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House approves bill requiring water‑conservation plans from providers
Summary
The House passed first substitute HB418 unanimously, directing water conservation districts and retail water providers to develop public conservation plans filed with the Division of Water Resources; the Board of Water Resources will review and report to the interim committee.
The House approved the first substitute of House Bill 418, a measure that requires each water‑conservation district and retail water provider to develop and adopt a water‑conservation plan with public input and file those plans with the Division of Water Resources.
The sponsor (identified on the floor as the bill’s mover) described the bill as a first step to address growing demand, saying conservation plans will be used in reviewing loans and in informing state policy. During floor debate members discussed whether the bill’s primary impact would be urban or agricultural; one representative noted irrigation companies supply most agricultural water and suggested the bill’s initial focus will be on urban providers. Members also raised the need for a comprehensive program to engage the larger agricultural share of use while supporting urban conservation efforts.
The sponsor and supporters stressed urgency: the Division of Water Resources projects large increases in Utah’s water demand over coming decades, and advocates said planning and public education can reduce demand and avoid costly new infrastructure. The bill passed the House by recorded voice/tally of 71 yes and 0 no and will be transmitted to the senate for further action.
