WASHINGTON – Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT) and Sen. Mitt Romney’s (R-UT) University of Utah Research Park Act passed the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee on a unanimous vote. This bill would preserve the University of Utah’s nearly 600-acre research park and avoid possible action by the Bureau of Land Management to repurpose the land. Research Park is a center for research and development serving both the University and the local workforce. Research Park is situated on a parcel of land which was transferred to the University by the Bureau of Land Management in 1968. Lee and Romney partnered on this legislation to ensure Research Park remains productive and thriving. The bill is now eligible for consideration by the full Senate.
In a joint statement, Sens. Lee and Romney said, “This is a significant milestone for the bill, which will help preserve the University of Utah’s Research Park and ensure it continues to thrive. We are grateful for the Committee’s support and look forward to our continued work together moving this legislation forward. This bill will positively impact Utah’s economy and will help maintain Utah’s status as a hub for innovation and research.”
After sponsoring companion legislation in the House, Rep. Chris Stewart said, “The important work being done at the University of Utah provides our state with invaluable innovations. I’m proud to stand beside Senator Lee in support of this legislation. And I encourage all of my colleagues to join us in protecting research that will continue to benefit communities across the country.”
University of Utah President Taylor Randall said, “Since its establishment in 1968, Research Park has become a key component in the university’s mission to foster innovation, advance science and contribute to Utah’s strong economy. The forethought of state and federal leaders in making this investment of land to the university has reaped extraordinary success and resulted in a myriad of scientific discoveries and companies that have improved the health and well-being of all Americans. This public-private partnership remains a case study in how major research universities can contribute to the success of their communities. I support this legislation and the resulting positive impact it will have on the university and our state.”
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