Environment

HB 22 creates a "classic vehicle" designation to replace the current "vintage vehicle" classification in Utah. The bill removes emissions testing requirements for vehicles under the new classic vehicle category and updates related vehicle definition codes in state law. This change directly affects owners of older vehicles currently classified as "vintage" who will now fall under the new "classic" designation. The bill also appropriates $36,400 for administrative costs related to implementing these changes.

HB 76 requires large data centers (over 10,000 square feet) to report water use before construction and annually after 2027. Operators must communicate with local water providers before building and submit detailed water usage reports to the state. The bill defines "large data center" and amends Utah water law to include these reporting requirements as a compliance obligation. It applies directly to operators of qualifying data centers and aims to increase transparency around water consumption for these facilities. No new funding is appropriated for this policy change.

SCR 3 is a Utah legislative resolution urging the U.S. government not to resume explosive nuclear weapons testing. It directly addresses the federal government, referencing Utah's historical exposure to radioactive fallout from Nevada tests and citing international consensus (187 countries supporting the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty) and 75% U.S. public opposition. The resolution emphasizes that the U.S. already maintains nuclear safety through the Stockpile Stewardship Program and that restarting tests would escalate global nuclear arms races. As a symbolic measure with no funding or legal effect, it does not change federal policy but formally expresses Utah's position.

HB 157 amends various Utah laws related to the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). It changes how the DNR handles employee work periods, allows water rights records to be kept electronically or physically, and adjusts rules for water rights after contract issues. The bill removes a cap on low-interest loans for water metering, ends the Alternative Energy Development Tax Credit Act, and repeals funding rules for a watershed program. It appropriates $5 million from the General Fund for DNR operations in fiscal year 2027. The changes primarily affect DNR staff, water rights holders, and entities managing water resources in Utah.

SB 176 requires Utah state agencies to purchase electric-powered landscape maintenance equipment when replacing old gasoline-powered equipment for routine outdoor care (like mowing or trimming) on state government grounds. It applies specifically to properties in counties classified as first or second class with less than 50,000 square feet of maintained grounds. Exceptions allow exemptions if electric equipment is impractical due to terrain features or during emergencies. The law takes effect on May 6, 2026, and does not appropriate new funding.