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February 13, 2024
Utah House Democratic Caucus Champions Sustainable Water Policies During Utah’s 2024 Legislative Session
"As the 2024 Legislative Session’s Water Week unfolds, the Utah House Democrats reaffirm their commitment to championing sustainable water policies that safeguard the Great Salt Lake and preserve the state’s invaluable water resources. Amidst the pressing challenges of climate change, growing concerns about water scarcity, and environmental degradation, the caucus is proud to introduce a series of forward-thinking legislative initiatives aimed at ensuring a healthier and more resilient future for Utah’s environment.
House Minority Leader, Representative Angela Romero, emphasizes the vital role of collective responsibility in addressing Utah’s water challenges. “As stewards of our state’s natural resources, it’s imperative for the Utah State Legislature to recognize our shared responsibility in preserving Utah’s water ecosystems. Through collaboration and concerted efforts, we can bring about significant changes to ensure the preservation of Utah’s water resources.”
Members of the caucus are spearheading legislation that tackles critical water conservation and management challenges facing the state. From innovative water education initiatives to strategic funding requests, the Utah House Democrats are driving a comprehensive agenda designed to address the complex issues surrounding water usage and preservation.
Representative Doug Owens stresses the urgent need to address the threats to the Great Salt Lake and its surrounding environment. “Conserving water and the environment isn’t merely a choice, but an essential action for our state’s prosperity. Implementing policies that promote water conservation and securing funding for environmental initiatives are vital steps toward ensuring a sustainable future for our state. I encourage everyone to join in ensuring the passage of every piece of legislation aimed at protecting our great lake and environment during this session.”
Key Policies and Initiatives
2024 Bills:
HB 11 Water Efficient Landscaping Requirements: Aims to conserve water in the Great Salt Lake Basin by implementing restrictions on the coverage of lawn or turf for state governmental facilities.
HB 42 Water Rights Publication Amendments: Seeks to modernize water rights publication procedures, facilitating greater accessibility and efficiency in water rights management.
HB 62 Utah Water Ways Amendments: Establishes a comprehensive water education curriculum to raise awareness about Utah’s water systems and promote responsible water usage.
HB 65 Active Transportation and Canal Trail Amendments: Aims to conserve water while enhancing trail networks statewide by studying the feasibility of incorporating canal corridors into active transportation plans.
HB 243 Riparian Amendments: Encourages cities and counties to protect riparian areas, leading to improved stream health, reduced flooding, and increased recreational opportunities.
HB 401 Water Usage Amendments: Addresses water usage in the Great Salt Lake Basin by outlining watering restrictions on established turf before April 30th or after October 1st, promoting conservation efforts in the region.
HB 472 Water Revisions: Directs collaboration between the Division of Water Resources and the Division of Water Rights to establish a water database and center for informed water resource management allowing for more effective problem-solving to address challenges faced by the Great Salt Lake.
HJR 27 Joint Resolution Encouraging Water-efficient Landscaping Ordinances for New Construction: Encourages municipalities and counties to prioritize water-efficient land use practices in new construction projects, acknowledging the significance of water to the state.
Request for Appropriation (RFA):
RFA for Agricultural Water Use Research: Research and on-farm application projects within the Great Salt Lake watershed, furthering water efficiency and agricultural optimization efforts.
RFA for Great Salt Lake Phragmites Eradication: Support vegetation management and invasive species control, crucial for the health of the Great Salt Lake’s ecosystem.
RFA for Great Salt Lake Split-Season Lease Project: Aims to increase flows to the lake through voluntary water transactions whereby farmers lease water to the state.
RFA for Turf Removal Funding: Additional funding for turf removal initiatives to increase conservation efforts.
RFA for Utah Growing Water Smart Program: Accelerate efforts of local governments to incorporate water-smart planning into land use planning processes and increase the availability of qualified water-wise landscape practitioners.
The Utah House Democrats remain steadfast in their commitment to enacting meaningful change to ensure the security of Utah’s water future. Through collaboration, innovation, and advocacy, the Caucus is hopeful for a future where Utah’s water ecosystem is more sustainable and reliable."
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