23d200-utah-broadband

PRESS RELEASE: Representative Colin Jack Receives “Friend of Transparency Award”

cam@ainsleyshea.com (Prudhomme) — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 22:11:26 GMT

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SALT LAKE CITY – November 28, 2025 – NoGovInternet and the Utah Taxpayers Association recognized Representative Colin Jack with the “Friend of Transparency Award” in appreciation of his engagement with SB 165, legislation passed during the 2025 General Legislative Session to strengthen taxpayer protections and promote responsible local governance.

[See photo: Representative Colin Jack (left) receives the “Friend of Transparency” Award from NoGovInternet Spokesman Greg Hughes (right).]

SB 165 established new disclosure and bonding standards for cities that consider building taxpayer-funded broadband networks. The law provides Utahns with clear, timely information about long-term financial commitments before public dollars are spent on major infrastructure projects.

Representative Jack voted for the bill in the House Public Utilities and Energy Committee and again on the House floor, contributing to its advancement through both key stages of the legislative process.

“Representative Jack’s participation in committee and on the floor reflected a clear understanding of the bill’s goal—protecting taxpayers and promoting open, responsible decision-making,” said Greg Hughes, spokesman for NoGovInternet. “His engagement and practical perspective helped reinforce confidence in the policy and its implementation.”

“Representative Jack has built a reputation as a thoughtful and solutions-oriented legislator,” added Billy Hesterman, President of the Utah Taxpayers Association.

“His work on SB 165 was consistent with that record, and we are proud to recognize him with this award.”

The “Friend of Transparency” Award was created by NoGovInternet and the Utah Taxpayers Association in March 2025 to honor elected officials who demonstrate responsible leadership and a commitment to protecting taxpayer interests.

PRESS RELEASE: Representative Norman Thurston Receives “Friend of Transparency Award”

cam@ainsleyshea.com (Prudhomme) — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 22:07:35 GMT

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SALT LAKE CITY – November 25, 2025 – NoGovInternet and the Utah Taxpayers Association recognized Representative Norman Thurston with the “Friend of Transparency Award” in appreciation of his support of SB 165, legislation passed during the 2025 General Legislative Session to protect taxpayers and encourage responsible public investment.

[See photo: Representative Norman Thurston (center) receives the “Friend of Transparency” Award from Utah Taxpayers Association President Billy Hesterman (left) and NoGovInternet Spokesman Greg Hughes (right).]

SB 165 created new disclosure and bonding standards for cities that consider building their own taxpayer-funded broadband networks. The law ensures that Utahns have clear information about the costs and long-term commitments associated with major infrastructure projects before public dollars are spent.

“Representative Thurston’s support of SB 165 reflected his consistent focus on good governance and thoughtful policymaking,” said Greg Hughes, spokesman for NoGovInternet. “His vote helped reinforce the principle that Utah taxpayers deserve clarity when it comes to how public funds are used.”

“Representative Thurston has always brought a data-driven, practical approach to legislative work,” added Billy Hesterman, President of the Utah Taxpayers Association. “We appreciate his continued commitment to fiscally sound policy and are pleased to recognize him with this award.”

The “Friend of Transparency” Award was created by NoGovInternet and the Utah Taxpayers Association in March 2025 to honor elected officials who demonstrate a commitment to accountability, responsible leadership, and the protection of taxpayer interests.

PRESS RELEASE: Representative Carl Albrecht Receives “Friend of Transparency Award”

cam@ainsleyshea.com (Prudhomme) — Mon, 20 Oct 2025 13:40:25 GMT

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SALT LAKE CITY – October 20, 2025 – NoGovInternet and the Utah Taxpayers Association recognized Representative Carl Albrecht this week with the “Friend of Transparency Award” in appreciation of his involvement with SB 165, legislation passed during the 2025 General Legislative Session to protect taxpayers and promote responsible local governance.

[See photo: Representative Carl Albrecht (center) receives the “Friend of Transparency” Award from Utah Taxpayers Association President Billy Hesterman (right) and NoGovInternet Spokesman Greg Hughes (left).]

SB 165 established new disclosure and bonding standards for cities considering the construction of taxpayer-funded broadband networks. The law provides Utahns with clear, accessible information about potential financial commitments before local governments undertake major public projects.

Representative Albrecht supported the bill both in the House Public Utilities and Energy Committee and later on the House floor, helping ensure the measure received the thoughtful discussion and consideration it deserved.

“Representative Albrecht’s engagement in committee and on the floor reflected his steady and practical approach to policymaking,” said Greg Hughes, spokesman for NoGovInternet. “His support helped strengthen the legislation and advance its goal of ensuring Utahns have transparency when public funds are at stake.”

“Representative Albrecht has long been a voice for rural Utah and for policies that safeguard taxpayers,” added Billy Hesterman, President of the Utah Taxpayers Association. “His work on SB 165 continued that tradition, and we are pleased to recognize him with this award.”

PRESS RELEASE: Representative Karianne Lisonbee Receives “Friend of Transparency Award”

cam@ainsleyshea.com (Prudhomme) — Fri, 19 Sep 2025 16:16:38 GMT

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SALT LAKE CITY – September 19, 2025 – NoGovInternet and the Utah Taxpayers Association recognized Representative Karianne Lisonbee with the “Friend of Transparency Award” in appreciation of her support of SB 165, a bill designed to protect taxpayers and strengthen responsible governance in Utah.

[See photo: Representative Karianne Lisonbee (center) receives the “Friend of Transparency” Award from Utah Taxpayers Association President Billy Hesterman (right) and NoGovInternet Spokesman Greg Hughes (left).]

Passed during the 2025 General Legislative Session, SB 165 established new disclosure and bonding standards for cities that consider building their own taxpayer-funded broadband networks. These provisions ensure that Utahns are provided with clear information about long-term financial commitments before public funds are used for such projects.

“Representative Lisonbee has always been a steady advocate for Utah taxpayers,” said Greg Hughes, spokesman for NoGovInternet. “Her support for SB 165 reflected that commitment, and we are grateful for her role in strengthening this important policy.”

“Representative Lisonbee’s backing of SB 165 showed her continued focus on fiscal responsibility,” added Billy Hesterman, President of the Utah Taxpayers Association. “We are pleased to recognize her with this award.”

The “Friend of Transparency” Award was created by NoGovInternet and the Utah Taxpayers Association in March 2025 to honor elected officials who demonstrate a strong commitment to accountability, responsible leadership, and the protection of taxpayer interests.

PRESS RELEASE: Senator Karen Kwan Receives “Friend of Transparency Award”

cam@ainsleyshea.com (Prudhomme) — Tue, 16 Sep 2025 16:09:47 GMT

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SALT LAKE CITY – September 16, 2025 – NoGovInternet and the Utah Taxpayers Association honored Senate Minority Whip Karen Kwan this week with the “Friend of Transparency Award” in recognition of her support of SB 165, a bipartisan measure passed during the 2025 General Legislative Session to safeguard taxpayers and strengthen responsible governance.

[See photo: Senate Minority Whip Karen Kwan (center) receives the “Friend of Transparency” Award from Utah Taxpayers Association President Billy Hesterman (right) and NoGovInternet Spokesman Greg Hughes (left).]

SB 165 established new disclosure and bonding standards for cities that consider building their own taxpayer-funded broadband networks. The law ensures that Utahns are provided with clear information about costs and long-term financial commitments before public dollars are used.

“Senator Kwan’s engagement with SB 165 highlights the fact that protecting taxpayers isn't a partisan issue, it's common sense and common ground,” said Greg Hughes, spokesman for NoGovInternet. “Her support reflects a constructive, bipartisan approach that makes good policy stronger.”

“Senator Kwan has consistently worked to ensure Utah families are well represented, and her support of SB 165 reinforced the broad agreement behind this legislation,” added Billy Hesterman, President of the Utah Taxpayers Association. “We are pleased to recognize her commitment with this award.”

The “Friend of Transparency” Award was created by NoGovInternet and the Utah Taxpayers Association in March 2025 to highlight elected officials who exemplify accountability, principled leadership, and the protection of taxpayer interests.

PRESS RELEASE: Senator Luz Escamilla Receives “Friend of Transparency Award”

cam@ainsleyshea.com (Prudhomme) — Fri, 12 Sep 2025 16:13:04 GMT

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SALT LAKE CITY – September 12, 2025 – NoGovInternet and the Utah Taxpayers Association recognized Senate Minority Leader Luz Escamilla this week with the “Friend of Transparency Award” in appreciation of her support of SB 165, legislation strengthening taxpayer protections and responsible governance.

[See photo: Senator Luz Escamilla (center) receives the “Friend of Transparency” Award from Utah Taxpayers Association President Billy Hesterman (left) and NoGovInternet Spokesman Greg Hughes (right).]

SB 165, passed during the 2025 General Legislative Session, requires cities that want to build taxpayer-funded broadband networks to follow strict disclosure and bonding standards. These safeguards ensure Utahns receive clear information and have the ability to understand long-term financial commitments before public dollars are used.

“Senator Minority Leader Escamilla’s support showed that good policy can bring people together across party lines,” said Greg Hughes, spokesman for NoGovInternet. “Senator Escamilla helped reinforce the idea that fiscal responsibility and openness in government are values we all share, regardless of political party.”

“Her willingness to engage constructively on SB 165 reflects the best of public service,” Hughes added. “By putting taxpayers first, she demonstrated how collaboration in the Legislature leads to stronger outcomes for Utah families.”

“Senator Escamilla’s vote underscored the broad consensus behind SB 165,” said Billy Hesterman, President of the Utah Taxpayers Association. “She recognized the importance of giving citizens a full picture before local governments take on debt. We are proud to honor her with this award.”

The “Friend of Transparency” Award was created by NoGovInternet and the Utah Taxpayers Association in March 2025 to highlight elected officials who demonstrate a strong commitment to accountability, responsible leadership, and the protection of taxpayer interests.

PRESS RELEASE: Senator Dan McCay Receives “Friend of Transparency Award”

cam@ainsleyshea.com (Prudhomme) — Fri, 12 Sep 2025 16:04:34 GMT

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SALT LAKE CITY – September 12, 2025 – Senator Dan McCay was presented with the “Friend of Transparency Award” this week by NoGovInternet and the Utah Taxpayers Association in recognition of his support of SB 165, legislation passed during the 2025 General Legislative Session to safeguard taxpayers and strengthen responsible decision-making in local government.

[See photo: Senator Dan McCay (center) receives the “Friend of Transparency” Award from Utah Taxpayers Association President Billy Hesterman (left) and NoGovInternet Spokesman Greg Hughes (right).]

SB 165 created new disclosure and bonding standards for cities considering whether to build their own taxpayer-funded broadband networks. The law ensures that Utahns are given clear, timely information about the potential costs and risks before public funds are committed to major projects.

“Senator McCay engaged directly in the details of SB 165,” said Greg Hughes, spokesman for NoGovInternet. “His support of the bill in committee and on the floor showed diligence in weighing the facts, listening to concerns, and strengthening the final policy. As Chair of the Senate Revenue and Taxation Committee, attention to details comes with the job. You won’t see that work in any headlines but it makes a real difference in the quality of legislation meant to protect Utah families.”

Hughes added. “We appreciate his steady hand and commitment to taxpayers throughout the process.”“Senator McCay’s involvement strengthened confidence in the outcome,” said Billy Hesterman, President of the Utah Taxpayers Association. “His willingness to work through the details helped build consensus around SB 165, and we are proud to honor him with this award.”

PRESS RELEASE: Senator Heidi Balderree Receives “Friend of Transparency Award”

cam@ainsleyshea.com (Prudhomme) — Fri, 12 Sep 2025 15:57:00 GMT

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SALT LAKE CITY – September 12, 2025 – Senator Heidi Balderree was honored this week with the “Friend of Transparency Award” by NoGovInternet and the Utah Taxpayers Association in recognition of her support of SB 165, legislation designed to protect taxpayers and encourage careful public investment.

[See photo: Senator Heidi Balderree (center) receives the “Friend of Transparency” Award from Utah Taxpayers Association President Billy Hesterman (left) and NoGovInternet Spokesman Greg Hughes (right).]

SB 165 created new requirements for cities considering whether to build taxpayer-funded broadband networks. The law mandates disclosure and bonding standards so that Utahns are fully informed of the financial risks and long-term obligations before decisions are made

“Senator Balderree has proven herself to be a consistent advocate for fiscal responsibility,” said Greg Hughes, spokesman for NoGovInternet. “Her support of SB 165 reflected her commitment to ensuring that Utah families are protected from hidden costs or surprises in major public projects.”

“Senator Balderree’s backing of SB 165 highlighted her dedication to careful, commonsense policy,” added Billy Hesterman, President of the Utah Taxpayers Association. “We're pleased to recognize her contributions with this award.”

PRESS RELEASE: Senator Chris Wilson Receives “Friend of Transparency Award”

cam@ainsleyshea.com (Prudhomme) — Mon, 08 Sep 2025 13:45:24 GMT

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LOGAN – September 5, 2025 – NoGovInternet and the Utah Taxpayers Association recognized Utah Senate Majority Whip Chris Wilson this week with the “Friend of Transparency Award” in appreciation of his leadership in the Senate and his role in advancing SB 165, legislation designed to safeguard taxpayers and encourage responsible public investment.

[See photo: Senator Chris Wilson (center) receives the “Friend of Transparency” Award from Utah Taxpayers Association President Billy Hesterman (left) and NoGovInternet Spokesman Greg Hughes (right).]

SB 165, which passed during the 2025 General Legislative Session, requires cities that consider building their own taxpayer-funded broadband networks to meet new disclosure and bonding standards. These safeguards ensure that Utahns are provided with clear information about long-term financial commitments before public dollars are used

Wilson supported the legislation in the Senate Revenue and Taxation Committee and again on the Senate floor, adding weight to its passage and reinforcing its importance as sound fiscal policy.

“Senator Wilson’s leadership and perspective in the Senate added real weight to this effort,” said Greg Hughes, spokesman for NoGovInternet. “His engagement in the committee and on the floor showed how seriously he takes taxpayer protections. As a Senate leader, his involvement strengthened confidence in the bill and the process.”

“Senator Wilson continues to be a steady voice for fiscal responsibility in state government,” added Billy Hesterman, President of the Utah Taxpayers Association. “His leadership in the Senate and his support of SB 165 demonstrated his commitment to careful policymaking, and we are proud to recognize him with this award.”

PRESS RELEASE: Senate President Stuart Adamns Receives “Friend of Transparency Award”

cam@ainsleyshea.com (Prudhomme) — Tue, 02 Sep 2025 21:15:53 GMT

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LAYTON – SEPTEMBER 3, 2025 – Utah Senate President Stuart Adams was recognized this week with the “Friend of Transparency Award,” presented by NoGovInternet and the Utah Taxpayers Association in appreciation of his leadership in the Senate and his support of SB 165, a bill strengthening taxpayer protections in local government.

[See photo: Senate President Stuart Adams (center) receives the “Friend of Transparency” Award from Utah Taxpayers Association President Billy Hesterman (left) and NoGovInternet Spokesman Greg Hughes (right).]

“President Adams has consistently shown steady leadership in the Senate,” said Greg Hughes, spokesman for NoGovInternet. “He has a reputation for keeping the Legislature focused on the long view, making sure Utah continues to thrive not just today but for years to come. His support for SB 165 helped reinforce the importance of careful decision-making when it comes to public dollars. Utahns are well served by his commitment to responsible governance.”

“The world and Utah are in a constant state of change as technology continues to reshape how we communicate with each other. President Adams always seeks to position our state and taxpayers in the strongest position possible to never be left behind.” added Billy Hesterman, President of the Utah Taxpayers Association.

The “Friend of Transparency” Award was created by NoGovInternet and the Utah Taxpayers Association in March 2025 to highlight elected officials who exemplify accountability, responsible leadership, and the protection of taxpayer interests.

PRESS RELEASE: Representative Ryan Wilcox Receives “Friend of Transparency Award”

cam@ainsleyshea.com (Prudhomme) — Tue, 26 Aug 2025 21:09:30 GMT

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OGDEN – August 26, 2025 – NoGovInternet and the Utah Taxpayers Association jointly presented Utah State Representative Ryan Wilcox with the “Friend of Transparency Award” this week in recognition of his leadership as the floor sponsor of SB 165, legislation designed to protect taxpayers and strengthen transparency in local government.

[See photo: Representative Ryan Wilcox (center) receives the “Friend of Transparency” Award from Utah Taxpayers Association President Billy Hesterman (left) and NoGovInternet Spokesman Greg Hughes (right).]

SB 165, passed during the 2025 General Legislative Session, sets new disclosure and bonding standards for cities that want to build and operate their own taxpayer-funded broadband networks. The law ensures that residents receive timely, accurate information and have a clear understanding of the financial risks before public dollars are committed to major infrastructure projects.

“Representative Wilcox provided the leadership needed to guide this bill through the House and make it law,” said Greg Hughes, spokesman for NoGovInternet. “Our role was to help educate and provide context to the public, but it was Rep. Wilcox who carried the responsibility of explaining, defending, and advancing SB 165 at every step. His commitment to open government and accountability to taxpayers was key to its success.”

“Ryan showed real skill in bringing people together around this issue,” Hughes added. “His leadership on the floor ensured that Utah families will have greater transparency and a stronger voice when their communities consider large financial commitments.”

“Representative Wilcox took on the challenge of carrying SB 165 and did so with a steady hand and clear vision,” said Billy Hesterman, President of the Utah Taxpayers Association. “This bill protects taxpayers by requiring transparency before cities take on major projects, and Rep. Wilcox deserves recognition for his work in making that happen.”

The “Friend of Transparency” Award was created by NoGovInternet and the Utah Taxpayers Association in March 2025 to honor elected officials who demonstrate a strong commitment to open government, public accountability, and the protection of taxpayer interests.

PRESS RELEASE: Speaker Mike Schultz Receives “Friend of Transparency Award”

cam@ainsleyshea.com (Prudhomme) — Wed, 20 Aug 2025 20:27:36 GMT

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SALT LAKE CITY – August 20, 2025 – NoGovInternet and the Utah Taxpayers Association jointly presented Utah House Speaker Mike Schultz with the “Friend of Transparency Award” this week in recognition of his support of SB 165, legislation designed to protect taxpayers and strengthen transparency in local government.

[See photo: Utah House Speaker Mike Schultz (center) receives the “Friend of Transparency” Award from Utah Taxpayers Association President Billy Hesterman (left) and NoGovInternet Spokesman Greg Hughes (right).]

“We’re grateful for Speaker Schultz’s steady support throughout the process,” said Greg Hughes, spokesman for NoGovInternet. “Our role was to educate and provide context, and Speaker Schultz made sure this important transparency measure received the attention it deserved. His support reinforced that taxpayers’ voices matter in decisions about major public investments.”

“SB165 gives Utah families more visibility into how their tax dollars are prioritized and spent,” Hughes added. “We appreciate that Speaker Schultz embraces the principles of transparency and accountability which helped elevate the importance that this bill pass and be signed into law.”

“Speaker Schultz has always stood with Utah families when it comes to protecting their hard-earned tax dollars,” said Billy Hesterman, President of the Utah Taxpayers Association. “His support of SB 165 ensures that when cities consider major new projects, the public gets a clear view of the costs and long-term impact. That kind of transparency empowers communities and helps build trust in the decisions being made on their behalf.”

The “Friend of Transparency” Award was created by NoGovInternet and the Utah Taxpayers Association in March 2025 to honor elected officials who demonstrate a strong commitment to open government, public accountability, and the protection of taxpayer interests.

PRESS RELEASE: State Representative Casey Snider Receives “Friend of Transparency Award”

cam@ainsleyshea.com (Prudhomme) — Mon, 28 Jul 2025 19:01:00 GMT

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SALT LAKE CITY – July 28, 2025 – NoGovInternet and the Utah Taxpayers Association jointly presented Utah House Majority Leader Casey Snider with the “Friend of Transparency Award” in recognition of his leadership and support of SB 165, legislation designed to improve transparency and safeguard taxpayer dollars.

[See Photo: House Majority Leader Casey Snider receives the “Friend of Transparency” Award from Utah Taxpayers Association President Billy Hesterman (left) and NoGovInternet Spokesman Greg Hughes (right).]

SB 165, which passed during the 2025 General Legislative Session, requires cities planning to construct taxpayer-funded broadband networks to meet rigorous public disclosure and bonding standards. The bill establishes new protections to ensure residents receive timely, accurate information before cities take on significant debt or long-term financial commitments.

“House Majority Leader Snider leans in when it comes to looking out for his constituents and everyday Utahns,” said Greg Hughes, spokesman for NoGovInternet. “His vote in support of SB 165 wasn’t just a nod to fiscal responsibility, it was a signal to cities that becoming an internet business, with taxpayers covering the bill, will be highly scrutinized by the very taxpayers they represent. We’re grateful for his example, and priority of putting the people first as he continues to serve his constituents and our state in House leadership.”

“Casey understands that government works best when public servants are directly accountable to the people they represent,” Hughes added. “His support helped make this transparency measure a reality, and taxpayers across Utah will benefit from that.”

“Representative Snider is a reliable voice for fiscal responsibility and transparency in state government,” said Billy Hesterman, President of the Utah Taxpayers Association. “He recognizes the importance of involving the public before committing their tax dollars to long-term debt, and we’re proud to honor him with this award.”

The “Friend of Transparency” Award was created by NoGovInternet and the Utah Taxpayers Association in March 2025 to recognize public officials who champion accountability, open processes, and taxpayer protections in state and local governance.

About NoGovInternet
NoGovInternet is an organization dedicated to preventing local municipalities from bonding money to install government-owned broadband networks. Believing that taxpayers should have a voice in their communities, NoGovInternet works to educate citizens and promote transparency in local government decisions across Utah.

About the Utah Taxpayers Association
The Utah Taxpayers Association is a nonpartisan watchdog group that advocates for efficient, transparent, and accountable government at every level. For over 100 years, the Association has worked to ensure that Utah remains a low-tax, pro-growth state where public spending serves the taxpayer.

PRESS RELEASE: State Sen. Lincoln Fillmore Receives “Friend of Transparency Award”

cam@ainsleyshea.com (Prudhomme) — Mon, 28 Apr 2025 19:25:18 GMT

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SALT LAKE CITY – NoGovInternet and the Utah Taxpayers Association jointly presented Utah State Senator Lincoln Fillmore with the “Friend of Transparency Award” on April 26 in recognition of his leadership in passing SB 165—a bill aimed at increasing transparency and protecting taxpayers.

[See photo: Utah State Senator Lincoln Fillmore (center), coming straight from his role of coach of his son’s baseball team, accepts the “Friend of Transparency” Award from Utah Taxpayers Association President Billy Hesterman (left) and NoGovInternet Spokesman Greg Hughes (right).]

Passed during the 2025 General Legislative Session, SB 165 requires cities seeking to build their own broadband networks using public funds to meet public disclosure and bonding standards. The bill outlines transparency requirements and ensures that cities cannot move forward with taxpayer-funded broadband projects without providing residents with clear, timely information.

“Thank you, Senator Fillmore!” said Greg Hughes, spokesman for NoGovInternet. “As we see the new Administration bring greater scrutiny and transparency to our federal government, right here in Utah, Senator Fillmore has brought much needed transparency and accountability with the passage of SB 165. Thanks to his efforts, taxpayers will have a stronger voice and better oversight when it comes to major public projects.”

“Local governments now will have to provide a clear window into how public dollars are prioritized and allocated, preventing significant indebtedness and risk without public awareness and consent,” said Hughes.

“Senator Fillmore put key provisions in state law to protect taxpayers and ensure that government is transparent and responsive to the people,” added Billy Hesterman, President of the Utah Taxpayers Association. “This is consistent with legislation he runs every year, and Utah is fortunate to have him serving in the state legislature.”

The “Friend of Transparency” Award was created by NoGovInternet and the Utah Taxpayers Association in March 2025 to honor elected officials who demonstrate a strong commitment to public accountability, open processes, and taxpayer protection.

Letter to the Editor: Should local governments in Southern Utah bond for broadband?

cam@ainsleyshea.com (Prudhomme) — Thu, 10 Oct 2024 20:03:11 GMT

No Gov Internet Spokesperson penned an op-ed for the St. George News.

The letter asks a critical question: should we risk millions of taxpayer dollars on a venture that could compromise essential public services?

Hughes points out, “taxpayers, not users, are often left carrying the financial burden.” These projects frequently cost millions, diverting funds from essential services like “police and fire, roads, water and sewer.”

Before moving forward, local governments should prioritize what matters most—protecting core services for the community. Read the full letter here .

ICYMI: St. George Event Recap

cam@ainsleyshea.com (Prudhomme) — Fri, 04 Oct 2024 16:27:47 GMT

Missed our event in St. George on 9/28?

Catch the video recap of our discussion on local priorities in Southern Utah here . Stay informed on how these issues impact your community and what we can do to keep the government in its own lane.

NoGovInternet Appears on “Political as Heck Utah” Podcast

cam@ainsleyshea.com (Prudhomme) — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 15:33:00 GMT

Former Speaker of Utah House Greg Hughes appeared on the “Political as Heck Utah” podcast to discuss his role in the NoGovInternet Campaign.

In part, Hughes said, “It’s a 501(c)(4) campaign meant to really educate people because a lot of times when UTOPIA or one of these companies comes to a city council, which have constituents who would like better service, the version of life that they’re giving—there is a lot more to the story. At least more details and information that the public, and even those mayors and city council members ought to be aware of before making a big decision to get into debt and get into that lane as a city to provide internet infrastructure.”

Listen to the full discussion starting at the 4:35 mark here .

Utah State Auditor in Deseret News: Government-owned internet networks hurt taxpayers

cam@ainsleyshea.com (Prudhomme) — Mon, 22 Apr 2024 14:16:55 GMT

Utah State Auditor John Dougall penned an op-ed for the Deseret News, calling out the harm that government-owned internet has inflicted on taxpayers in his state.

In the op-ed, Dougall wrote, "The number of government-owned networks is increasing by the day, and taxpayers, not users, are often footing the bill. Government-owned broadband networks cost millions of dollars and divert essential funding away from services that really matter to the public — services such as police and fire, roads, water and sewer... Public officials across the country, and especially here in Utah, should resist the appealing allure of expanding or deploying government-owned networks, which allure has been shown to be deceptive, and ultimately destructive, to taxpayers."

Read the auditor's full commentary here .

NoGovInternet.com in Deseret News: Is government control of our internet a good idea?

cam@ainsleyshea.com (Prudhomme) — Wed, 27 Mar 2024 14:14:46 GMT

NoGovInternet leader and former Utah House Speaker Greg Hughes recently penned an op-ed for Deseret News, “Is government control of our internet a good idea?”

Among other points in the column, Hughes wrote, “Never once, in over 20 years in the public square, did I meet a single Utahn who asked or demanded that any government, from the state down to the city level, take control of internet infrastructure.”

Read the full op-ed here .

NoGovInternet.com Campaign Launches Video Ad, “Stay In Your Lane,” on Cable TV in Utah

cam@ainsleyshea.com (Prudhomme) — Sun, 10 Dec 2023 15:02:44 GMT

NoGovInternet.com Campaign, a project of the Domestic Policy Caucus, launched a video ad, “Stay In Your Lane,” on cable TV to inform Utahns about the folly of government running and owning the internet.

Watch the ad here .

NoGovInternet.com Announces Campaign to Alert Utahns about Government-Owned and Controlled Internet

cam@ainsleyshea.com (Prudhomme) — Thu, 07 Dec 2023 15:01:01 GMT

In a press release, NoGovInternet.com announced the launch of a statewide campaign to oppose the expansion of government-owned broadband networks. NoGovInternet.com launched this campaign on TV and radio. It will continue to inform and educate Utahns, including outreach via digital ads, direct mail, and other multi-channel communications.

When the government owns and operates your broadband network, it controls the backbone of the internet. Putting local government in control of the speed and flow of information and personal data of its citizens poses real threats to personal freedoms and liberties, and it puts taxpayer dollars at risk.

Nearly 80% of Utah’s residents are seeing their quality of life decrease while their cost of living increases. Utah cities are struggling every day to address population growth in urban and suburban areas while rural Utah continues to struggle to stay afloat with shrinking opportunities and population.

Local government serves citizens best when focusing on growth-related issues such as traffic congestion, scarce water resources, crime, and public safety. Government should smartly partner with the private sector, but when government chooses to compete with, or worse, replace the private sector, it can be catastrophic for generations.

The failed experiments of iProvo and UTOPIA are Utah’s case studies for cities that have veered too far from their core duties and the proper role of government. UTOPIA is a union of city governments that have taxpayers foot the bill, putting public dollars at risk. They do this while competing with and replacing services from private providers.

Former Speaker of the House Greg Hughes will be spearheading this important effort, delivering the information, and opening the black box behind Utah’s government takeover of broadband networks.

“I’ve spent over 15 years in public service and have campaigned for office ten times. I have never met a single person who said they wanted the government to own and control their internet service,” Hughes said.

“I look forward to getting good information that drives good decisions to city leaders, thought leaders, the media, and the taxpayers of Utah. If we see the day when cities have conquered the challenges of growth, water, parks, public safety, and other pressing core duties, they still should not become ‘entrepreneurs’ with their constituents’ tax dollars.”

The Domestic Policy Caucus encourages everyone to join the campaign at www.NoGovInternet.com .

View NoGovInternet.com’s first television ad: “ Not What They Do ”

NoGovInternet.com on FOX13 in Salt Lake City: New TV ads go after UTOPIA and other government-run internet providers

cam@ainsleyshea.com (Prudhomme) — Wed, 06 Dec 2023 14:56:52 GMT

A new TV ad is running in Utah, criticizing government-run internet providers.

The ads are part of a $1 million blitz to warn about problems associated with municipal internet systems, including high costs and a lack of regulatory oversight. The Domestic Policy Caucus is running them under the name NoGovInternet.com.

Watch and read the full story here .

NoGovInternet Launches Campaign Against Government-Owned Broadband in Utah

cam@ainsleyshea.com (Prudhomme) — Thu, 16 Nov 2023 14:53:33 GMT

Today, NoGovInternet.com announced a campaign to defend Utahans from the unneeded, unwanted expansion of government-owned networks like UTOPIA. City-run networks put taxpayers, city budgets, bond-ratings, and consumers at risk.

In a press statement, the campaign said, “The track record of these government-owned networks is disrupted service, higher taxes and fees, lower government bond ratings, years-long wait times, and fleeced taxpayers. Oftentimes, these assets are sold off to private companies for pennies per tax dollar invested.”

“Despite the failure of these city-owned networks, some bureaucrats and politicians continue to seek city, state, and federal tax dollars on a big-government agenda to own the network.’ When government owns the network, it also owns the internet. This is an affront to our principles of free market capitalism and poses a threat to our individual liberties and personal freedoms.”

“Over the course of the next six weeks, we will run a seven-figure statewide media campaign to educate the public on the failure of these government-owned networks and the dangers of a government-owned internet. We are appealing to citizens, activists of all political parties, elected officials, thought leaders, think tanks – indeed, everyone who believes that the private marketplace is more reliable, capable, and dependable to manage a free, safe and secure internet than cities and government bureaucracy.”

No Gov Internet’s first television ad can be viewed here: “ Not What They Do ”

More information is available at NoGovInternet.com.