The Federalism Commission meeting on May 13, 2025, highlighted a strong push for state empowerment and a reevaluation of federal responsibilities. Key discussions centered around the need for Utah to take the lead in addressing issues traditionally managed by the federal government, with a focus on local solutions.

Congressman Mike Kennedy's district director emphasized the goal of making "Utah bigger and DC smaller," advocating for pilot programs that would allow states to manage their own affairs more effectively. He pointed to ongoing transportation challenges in national parks, particularly around Arches, as an example of where state-led initiatives could provide solutions to federal shortcomings.

Kyle Wilson, representing Congresswoman Celeste Malloy, echoed this sentiment, expressing support for the delegation of federal responsibilities to states. He highlighted the potential benefits of replicating successful agreements, such as the Forest Service's good neighbor agreement, to enhance state autonomy.

The meeting also featured insights from Jen Brown, president of Utah Citizens for the Constitution, and Jim Moss, former chair of the Utah State Board of Education, both of whom underscored the importance of federalism in maintaining state authority against perceived federal overreach.

House Representative Ken Ivory wrapped up the discussions by stressing the urgency of restoring structural integrity to government functions. He noted a unique opportunity for bipartisan cooperation on federalism, even among traditionally opposing states, to ensure that decisions are made at the appropriate level of government.

The commission's focus on these themes signals a significant shift towards empowering state governance and addressing the complexities of federal-state relations, with anticipated legislative actions to follow in the coming months.