The Wasatch County Transportation Coordinating Committee convened on February 15, 2024, to address pressing air quality issues and the implications of the Clean Air Act on local regulations. A significant focus of the meeting was the potential regulation of two-stroke engines, particularly in landscaping equipment, which are known to contribute heavily to air pollution.

Committee members expressed concern over the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) stringent standards and the challenges they pose for Utah's air quality management. The discussion highlighted the need for legislative action to amend the Clean Air Act, which currently limits the state's ability to implement more flexible air quality measures. However, optimism for such changes remains low, given the current political climate in Congress.

A key strategy discussed was to demonstrate to the EPA that Utah is taking proactive steps to improve air quality. This includes educating both legislators and the public about the environmental impact of two-stroke engines. Committee members noted that emissions from lawn and garden equipment exceed those from all industrial sources combined in non-attainment areas, making it a critical target for regulation.

The committee also shared positive feedback from pilot programs at local universities that tested battery-powered landscaping equipment. Users reported better performance and comfort compared to traditional two-stroke models, suggesting a viable path forward for cleaner technology adoption.

As the meeting concluded, members emphasized the importance of continued education and advocacy to ensure that both lawmakers and the public understand the urgency of addressing air quality issues. The committee is committed to exploring all avenues to secure transportation funding while improving the region's air quality, recognizing that inaction could jeopardize future resources.