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By Lyle Hillyard
Utah State Senator, District 25

The other day, while speaking to the Estate Planning Council for Weber-Davis County about the legislature’s actions this past session, I was asked a very interesting question: How much time does it really take to serve in the legislature? As I tried to answer that question, I realized that it is not the same for everyone. For example, I live 82 miles away from the Capitol, giving me the added burden of travel time and finding a place to stay while in Salt Lake City (it is even worse for those legislators from down south, such as St. George!).

My assignment as Co-Chair of Executive Appropriations is extremely demanding during the session but does not take as much time during the rest of the year. Most were surprised to learn that during the session, most of my days begin before 6:00 am and end after 8:00 pm. I personally would rather spend my evenings with my wife and son, Matt, when he is here. I usually spend all day Saturday working on my legal files to try to stay up with my work at the law office. When we are not in session, there are still numerous meetings to attend throughout the year.

Thank goodness as I get older and want to slow down, I can do so. I don't need to spend as much time studying the issues because the old ones just keep coming back.

Most people who decide to run for this office have no idea the time and work commitment required to be effective. Best of luck to all would-be legislators. May you have the time you need to do the job right.

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