Senate approves third-substitute of House Bill 119 to encourage quality growth, create advisory commission

The Utah State Senate on March 2, 1999 passed the third substitute of House Bill 119, a bipartisan measure to promote "quality growth," conserve critical lands and create a quality growth commission to advise the Legislature without exercising regulatory authority.

Senator Valentine, presenting the substitute, said the bill uses economic incentives rather than mandates and protects private property rights: "No one will be required to give up their property. If they want to sell property, they may do so." He described the commission’s role as advisory and said the Legislature would receive an annual report to oversee where funds were spent.

Valentine provided data to frame urgency: roughly 1,000 square miles of developable land in the Greater Wasatch area, about 45 percent already developed, with projections of near-total buildout by 2030 if current trends continue. The bill establishes a critical lands fund and allows grants to assist local entities while emphasizing voluntary action and compensation for willing sellers.

Supporters across the floor described the bill as a practical, nonregulatory approach to preserving open space and encouraging efficient development. Opponents and cautious senators raised questions about the bill’s scope and the adequacy of protections for property owners; several said they would monitor implementation and return to refine details if needed.

The roll-call on the third substitute recorded 24 aye votes and 5 nays; the bill passed back to the House for final consideration.