Media Advisory: Utah Department of Public Safety Announces Retirement of Commissioner Jess L. Anderson and Appointment of New Commissioner

Salt Lake City, UT — The Utah Department of Public Safety (DPS) announces the retirement of Commissioner Jess L. Anderson after more than 25 years of service to the state of Utah, including the past seven years as Commissioner. Governor Spencer J. Cox has appointed Beau Mason as the new Commissioner of Public Safety, effective July 17th.

Commissioner Anderson’s distinguished career began with the Utah Highway Patrol and spanned multiple leadership roles within DPS. Under his guidance, the department made significant strides in emergency response coordination, community safety initiatives, and legislative engagement. His tenure has been marked by incredible commitment to the mission of Keeping Utah Safe.

“Serving as Commissioner of the Department of Public Safety has been the honor of a lifetime,” said Anderson. “I’m incredibly proud of the work we’ve accomplished and the dedicated professionals I’ve had the privilege of leading. It’s time for me to step into a new chapter with my family, and I leave knowing the department is in capable hands.”

Succeeding Anderson is Commissioner Beau Mason, a 20-year veteran of DPS who most recently served as Deputy Commissioner. In that role, he oversaw key divisions including the Bureau of Emergency Medical Services (EMS), the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI), the Statewide Information and Analysis Center (SIAC), Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST), and the Division of State Security.

Commissioner Mason holds a Master’s Degree in Leadership from Grand Canyon University, a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Southern Utah University, and is completing a second Master’s Degree in Public Safety from the University of Virginia. He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy (290th Session) and Northwestern University’s School of Police Staff and Command.

“I’m deeply honored by the trust Governor Cox and the department have placed in me,” said Commissioner Mason. “Commissioner Anderson has built a strong foundation of excellence, and I look forward to continuing that legacy with the incredible professionals at DPS. Together, we will advance our mission and ensure the safety of Utah’s communities.”
 

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MEDIA CONTACT:
Hillary Koellner
DPS Director of Communications and Public Affairs
[email protected]
385-296-4311