WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Mitt Romney (R-UT) joined Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) in introducing the University of Utah Research Park Act, legislation to protect Research Park—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 1965. The legislation would remove an encumbrance from that transfer agreement to ensure Research Park remains productive and thriving. Representatives Chris Stewart (R-UT), John Curtis (R-UT), Burgess Owens (R-UT), and Blake Moore (R-UT) introduced companion legislation in the House.
“With 48 companies, 81 University departments, and a workforce of more than 14,000 people, University of Utah’s Research Park plays a pivotal role in supporting Utah’s strong economy,” Senator Romney said. “Our legislation will ensure that Research Park continues to provide opportunities for Utahns, advance research and development, and foster innovation for years to come.”
“This simple fix will protect the good work and learning that takes place at Research Park,” Senator Lee said. “The Park is home to cutting-edge companies in the biotechnology, pharmaceutical development, and manufacturing spaces. The work they do provides for innovation in their fields and offers first-class opportunities for students to work and learn alongside experts. For the good of Utah and the world, this work must continue.”
“The important work being done at the University of Utah provides our state with invaluable innovations,” Representative Stewart said. “I’m proud to see our entire delegation united in support of this legislation. And I encourage all of my colleagues in Congress to join us in protecting research that will continue to benefit communities across the country.”
“I appreciate the work of the Utah delegation, coming together on a solution that ensures future research at the University of Utah,” Representative Curtis said. “Research Park and other centers across the state are vital for advancements in many industries and I am proud of this important effort.”
“Since 1968, the University of Utah Research Park has sparked unmatched innovation and opportunity for students across our state,” Representative Owens said. “I’m proud to stand with Utah’s federal delegation in support of this legislation to expand and protect this invaluable public-private partnership.”
“I am proud to support this important effort,” Representative Moore said. “The work happening at Research Park plays a pivotal role in exploring and advancing the creative and innovative ideas that have always been part of Utah’s DNA.”
“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,” University of Utah President Taylor Randall said. “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.”