A lot of conflicting emotions surround this week’s legislative session.

Democratic Senator Patrice Arent passed SCR001, the Anti-bullying resolution, which was wonderful, but not in enough time to save Democratic Representative David Litvack from a few tense hours at the hands of Rep. LaVar Christensen (R).

Litvack’sHB90, the Criminal Penalty Amendments bill (re: the Hate Crimes Bill), endured several 11th hour changes and compromises, made it’s way back to the House floor and passed almost unanimously. There was what seemed to be a spontaneous round of applause and many smiling faces. Whatever the circumstances, it is a great step in the right direction, and Rep. Litvack deserves our deepest respect for this long, arduous fight.

Those who voted against HB90:

David Clark, R-Santa Clara

Margaret Dayton, R-Orem

John Dougall, R-American Fork

Michael Morley, R-Spanish Fork

Stephen Urquhart, R-St. George

Democratic Representative Tim Cosgrove had a pretty good week. He passed HB111, the Booster Seat Bill, out of the House and, as of this writing; it has been introduced to the Senate. Speaking of Rep Cosgrove, we’re waiting to see what happens with H.B. 407, the Counseling for Families of Veterans bill, passed out of committee after testimony from a few veterans, one colonel, and Rep Cosgrove. One Republican Representative was heard to say, “I wish this bill were mine.”

The Legislative session ends next Wednesday and your Democratic Senators and Representatives are still fighting to protect Utah’s values and way of life. It’s a difficult task that they perform, and there are scant few moments of elation, especially this year, but there they go, session after session, doing their best for you. After the session, make sure to send them a letter and let them know you noticed the hard work and sacrifice they’ve made. Oh, and, maybe, send along $4.99* in cookies, as a way to say thanks.

So, with that in mind, may I remind you…

2006 Candidate Filing Period:

Tuesday,
March 7, 2006 to
Friday,
March 17, 2006

*$0.01 under the Lobbyist reporting threshold.