodbye or giving away important items.
“Risk factors for youth suicide include things like having an important relationship end, a perceived failure at school, a sudden loss of personal freedom, the death of a loved one, receiving a serious health diagnosis, an unwanted move or depression,” said Chelsea Frost, prevention coordinator at Lehi Cares Coalition.
Caitlin Thomas—a graduate of Lehi High School, Miss Lehi 2015 and an assistant drill team coach for the Pionettes—is a mental health counselor at Serenity Recovery and Wellness. She spent her year of service as Miss Lehi advocating for suicide prevention, and now it has become her profession. She feels that suicide ideation differs from person to person, but one of the best ways to prevent suicide is to stay connected and take the time to check in with each other.
“The signs of suicidal ideation and suicide vary and can differ from person to person. The best thing we can do for those in our communities is check in and not be afraid to ask uncomfortable and sometimes scary questions,” said Thomas. “If someone you know is struggling, it’s ok to ask them if they have an active suicide plan. Help them recognize there is no shame for having thoughts and that you will be there to help them. If someone does disclose that they have an active plan, seek immediate help from a trusted adult or a professional.”
Studies show that asking someone if they are having thoughts of suicide does not increase the likelihood of a completed suicide, nor does it increase suicidal thoughts.
As a mental health counselor, Thomas feels that we should challenge our personal biases regarding depression and suicide if we want to reduce suicide rates in our communities.
“The greatest thing we can all do is work on our own biases and ideas about what depression and suicidal ideation look like. It is also important for us to challenge our discomfort on these topics so that we can be a true safe space for someone who is struggling. Individuals who struggle with suicidal ideation already believe themselves to be a burden to those in their lives, so becoming distressed when someone discloses to you their feeling could potentially result in them further isolating. It’s important that we validate their feelings without judgment and seek help when necessary. Remember, it is not on you to solve their struggles, but rather to sit with them and help them remember that they are not alone,” said Thomas.
Helen Gardner of Lehi lost a brother to suicide. She is an advocate of suicide prevention and shares her story in hopes of spreading awareness of suicide.
“I will never forget the morning of June 13, 2012. My kids were just 7, 4, 3, and 1 years of age. It was summer, and we were just hanging out at home. My phone rang, and I was excited to see my mom’s name as the caller. As soon as I heard her voice, I knew something was wrong. She told me my brother Anthony had passed away. I didn’t believe it,” Gardner shared.
“Anthony was my big brother, and in my eyes, he was always indestructible. He was my best friend. I finally had the courage to ask my mom how he passed away, and she told me he took his own life. I dropped the phone and just sobbed. I couldn’t believe it. Anthony was a successful actor and model and appeared to be very happy. He was living in Florida at the time, and I lived in Utah. None of my family lived near him, so we were completely unaware that he had been struggling. I wish so badly that I had known that he was having a tough time. I wish I had asked him more how he was really doing and what he was experiencing. I wish I could have helped him,” she continued.
Parents should not be afraid to have hard conversations with their children about suicide.
“Talking about suicide with your child is important for many reasons, but most important, it helps dispel misinformation,” said Thomas.
According to Kristin Francis, child and adolescent psychiatrist, “Suicide impacts almost everyone, directly or indirectly. Hearing about it from a trusted source, like a parent or caregiver, will assist your child with the right information so they can speak to others about it accurately.”
“The best way to help teach children about mental health, specifically suicide, is to be direct and compassionate while also being developmentally aware. A 4-year-old may not be able to comprehend the idea of death by suicide, but we can begin allowing them to recognize their big emotions and create space for them. Eliminating the stigma around emotions is a great place to start with children. As they get older, the conversations can become more expansive,” said Thomas. “You do not have to be perfect or exceptionally astute when having these hard conversations. It will feel scary and a little messy—this is OK. Have the conversation anyway. Model to your children that sometimes being alive means being uncomfortable, but that you are willing to sit with them through it.”
The vast majority of people who have depression do not attempt or die by suicide, but depression is linked to a greater risk of suicide. NAMI reports that “in 2021, 40.9% of adults in Utah reported symptoms of anxiety or depression. 26.4% were unable to get needed counseling or therapy.” Also according to NAMI, “51,000 Utahns aged 12-17 have depression.” Based on these statistics, it is important to work to build a stronger mental health system that provides the care and support needed to help people build better lives.
Gardner said, “I truly believe that there are more people struggling with mental health and depression than we know. I personally dealt with depression four years ago following some medical issues, and it was the hardest thing I’ve gone through. I felt so hopeless and numb, I had no idea what was going on because I had never been through it before. Depression is so scary to experience.”
“While I do feel we have made great progress in recent years eliminating stigma and opening up conversations, there is still more to be done. We can all do our part by educating ourselves and seeking our own level of care when needed,” said Thomas.
There are many resources available within the community to help those struggling with their mental health. One effective and life-saving resource is the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. 988 was launched in 2022 and is a federally-mandated service that has been a lifeline for those struggling with behavioral health crises by connecting them to local crisis workers and community-based resources through a simple three-digit call. 988 is available 24 hours, seven days a week in Spanish and English.
“Anyone can call or text 988 at any time and be connected to a professionally trained and certified counselor. They will help talk you through your experience, whether it is your own or your child’s, and help to connect you with local resources for care,” said Thomas. “Another great place to seek help is the SafeUT App. SafeUT is a crisis chat and tip line that provides real-time crisis intervention for students, parents and guardians, and educators through live chat and a confidential tip line—right from your smartphone. The website, safeut.org, offers resources to educators, parents and students in need of support and care.”
The SafeUT app became available to Utah’s middle and high schools in early 2016. The program was developed with state funding, and the original app was designed and donated by a private company. After seeing its success, the University of Utah redesigned the SafeUT app to ensure its future capabilities to respond to mental health and school safety crises. Starting in 2018, SafeUT expanded its services to Utah elementary schools, higher education institutions and colleges, the Utah National Guard, and Utah’s first responders and their families.
“While we’re still in the early phases of building out our action plan for Lehi youth, we currently provide resources from Live On Utah at our booths that we hold at local events throughout the community. We absolutely recommend that everyone in the community go to liveonutah.org and go through the Suicide Prevention Playbook. It breaks down exactly how every person can play a role in checking in on those around us and what resources we can access for support,” said Frost.
Additional protective factors include frequent contact with providers and effective mental health care.
Thomas said, “Oftentimes we make the mistake of seeing therapy as the last line of defense. However, as a clinician, I see therapy to be much more helpful when sought out before the major crisis. Think about your car—if you do routine maintenance and upkeep, the life of your car is extended. Is routine maintenance sometimes expensive and often inconvenient? It certainly can be, but if we fail to do it, we face much bigger repairs down the line. Therapy can be helpful for anyone at any time. Making time for yourself and your own care is crucial and something each one of us deserves.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a comprehensive public health approach to suicide prevention and it identifies several strategies that communities can undertake. These include such measures as “teaching coping and problem-solving skills to help people manage challenges, expanding options for temporary assistance for those in need and connecting people at-risk to effective and coordinated mental and physical health care.”
Suicide can have lasting effects on individuals, families and communities. The good news is that suicide is preventable. Anyone can help prevent suicide by learning the warning signs, promoting prevention and resilience, and utilizing community resources.
“I am so grateful for those in the community who share their experiences with mental health struggles and share information and resources. I definitely feel like my experience with my brother has made me more aware of those around me. I know that someone can look fine on the outside but be facing the biggest battle on the inside,” Gardner said. “I wish so bad my brother would have had someone to turn to. I can’t change the fact that he didn’t, but I will do everything in my power to take his experience and help those around me.”
“Working as a clinician, I get to witness individuals choose every single day to do the hard work and reclaim their lives. There is so much hope, but it takes each of us to look inward and choose to sit with people in their discomfort compassionately. Remember, you are not alone and there is much more to learn and experience. Please reach out and seek help,” said Thomas. “We are not able to eliminate suffering and hardship, but we can continue to expand our empathy and create a world that is safer for everyone.”
Suicide Prevention Month is more than an important time to shift perception: it is a time to spread hope and awareness throughout the community and remember that you are not alone.
Local News
Two years after opening, Lehi’s Intermountain Health Primary Children’s Hospital – Miller Family Campus expands to meet growing demand
Staff Writer | American Fork Citizen
According to a release from Intermountain, just two years after opening in Lehi, Intermountain Health Primary Children’s Hospital – Miller Family Campus, has become a critical access point for pediatric trauma care and specialty services for children in Utah County and Southern Salt Lake County.
Since opening in 2024, the hospital campus has cared for tens of thousands of children and is already expanding services to meet increasing healthcare needs of children and families in nearby communities.
The hospital just celebrated its second anniversary with a ribbon-cutting ceremony for eight new medical-surgical beds to expand access to patients. Later this year, six new newborn ICU rooms will be added, increasing total inpatient capacity by approximately 20 percent.
In its first two years, Intermountain Primary Children’s Hospital – Miller Family Campus has delivered the following care:
• Trauma cases: 1,107
• Surgical cases: 11,879
• Patient days: 30,372
• Emergency department visits: 39,872
• Clinic visits: 145,099
“These numbers reflect more than volume of patients. They represent families who no longer must travel long distances for specialized pediatric care, and children receiving timely treatment in moments that matter most,” said Lisa Paletta, president of Intermountain Primary Children’s Hospital – Miller Family Campus.
One such patient is 17-year-old Max Braithwaite. After a serious motocross accident in Delta, Utah, Max was being airlifted to Intermountain Primary Children’s Hospital in Salt Lake City when he became unstable mid-flight.
The flight team rerouted and landed at the Lehi campus, saving 10 critical minutes that may have been the difference between life and death.
“They completely saved his life,” said Max’s mother, Ashley. “He wouldn’t have made it to Salt Lake.”
Since the accident, Max has continued to receive follow-up care at the Lehi campus, including both rehabilitation services for his injures and specialty care for Type 1 diabetes – a previously undiagnosed chronic condition that was discovered by Intermountain Primary Children’s Hospital caregivers during his hospital stay.
“The hospital is close to my home because I live in Saratoga Springs and so it’s close and convenient. Everybody there has just been friendly and so supportive, and it’s just well organized, well run. We’re very grateful for their care that Max received,” said Ashley.
Since opening, the Lehi campus has added other important new specialty services, such as the Pectus Center of Excellence, which has already helped 60 patients improve their quality of life through specialized rib cage surgery.
Additionally, the Lehi campus recently started a sports medicine program and plans to install an outdoor sports rehabilitation facility this summer on the campus, where children can work with physical therapists to regain athletic skills after sports injuries.
“Our campus was always designed to grow. This hospital was built with the future in mind, and we’re just getting started. We will continue to add services, expand access, and meet the needs of our growing community for many years to come,” said Paletta.
Ryann Anderegg | American Fork Citizen
Students across Utah County are invited to combine creativity with civic pride in a unique opportunity. In celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States’ independence, the Utah County Elections Division has launched an “I Voted” sticker design contest for students in fifth through ninth grades, giving young artists the chance to have their work distributed to voters throughout the county.
The contest, which is open to all eligible students living in Utah County, calls for original designs that reflect both the spirit of American independence and the identity of the local community. The winning artwork will be featured as the official “I Voted” sticker for the November 2026 General Election.
The contest is about more than just art. It is designed to engage younger generations in the democratic process and to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.
“This is your chance to create a design that represents both America’s 250th birthday and the spirit of Utah County,” the Elections Division shared in its announcement. “We encourage students to make something original, meaningful, and eye-catching.”
The contest offers a range of incentives for participants. The first-place winner will receive $150 and have their design mailed to voters throughout the county. Second place will receive $100, and third place will receive $50. All three top finishers will also be recognized at a Utah County Commission meeting, providing a public platform to celebrate their work.
Students are encouraged to use any artistic medium they prefer, including drawing, painting or digital design. Submissions can be created at any size, but the final design will be scaled down to fit a 2-inch circular sticker. This requirement challenges students to think carefully about composition, clarity and visual impact in a smaller format.
Entries must be submitted by May 8, either electronically via email or in-person at the Utah County Elections Office in Provo. Only one entry per student is allowed. Winners are expected to be announced by May 15.
“I Voted” stickers serve as both a personal badge of participation and a subtle encouragement for others to vote. By allowing students to design the sticker, Utah County is giving the next generation a voice in how that symbol is represented.
Community leaders hope the initiative will spark interest in civic responsibility at an early age. Encouraging students in the contest who are not yet eligible to vote to contribute to an election-related tradition may help foster a lifelong appreciation for civic involvement.
The county looks forward to seeing what the students of Utah County come up with. The contest celebrates both past and future, honoring 250 years of American history while empowering the next generation to help shape its ongoing story.
Jennifer Thomas | American Fork Citizen
MTECH students in Lehi captured 30 medals at the 2026 Utah SkillsUSA competition.
Students secured 11 gold, 11 silver, and eight bronze medals—a record for MTECH. The competition featured the state’s best high school and college talent, tested in practical, technical challenges. SkillsUSA was held March 26-27 at sites across the state, including MTECH Lehi, Bridgerland, Ogden-Weber, and Salt Lake Community College.
The SkillsUSA Statewide Competition is a premier annual event where career and technical education students demonstrate skills in industry-judged contests. Regional winners compete for state championships, with top finishers advancing to the National Leadership & Skills Conference.
“SkillsUSA competitions are created with industry experts to reflect current workforce expectations. Technical standards and scoring rubrics are developed and reviewed by professionals in each field,” said Maile Richardson, Senior Director of Communications at MTECH. “Students compete in events connected to their MTECH program, applying their training in a real-world, competitive setting.”
“Many competitions also require interviews or client interactions, so students must show professionalism, communication, and customer service,” added Richardson.
MTECH students reached milestones this year, earning the college’s first gold in Barbering and a medal in Welding—one of the competition’s most competitive categories,” said Richardson.
MTECH instructors play a key role in preparing students for competition.
“MTECH prepares students for SkillsUSA by building both technical and soft skills. Each competitor is assigned a skills advisor, usually their instructor, who helps them refine skills for weeks before the competition. Advisors are key to student success,” said Richardson.
Both high school and adult MTECH students competed in their categories. Winners from MTECH in Lehi included the following competitors.
Gold Winners
STUDENT NAME , COMPETITION , COMP. CATEGORY
Sydine Paice , Culinary Arts, High School
Amelia Kennicott, Nail Care, High School
Charlotte Westwood, Esthetics, Adult
Keslee Bagley, Barbering, High School
Skyler Farrell, Industrial Motor, Controls Adult
Fenix Taylor and Mercedes Allen
(competed as a team) Mechatronics, High School
Ryan Stradling, CNC Programmer, Adult
Christopher Dixon, CNC 2-Axis Turning Programmer, Adult
Matthew Morris, CNC 3-Axis Milling Programmer, Adult
Logan Perkins, HVAC-R, Adult
Jack Petersen, HVAC-R, High School
Silver Winners
STUDENT NAMES , COMPETITION , COMP. CATEGORY
Haley Osborne, Culinary Arts, Adult
Caleb Meade, Restaurante Service, High School
Alexis Glenn, Nail Care, Adult
Anthony Ramirez, Welding, Adult
Brandon Hernandez and Josua Jardine
(competed as a team) Mechatronics, Adult
Devon Stulce, CNC Programmer, Adult
Joshua Spencer, CNC 2-Axis Turning Programmer, Adult
Berkely Stulce, CNC 3-Axis Milling Programmer, Adult
Dillan Schweinler, Plumbing, Adult
Andrew Richards, HVAC-R, Adult
Liam Cutler, HVAC-R, High School
Bronze Winners
STUDENT NAME, COMPETITION, COMP. CATEGORY
Melissa Bercerra, Baking and Pastry Arts, Adult
Anne Arce, Baking and Pastry Arts, Adult
Abby Wahlquist, Cosmetology, Adult
Paige Terranova, Nail Care, High School
Derick Brinkerhoff, CNC Programmer, Adult
Maxwell Hewett, CNC 3-Axis Milling Programmer, Adult
Alec Dressler, Electrical Construction Wiring, Adult
Jared Stokes, HVAC-R, Adult
The Gold-winning students can compete at the national level. The national competition will take place in June in Atlanta, Georgia.
“We’re incredibly proud of how our students represented MTECH at this year’s competition,” said Richardson, his voice reflecting the pride of the entire team. “Watching their skills recognized in such an exciting arena fills us with genuine joy and gratitude. Their wins truly affirm how meaningful and life-changing MTECH’s training can be.”
These achievements show students’ dedication and MTECH’s commitment to high-quality, career-focused education.
Career and technical education are central to MTECH’s mission of enhancing employability through hands-on, industry-driven training. Participating in SkillsUSA directly supports this goal by allowing students to apply their learning in a real-world, performance-based environment,” said Richardson.
“These students represent the best of technical education,” said Clay Christensen, President of Mountainland Technical College. “We’re proud of their SkillsUSA accomplishments. Their success shows their determination, quality instruction, and strong MTECH support.”
Richardson concluded, “We’re proud to be part of Lehi and to see our students achieve at this level. It’s exciting to watch them represent the city.”
Staff Writer | American Fork Citizen
All Utah County Republican delegates are invited to participate in the Utah County Republican convention this Saturday at Skyridge High School. Several high-profile Utah County races with numerous republican contenders will vie to represent the party in the primary election. Those races include two county commission seats, and a republican nominee will emerge from the county clerk and county recorder races.
The day-long event starts at 7:30 a.m. with a greeting time for candidates and delegates, then registration from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. According to county officials, food trucks will be on site. Delegates are encouraged to bring water and a cushion for more comfortable seating.
The Utah County Democratic Party held its nominating convention earlier in April.
Beky Beaton / Lehi Free Press
The annual flag retirement ceremony for the local area has been scheduled for Wednesday, April 15 at the Quail Cove Amphitheater, 851 E. 700 North in American Fork from 6 to 7:30 p.m.
The event is jointly sponsored by American Legion Post 49, the Veterans of Foreign Wars Honor Guard, and the American Fork Fire & Rescue and Police departments.
It is the authorized ceremony for all communities in North Utah County. All interested residents, including children, are encouraged to attend and participate. Anyone who has a US flag that needs to be disposed of properly is invited to bring it to the ceremony.
The U.S. Flag Code specifies that, “The flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning.”
Key indicators that a flag needs to be retired include:
- Significant fraying or tears: The fly end (outer edge) is heavily frayed or torn and cannot be repaired by trimming and re-hemming.
- Severe fading: The colors are washed out, with red appearing pink and blue looking grey, or the stars are no longer distinct.
- Structural damage: The fabric is thin, transparent, or has holes.
- Damaged components: Grommets are broken or the header is ripped.
- Dirty or mildewed: The flag is heavily soiled or has mildew that cannot be cleaned.
“The American Legion’s Ceremony for Disposal of Unserviceable Flags is a dignified tribute to the U.S. flag and to its symbolism,” said Post 49 adjutant Lloyd Togisala. “This ceremony is both legal and proper, and it is an effective instrument for promoting enhanced respect for the U.S. flag.”
A patriotic program including music and prayers is part of the ceremony.
Burning is the preferred method of disposal for flags made of cotton or other natural fibers. However, flags made of nylon, polyester or other synthetic fabrics should not be burned as they will produce toxic fumes.
Flags made of synthetic materials can be recycled, respectfully buried in a dignified container or cut in pieces for disposal.
Local News
Lehi City Council declines to fund study of ice complex, forgoing possible support from Utah County and NHL franchise
Nichole Coombs and Sally Francom | American Fork Citizen
The Lehi City Council decided not to fund a feasibility study for a potential new ice complex, despite potential support from Utah County and NHL’s Mammoth funding.
The move was supported by all but one council member, Emily Lockhart, who felt like the council was deciding without investigating the data.
“I believe this feasibility study would be a launching point into more conversations,” said Lockhart. “It would give us more analysis.”
The feasibility study would have cost the city $33,000. The money to fund the study would come from RDA funds, not from taxpayers.
“This is our first budget session,” said council member Rachel Freeman. “I’d like to get through that first. I don’t think this is an appropriate time [to do this] as a new council member.”
Redevelopment Agency funds, or RDA, are specialized monies set aside to stimulate economic development.
“I want to be perfectly clear,” said Lockhart. “I do not think using RDA funds for economic opportunities is fiscally irresponsible. I am fiscally responsible, and part of that responsibility is to diversify the type of revenue that Lehi City is getting.”
Council member Heather Newall also agreed that she needed more data before deciding on the study, but ultimately didn’t support it.
“I don’t want to get this wrong,” said Newall. “I don’t have the information I need to make a decision.”
Lockheart agreed they didn’t have much information, but said that’s why the study was needed.
“Even if the feasibility study comes back and says we couldn’t [support the ice center], I would love to be able to show residents why,” said Lockheart. “But instead, when the residents who have expressed interest in this come and ask us why, I will have to say, ‘because this council wouldn’t even ask the questions.’ It’s so frustrating.”
Utah County Commissioner Skyler Beltran, who lives in Lehi, supports considering an ice complex. He said, “The recent demand and economic success of the Provo Peaks Arena, combined with grant opportunities offered through the NHL’s Mammoth, inspired the concept of a second ice complex in Utah County. I’ve collaborated with several partners to raise funds and formally introduce the idea of [an ice complex] to Lehi City, given its strategic location. I think it’s great that Lehi considered the opportunity and started the conversation.”
But Beltran believes there was a potential misunderstanding about funding mechanisms and the potential for a significant sales tax boost to Lehi City coffers.
“There was a misunderstanding [on the part of city officials] regarding the financial structure of this project, both in terms of capital and revenue. The county’s contribution consisted of a mix of external grant funding and tourism tax revenue, which by law cannot be used for general fund expenses like public safety or core government functions.”
Regarding the idea that the ice complex would be a tax burden for local residents, Beltran added, “I would have never brought this project to any of the cities if it resulted in a tax increase.”
Beltran noted that sports venues that attract patrons from a wide geographical area often bring tax dollars to the city.
“The real economic impact comes from ancillary spending at local retail, restaurants and hotels. Ultimately, government is funded in two primary ways, either property tax or sales tax, so it’s important that we strengthen our sales tax tased to reduce reliance on property taxes.”
Other cities are interested in this type of project, Beltran said. “I look forward to working with them as they evaluate it.”
“I’ve heard people say that the county should just do the project, but that’s not how we’re structured. Decades ago, Utah County made the decision not to provide countywide recreation and library services, leaving that to cities, allowing them to control their own PARC tax dollars.”
The county does have funds, however, to aid such a project.
“We’re not aggressively pursuing this project; it is simply a bucket of funds available if a city wants to use them for seed funding.”
Alixel Cabrera | Utah News Dispatch
Utah lawmakers have approved legislation establishing a legal framework for autonomous vehicles, aiming to prepare the state for the eventual arrival of driverless technology while offering clarity on liability in the event of accidents.
Although no autonomous vehicle companies have formally committed to operating in Utah, lawmakers say the bill is designed to attract industry interest by providing legal certainty.
Senate Majority Leader Kirk Cullimore, R-Sandy, who sponsored the measure, said the legislation creates a pathway for people to recover damages if they are injured in crashes involving automated driving systems, while also giving companies clearer expectations before deploying the technology.
“The technology is already here, and we can expect autonomous vehicles to become more common in Utah,” Cullimore said during a House committee hearing. “This bill establishes what that liability framework looks like.”
The legislation outlines several types of legal claims. Individuals who suffer injury or property damage directly caused by an autonomous vehicle must prove that the automated system was a “proximate cause” of the harm. In those cases, damages would be capped at $100,000.
In addition, individuals may pursue negligence claims, with non-economic damages—such as pain and suffering—capped at $1 million. The cap does not apply to economic damages like medical expenses, lost wages or wrongful death.
The bill also allows for claims against manufacturers or developers if a defect in the autonomous vehicle contributed to an accident. Plaintiffs would need to demonstrate that a reasonable alternative design existed and that the vehicle caused more harm than a human driver performing the same task.
Research on the safety of autonomous vehicles remains limited. A University of Central Florida study cited by lawmakers found that while advanced driving systems may reduce the likelihood of accidents overall, they may be more prone to crashes during low-light conditions or while making turns.
The legislation includes a provision requiring lawmakers to revisit the framework in 2030, allowing for adjustments as more data becomes available.
Some legal advocates have raised concerns about the bill’s limitations on damages and its protections for emerging technology. Jake Lee, chair of the legislative committee for the Utah Association for Justice, said in public comments that the measure removes punitive damages and may not yet strike the right balance given the lack of long-term safety data.
Still, supporters argue the framework positions Utah to benefit from technological advancements while maintaining a path for injured individuals to seek compensation.
Megan Wallgren | American Fork Citizen
Utah Lake environmental efforts got a big boost this month with the announcement of $7.7 million in federal funding to support projects focused on habitat restoration, invasive species removal and expanded recreational access.
A large portion of the funding will go to the construction of a new Utah Lake nature and research center. Approximately $4 million has been set aside for the facility, which will be a hub for scientific study, environmental education and community engagement. The project was supported at the federal level by Mike Kennedy and John Curtis.
Another $2.5 million, secured by Representative Burgess Owens, will be used to improve recreational access, including continued development of trails and connections around the lake. This will support a plan by the Mountainland Association of Governments to make the shoreline more accessible for walking, biking and other outdoor activities.
Additionally, $1.2 million will be used for restoration efforts. Overseen by the Utah Lake Authority and Utah County, this funding will be used for invasive species control, specifically removing carp from the lake and phragmites, an aggressive type of reed, from the shoreline.
The funding will be used for projects over several years. It builds on recent federal investments in Utah Lake’s water quality. In 2024, federal funds contributed to a $1 million channel enlargement project to improve water flow to Utah Lake.
Utah County Commissioner Skyler Beltran said, “I’m appreciative that our federal delegation recognizes the importance and potential of Utah Lake by helping bring taxpayer dollars back to Utah County.”
With large-scale investments and improvements, Beltran is hopeful about the future of Utah Lake. “The lake is in the best shape it’s been in decades, and this investment will help us continue improving water quality while expanding recreational access for our community,” he added.
April Slaughter | American Fork Citizen
A recent Lehi drug investigation that uncovered large quantities of marijuana and THC products is reigniting debate among residents about Utah’s cannabis laws. A central issue: whether Utah’s medical marijuana system is accessible enough for patients, and how law enforcement should balance medical legalization with criminal penalties for recreational possession.
This case, involving the Utah County Major Crimes Task Force and Lehi Police, underscores the ongoing conflict between enforcement of marijuana laws and the expansion of regulated medical cannabis in Utah.
The Lehi Police Department said detectives seized large amounts of marijuana-related products and cash after serving a search warrant at a suspected stash house.
Police reported seizing about 74 pounds of THC “dab” and wax products, 25 pounds of marijuana, and 3,100 THC edible packages. They also found over $12,000 in cash, believed to be from drug sales.
Authorities said the investigation began after an anonymous tip to the Utah County Major Crimes Task Force. The tip claimed that marijuana, THC concentrates, and other products were being sold in the area.
The search warrant led officers to a residence in Lehi, suspected of storing and distributing narcotics. Police said the investigation is ongoing.
Utah is among the states where recreational marijuana is illegal. Under current law, possessing marijuana can bring criminal penalties. Utah Public Radio reports that possession of even small amounts can lead to jail time, though lawmakers have sometimes proposed reducing penalties for minor possession.
Utah legalized medical cannabis in 2018 after voters passed Proposition 2. Lawmakers later changed the initiative, creating a tightly regulated system that lets patients with qualifying conditions buy cannabis products from licensed pharmacies.
Since then, the program has grown. By 2025, more than 100,000 patients were registered in Utah’s medical cannabis program, up from a few thousand soon after legalization.
Patients must get a recommendation from a qualified medical provider and apply through the state’s electronic system to obtain a medical cannabis card. Once approved, they can buy products from licensed pharmacies across Utah.
Before a sale, dispensaries must check a patient’s eligibility in the state electronic system. This portal is used by pharmacies, regulators, and law enforcement to verify legal medical cannabis purchases and ensure compliance with state possession limits.
Utah allows 15 licensed medical cannabis pharmacies statewide. These are the only businesses approved to legally sell cannabis products to patients.
Despite the medical program, marijuana enforcement continues statewide with thousands of arrests reported each year.
According to national incident reporting data compiled by advocacy groups, Utah has recorded more than 7,000 marijuana-related arrests in recent years, with most involving possession rather than distribution. For comparison, this indicates that thousands of individuals are arrested annually for marijuana possession in the state.
These statistics highlight the ongoing tension in Utah’s legal landscape, where the medical use of cannabis is permitted, but strict enforcement persists against recreational use.
Utah’s approach reflects a compromise adopted after the passage of Proposition 2, balancing tightly regulated medical access with continued criminal penalties for recreational use.
Reform supporters say penalties are harsh for people using marijuana for health reasons. Opponents often express concerns about impaired driving, youth access, and public safety.
Some Utah residents say the state’s medical cannabis program creates financial barriers.
Patients typically must pay for an appointment with a qualified medical provider before receiving a recommendation for cannabis use. These visits can cost anywhere from roughly $75 to more than $250, depending on the provider.
The state also charges a fee to apply for a medical cannabis card. Insurance does not cover cannabis-related care, so patients must pay out of pocket.
Some residents say these expenses make it hard for people with chronic health problems to get medical cannabis treatment.
Opinions in Utah County vary. Some say medical programs help patients with chronic pain, epilepsy, and other illnesses. Others want strict marijuana laws, even with limited medical use.
Public debates on this issue often appear in online community forums and neighborhood groups. Residents argue about the costs and benefits of Utah’s cannabis policies.
One Utah County resident wrote online that the medical cannabis program’s system can be costly but worthwhile for some patients.
“I paid for the appointment and the card, but it has helped my chronic pain more than anything else I’ve tried,” one Utah County resident wrote in an online public discussion about the program. Another resident supports the medical program but worries about broader legalization.
“Medical access makes sense, but I don’t think Utah should rush into full legalization,” the resident wrote.
This range of opinions underscores the central debate: how Utah should balance access to medical cannabis with continued prohibition and enforcement of recreational use.
Lawmakers have sometimes introduced bills to change how marijuana possession is handled. In 2026, they again considered reducing penalties for first-time possession of small amounts, possibly making some offenses civil infractions instead of criminal charges.
It is uncertain if these efforts will succeed. For now, Utah keeps a dual system: medical cannabis for qualified patients and criminal penalties for recreational possession.
In communities such as Lehi, the question of how to balance marijuana enforcement with access to medical cannabis remains unresolved, shaped by law enforcement actions, legislative changes, and residents’ experiences navigating Utah’s system.
Residents seeking official information about Utah’s medical cannabis laws or the state’s verification system can visit the Utah Department of Health and Human Services’ Center for Medical Cannabis website at medicalcannabis.utah.gov, which provides program rules, patient eligibility information and access to the state’s electronic verification portal.
Megan Wallgren | American Fork Citizen
Residents in northwest Utah County will soon have a new option for getting around, thanks to an on-demand transit program designed to help solve one of the biggest challenges in public transportation: the gap between a transit stop and a rider’s starting or final destination.
After nearly a year of meetings and negotiations, the Utah County Commission finalized an agreement with the Utah Transit Authority to create a “mobility zone” serving parts of Lehi, American Fork, Eagle Mountain and Saratoga Springs. The zone will cover about 77 square miles and serve approximately 181,000 residents.
The new service functions similarly to rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft, but is fully integrated with the region’s public transit system. Riders will be able to request a trip through the UTA app and be picked up near their location and taken to a nearby destination, bus stop or FrontRunner station.
The program is set to begin Aug. 16. Riders will access the service by requesting a ride on the UTA app.
“This service helps address the always-challenging last mile,” Utah County Commissioner Skyler Beltran said in a Facebook post announcing the agreement. “While this is certainly not a major solution to our current traffic mess, it is a meaningful piece of the puzzle.”
The new program will not only provide transportation options but also valuable data about how people travel. By tracking where riders begin and end their trips, planners hope to better identify where future transit investments could have the greatest impact in the fast-growing region.
Similar services were launched in Salt Lake County in 2019. Since that time, it has surpassed 2 million total riders and provided more than 645,000 rides in 2025 alone. That was a 13% increase over the previous year.
Utah County’s system will launch with a fleet of 16 vehicles, half of which will be wheelchair accessible to ensure riders with mobility challenges can also use the service. Trips will cost $3 per ride and allow passengers to travel up to six miles within the zone. However, trips connecting to the FrontRunner stations in Lehi or American Fork will not have a mileage cap.
The fare also includes transfers to other UTA services like buses, TRAX, and FrontRunner within two hours of the initial ride. Riders who already have a UTA transit pass will have the fee covered.
According to Beltran, the system is designed to complement existing transit rather than replace other services.
“It’s integrated with the entire UTA system, so a single trip can connect riders between on-demand service, FrontRunner, TRAX and other transit options,” Beltran said. “It’s really designed to complement the broader transit network.”
The service will operate Monday through Saturday from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., and officials estimate it could provide about 400 rides per day.
Funding for the program will largely come from Utah County’s fifth-fifth sales tax dedicated to transportation. Beltran noted that the entire service costs less to operate than a single fixed-route bus line.
For more information about existing UTA On Demand programs, visit rideuta.com/Services/UTA-On-Demand.
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