Utah Legislature considers bill for electric landscaping equipment in Wasatch Front

On March 4, 2025, the House Natural Resources, Agriculture, and Environment Committee of the Utah State Legislature convened to discuss a significant bill aimed at reducing air pollution from landscaping equipment used at state facilities. This initiative builds on a successful pilot project from 2021, which demonstrated that electric equipment could lower maintenance costs and receive positive feedback from users.

The proposed legislation focuses on the use of electric landscaping tools exclusively at state properties located in Weber, Davis, Salt Lake, and Utah counties—areas known for their air quality challenges due to geographic factors like the Wasatch Front's inversion effects. The bill aims to mitigate the substantial emissions produced by gasoline-powered two-stroke equipment, which, according to committee discussions, can emit pollution equivalent to driving from Ogden to Disneyland in just one hour of operation.

Committee members expressed a cautious yet supportive stance on the bill, emphasizing the importance of balancing environmental goals with economic considerations. Representative Chu raised concerns about the lack of comprehensive studies on the emissions from gasoline equipment, while other members highlighted the bill's targeted approach, which aims to limit its impact to specific areas without extending to other regions like Grantsville or Blanding.

Public testimony revealed a split in opinion. Supporters, including representatives from environmental organizations, argued that the bill is a necessary step toward cleaner air, noting that emissions from lawn equipment surpass those from industrial activities in the Wasatch Front. Conversely, opponents, including local farmers and landscape service providers, voiced concerns about the practicality and financial implications of mandating electric equipment. They pointed out issues such as battery life limitations, increased costs, and potential inefficiencies that could arise from the transition.

The committee's discussions underscored the complexities of implementing environmental regulations that also consider economic realities. While the bill passed unanimously out of committee, it faced opposition in the Senate, where concerns were raised about its potential to expand beyond the intended scope.

As the legislative process continues, the outcome of this bill could significantly impact air quality management strategies in Utah, reflecting the ongoing tension between environmental sustainability and economic feasibility. The committee's next steps will involve further deliberation and potential amendments to address the concerns raised during the meeting.