This resolution formally honors the life, historic political service, and lasting legacy of the Honorable Mia Bourdeau Love, former Representative for the State of Utah.
John Curtis
Senator
UT
This resolution formally honors the life and legacy of the Honorable Mia Bourdeau Love, former Representative for the State of Utah. It recognizes her historic achievements, including being the first Black Republican woman elected to Congress, and celebrates her dedication to faith, family, and public service. The resolution directs that a copy be sent to her family and concludes by noting the Senate will adjourn for the day in her memory.
This resolution is a formal tribute, not a new law, but it’s a necessary piece of the legislative machine that acknowledges the service of a former member. Essentially, this is the Senate putting its official stamp on the life and legacy of former Representative Mia Bourdeau Love of Utah, who passed away recently. It doesn't allocate funds or change regulations; it’s Congress taking a moment to say thank you and goodbye for the official record.
The resolution details Rep. Love's path, starting with her birth to Haitian immigrant parents in Brooklyn back in 1975. It highlights the values of faith and hard work that she carried with her when she moved to Utah after college. For those keeping score on political firsts, the resolution makes sure to note her historic achievements: serving on the Saratoga Springs City Council, becoming the first African-American woman elected mayor in Utah in 2009, and then making history again in 2014 as the first Black Republican woman elected to the U.S. House of Representatives. This section is about cementing her story—her advocacy for fiscal responsibility and her focus on family and faith—into the congressional archives for future reference.
While this resolution is purely honorific, it does trigger a couple of specific administrative actions, which is where the legislative branch shows its respect. First, the Secretary of the Senate is directed to notify the House of Representatives that the resolution passed. It’s a procedural heads-up between the two chambers. Second, and perhaps more personally significant, the Secretary must send a formal, signed copy of this resolution directly to Rep. Love's family. This is the official condolence note from the Senate.
The most visible real-world impact of this resolution is a temporary pause in legislative action. The resolution mandates that immediately after its passage, the Senate will officially adjourn for the remainder of the day. This is a traditional, solemn gesture used to honor a deceased former member. For the average person, this means that whatever bill or debate was scheduled for the rest of that day will be pushed to the next session. While it’s a ceremonial slowdown, it’s a clear sign of the high respect the chamber holds for her service and memory.