Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Appointments topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Senate confirms three gubernatorial nominees to juvenile court, corrections and public safety
Summary
The Senate consented to the governor’s appointments of Thomas M. Higbee (juvenile court judge), Michael Shabrias (executive director of Corrections) and Robert Lee Flowers (commissioner of Public Safety); nominees addressed the body during a Committee of the Whole and received confirmation.
Governor Michael O. Leavitt transmitted three nominations to the Senate: Thomas M. Higbee for juvenile court judge (fifth judicial district), Michael Shabrias as executive director of the Department of Corrections, and Robert Lee Flowers as commissioner of the Department of Public Safety.
The Senate recorded a roll‑call consent vote to confirm the appointments and then resolved into a Committee of the Whole to hear brief remarks from each nominee. Judge Higbee described his legal background and his interest in juvenile justice, pledging to work to help troubled youth. Michael Shabrias described his vision for corrections leadership and a focus on public and employee safety and offender success. Robert Flowers spoke about integrity and public service as he prepares to lead the Department of Public Safety and referenced Olympic preparation as an upcoming responsibility.
Following remarks, colleagues offered endorsements. The Senate recorded consent votes and a final motion to dissolve the Committee of the Whole. One senator later requested leave to cast an aye vote that was accommodated in the procedure. The initial consent motion on the appointments carried with 26 yes votes and 3 absences as recorded, and subsequent corrections count the confirmations as approved.
