Salt Lake City, UT (June 17, 2026) – Today, the Utah Chamber recognized the exceptional legislators who advanced principles of free enterprise during the 2026 General Legislative Session. Honorees were recognized at the Free Enterprise Champion Awards Ceremony for their partnership with the Chamber in supporting policies that strengthen Utah’s economy and communities.
The 2026 session was historic. Lawmakers introduced more than 1,000 bills, passed over 540 pieces of legislation and appropriated a $31.63 billion budget. The Utah Chamber tracked and monitored 260 business-related bills and secured a 100% success rate on all of its 17 priority bills. Priorities advanced new tools to expand Utah’s housing supply, strengthened the workforce talent pipeline, accelerated responsible critical mineral development and supported long-term efforts to protect the Great Salt Lake; among others.
“Utah’s continued prosperity depends on leaders who show up, engage on the hard issues and stand for policies that strengthen our economy,” said Derek Miller, president and CEO of the Utah Chamber. “This year’s Free Enterprise Champions did exactly that. We are grateful for their leadership and for the partnership that makes Utah the best place in the nation to live, work and do business.”
The Utah Chamber recognized the following legislators as 2026 Free Enterprise Champions:
- Senator Scott Sandall
- Senator Evan Vickers
- Representative Doug Owens
- Representative Karen Peterson
The ceremony also featured special recognition of Dick Garlish, president of Rocky Mountain Power, a distinguished Chamber member whose leadership exemplifies these same values.
The awards were presented at the Rotunda of the Utah State Capitol. The event brought together Utah Chamber Board members and stakeholders, Salt Lake Chamber Circle-level members and policymakers for a focused opportunity to recognize leadership, express appreciation and strengthen the relationships that shape Utah’s economic future. Attendees received the Chamber’s 2026 Legislative Scorecard, which highlights key outcomes and provides insight into the 2026 Legislative Session. This event reflects the Chamber’s ongoing commitment to recognizing legislative leadership and strengthening partnerships between the public and private sectors for Utah’s success.
For more information, visit the Utah Chamber website at utchamber.com/legislative-scorecard.
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About the Free Enterprise Champion
The Free Enterprise Champion designation honors select legislators for their exceptional leadership in advancing the principles of free enterprise and for their partnership with the Utah Chamber in supporting policies that strengthen Utah’s economy and communities. In addition, the Utah Chamber also recognizes a distinguished Chamber member whose leadership exemplifies these same values.