Republican lawmakers are toying with the idea of convening a joint caucus session (closed to the public) between Senate and House members to candidly discuss Gov. Gary Herbert's plan to provide health care to the state's low-income residents. So stay tuned for that in the coming week. Then check out the Utah Solid and Hazardous Waste meeting, where EnergySolutions will seek permission to dispose of waste on Utah land. Finish off the week with a march urging the University of Utah to divest from fossil fuels.
Republican Closed Caucus Session
Rather than talk publicly about Gov. Gary Herbert's plan to expand health insurance to more than 100,000 low-income residents, Republican lawmakers seem keen on convening an unusual, though apparently legal, private caucus session that would include all 87 members of the GOP's ranks. Republican leaders say the meeting, if it does happen, could take place in the next week. Of course, none of the 17 Democratic lawmakers are allowed to attend. Neither are you. Apparently, a supermajority of Utah's legislature can't talk candidly in the open air about one of the most important issues facing the state. But, if the citizens aren't allowed inside, they might as well speak their minds outside. Check City Weekly's Daily Feed for updates on the date, time and place.
Solid and Hazardous Waste Control Board
Thursday, Feb. 12
The Utah Department of Environmental Quality's Solid and Hazardous Waste Control Board is considering two requests by EnergySolutions. One request from the hazardous-waste-disposal company involves disposal of 24 drums—or 12,000 pounds—of amalgamated mercury that contains PCBs, while another involves disposal through "macro encapsulation" of lithium-thionyl chloride batteries.
Utah Department of Environmental Quality, 105 N. 1950 West, Room 1015, Salt Lake City, Feb. 12, 1:30 p.m., DEQ.Utah.gov
Fossil Fuel Divestment March
Friday, Feb. 13
Supporters of the fossil-fuels-divestment movement will meet at the Rice-Eccles Stadium Trax stop at the University of Utah, then march to President's Circle to urge school leaders to purge the U's endowment of ties to the fossil-fuel industry.
Stadium Trax stop, 451 S. 1400 East, Feb. 13, noon to 1:30 p.m., act.350.org/event/gdd/9914
