Utah Priorities Project 2008

Is Utah Really a Low-Wage State?

Written by: Stephen Hershey Kroes

Utah is commonly referred to as a low-wage state, a status which can influence state welfare policies, affect labor market decisions, and deter talented persons from seeking employment within the state. This status is somewhat misleading, however, because it is based on numbers which do not take into account the unique structure of Utah’s labor force. Understanding the socioeconomic factors which influence Utah’s labor force and correcting for this bias reveals that Utah employees receive … Continued

What Can $3,702 Buy? How Utah Compares in Education Spending and Services

Written by: Stephen Hershey Kroes

Many Utahns are familiar with the fact that Utah ranks last in per pupil spending. But what do other states buy with their additional per pupil expenditures? How does Utah’s lower spending level impact schools and learning? This report looks deeper into the differences in education spending between Utah and the U.S. average, comparing specific spending categories, such as instruction, teacher salaries, pupil support, and administration. The report also compares Utah to five demographic peer … Continued

Utah’s Energy Use and Resources: Powering Our Standard of Living

Written by: Stephen Hershey Kroes

How much energy do Utahns consume? How has it changed over time? Where does Utah’s energy come from? What can Utahns can expect for energy prices and supplies in the future? The Utah Priorities Survey ranked energy, including gas prices, as the number one issue of concern for Utahns this year. This report provides data and graphs to illustrate Utah’s current energy situation and trends, and makes these findings:

The 2008 Utah Priorities Survey: The Top Issues and Concerns of Utah Voters for the 2008 Election

Written by: Stephen Hershey Kroes

Throughout this election year, Utah Foundation will work to provide information, analysis, and public dialogue on the issues that matter most to you as you consider the future of Utah. The project began with a survey conducted by Dan Jones and Associates to understand which issues are of greatest concern to voters. The results of this survey are now available here by clicking the links below. The survey found that the top 10 issues for … Continued