Ariel Defay for Utah

04/14/2026

As you can probably tell from some of my policies, I am not social media’s biggest fan. For that reason, I do not spend a lot of time posting or scrolling. That said, I do recognize that it is an important way to stay connected and communicate with those I represent.
After taking a short break following the legislative session, I wanted to check back in and share an update on the bills I was able to pass this year. If you would like to review them in full, you can find them at le.utah.gov.
I am proud of the work we accomplished in strengthening families, addressing affordability, supporting Utah students, and taking thoughtful, responsible approaches to artificial intelligence. I have truly valued the opportunity to do this work and look forward to continuing these efforts during the interim.

04/11/2026

We wrapped up the legislative session in March, and it was, as always, hard work, a lot of learning, and an honor to do the work of the people.

I’m extremely proud of the bills that I, along with many incredible colleagues and stakeholders, was able to pass. Yesterday, we had a ceremonial bill signing with the Governor to celebrate two of those efforts:

HB 273, the Balance Act, which restores balance to the use of technology and AI in the classroom, and
HB 393, Dyslexia Amendments, which provides a groundbreaking approach to screening and intervention. This bill will meaningfully improve literacy outcomes across Utah.

I’m also proud of several other bills we were able to pass this session. If you’re interested, you can view the full list here:

https://le.utah.gov/bills/billSearch.jsp?sess=2026GS&disp=all&sen=&rep=DEFAYA&sub=&comm=

If you’d like to stay engaged during the interim, feel free to reach out or join my newsletter.

It is truly an honor to serve the people of this great state. I love Utah, and I’m committed to keeping our future bright and strong.

01/08/2026

I participated in a press conference yesterday highlighting the Balance Act, and it’s been encouraging to see the conversation continue across Utah’s news this week. I appreciate the opportunity to share why this work matters.

The Balance Act is focused on improving education in a balanced way. It places important limitations on screen time in classrooms and ensures technology is used as a tool to support learning, not replace it. This legislation is about putting students and teachers first and making sure classroom practices truly help kids succeed.

I’m grateful to the parents and educators who have shared their perspectives. Your voices are shaping this effort, and I’m excited to continue the work as we move into the legislative session.

Read all about it!

Utah wants to fix schools by turning screens off.

01/07/2026

Please join me and my colleagues for a town hall meeting on January 13 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Kaysville City Hall.
These town halls are one of my favorite opportunities to meet with constituents, listen to your policy priorities and concerns, and hear what is on your mind as we head into the legislative session. It is also a chance for you to ask questions and engage directly with us.
I hope you will join us.

01/04/2026

Yesterday morning, I arrived at the clerk’s office to file to run once again for my legislative seat in Utah House District 15.

Serving in the House of Representatives has been the honor of a lifetime, and I’m excited to run for another term. I feel strongly that there is still important work to do; protecting children, thoughtfully monitoring and governing AI, strengthening education, and supporting small business development. I’m committed to helping prepare Utah for the future through smart growth in infrastructure and transportation.

I’m grateful for the opportunity to keep working hard for Utah and for Davis County, and I look forward to continuing this work together.

01/01/2026

People often ask me if I am enjoying being a representative, and I usually tell them I love my job 70 percent of the time. And it is true. I love my job! I am happy to announce that I will be filing for reelection in 2026.
I get to interact with amazing people from across the country, attend leadership conferences, and speak with students, business leaders, and everyone in between. I get to hear people’s stories and better understand how our state runs and operates.
One of the things I love most about this role is working with other states and realizing just how well managed and functional the state of Utah truly is. We are blessed to live in what I believe is the greatest state in the nation, and I am especially grateful to have spent another year serving House District 15 and the state of Utah.
While this job certainly comes with its challenging moments, I am thankful for the opportunity to help shape policy that moves Utah toward a brighter future. Thank you for allowing me this incredible opportunity. Happy New Year, and here's to a bright 2026!

12/30/2025

From my family to yours, Happy Holidays!

11/03/2025

Last week I approached government leaders, private industry, philanthropies and religious organizations about launching a coordinated effort to help feed Utah families throughout November. I was graciously encouraged to organize it. In partnership with the Utah Food Bank, we’ve created a statewide campaign called Utah Week of Giving, which will officially launch Monday, November 3rd.

Utah Week of Giving is a statewide, united effort to support families facing food insecurity this November. From Cache County to Carbon County, from Salt Lake to San Juan, Utahns are coming together to ensure every family has food and security this month. You can donate through the Utah Food Bank with the QR Code provided or to your local food bank.

Please share the message! Together, we can make a meaningful difference for Utah families in need. Let’s show what it means to help our neighbors the Utah Way.

09/28/2025

I have so much love and gratitude for the life and example of President Nelson. He was truly a prophet of God and a source of direction and comfort in my life, especially in my political work. Whenever I began to question my role, I looked to his example and reminded myself each day that peacemakers are needed. His leadership and testimony blessed countless lives, including my own. He is a legend of Christlike living and he will be deeply missed.

06/16/2025

One of the recent highlights of my job as a representative was the opportunity to meet with international visitors from Algeria, Iraq, Libya, and Saudi Arabia.

These visitors were in Utah as part of the U.S. Department of State’s International Visitors Leadership Program, exploring the theme Women in Peace, Reconciliation, and Governance. Together, we discussed policy priorities and legislative proposals that support women's progress and well-being, as well as Utah’s laws addressing domestic violence and protecting women’s rights.

Collaborating with these remarkable women from around the world was both inspiring and energizing. It served as a powerful reminder of the many freedoms we enjoy as American women, while also highlighting the ongoing work needed to strengthen those freedoms at home and support progress for women globally.