Energy

Utah's SCR 9 is a concurrent resolution urging federal action to support the state's critical minerals industry. It calls for creating the MINES Center (a research hub for mineral extraction technology) and requests federal block grants - instead of project-specific funding - to accelerate domestic mineral development. The resolution specifically asks Utah's congressional delegation to advocate for the state to host a federal critical minerals national lab and to secure funding for the MINES Center. This resolution directly affects Utah's state agencies, the University of Utah, and Utah's federal lawmakers, without appropriating state funds.

HB 65 updates Utah's State Construction Code to adopt newer editions of nationally recognized building standards, including the 2024 International Building Code, Energy Conservation Code, and Plumbing Code. It directly affects builders, architects, and local building officials by requiring compliance with these updated codes for new construction, renovations, and repairs starting July 1, 2026. Key changes include removing specific water heater regulations in certain areas and incorporating the 2024 code editions for safety, energy efficiency, and structural standards. The bill does not appropriate new funds and aligns Utah's code with current industry practices.

HCR 1 is a non-binding resolution expressing Utah's support for the advanced nuclear manufacturing industry and declaring the state's desire to host such manufacturing. It commits Utah to helping technology companies address safety challenges in nuclear manufacturing, transportation, and waste management, while welcoming innovative nuclear firms to the state. The resolution does not create new laws, appropriate funds, or directly affect specific entities, but signals legislative backing for the industry's development.