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U.S. Rep. Matheson urges bipartisan action on education, homeland security and economy in Utah address
Summary
U.S. Rep. (name given as Matheson) told the Utah House that the federal government should honor commitments on special education funding, modernize Medicare with prescription drug coverage and pursue short‑term economic stimulus measures; he praised Utah’s Olympic readiness and urged continued volunteerism after the Games.
SALT LAKE CITY — Congressman Matheson addressed the Utah House on Feb. 4, urging lawmakers to work across party lines on education, homeland security and economic recovery and praising Utah’s preparations for the 2002 Winter Olympics.
Matheson said the federal government must meet previously promised funding levels for special education, arguing the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act "promised" a funding share the states have yet to receive. He told the chamber that while federal dollars represent roughly 7% of education spending in Utah, those dollars are important and that IDEA reauthorization would be a priority in Congress.
On economic policy, Matheson described the recession as roughly 10 months old and urged short‑term, immediate stimulus measures that put money quickly into the economy; as an example he suggested temporarily suspending payroll taxes for a month to boost take‑home pay and employer liquidity.
Matheson also said homeland defense and public safety would be a top priority, including support for local first‑responders, and he applauded Utah’s volunteer spirit and readiness for the Olympics. He invited questions from House members on federal roles, security and fiscal policy and answered concerns about civil liberties, the balance between security and freedoms, and the 5‑year sunset on some post‑Sept. 11 federal authorities.
Next steps: Matheson encouraged continued dialogue with state lawmakers on federal funding and program implementation; no formal actions were taken by the House following the address.
