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House approves changes to clean-fuel program and creates CARET fund for diesel retrofits
Summary
House Bill 61 revises the state's clean-fuel and vehicle-technology program, removes diesel retrofits into a new CARET fund, extends eligibility to hybrids and electric vehicles, and authorizes grants for infrastructure; the House passed the bill 72-1.
Representative Arendt described House Bill 61 as a rewrite and expansion of Utah's clean fuel and vehicle-technology incentive program. The bill removes diesel retrofits from the current program and places them in a new Clean Air Retrofit, Replacement and Off-road Technology (CARET) fund, allows electric hybrids to qualify for funding, and permits direct grants for alternative-fuel infrastructure.
The sponsor cited examples of prior program projects (CNG conversions, refueling stations, university fleet conversions) and a legislative fiscal analyst's note estimating emission reductions for upgraded engines on the order of 60 to 90 percent for the same unit of work. Representative Arendt said the bill aims to leverage limited state dollars by expanding eligible technologies and enabling grants for infrastructure projects.
Lawmakers from rural districts acknowledged air-quality differences across Utah but supported the bill's statewide approach; Representative Noel urged attention to rural economic impacts even as the Legislature addresses Wasatch Front air quality concerns. Representative Duckworth praised industry efforts and local employer participation.
On final passage, the House recorded 72 yea votes and 1 nay vote, and the bill will be transmitted to the Senate for consideration.
