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

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.