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Utah Senate advances long‑term water planning bill, approves university development districts and grid/energy measures
Summary
The Utah Senate on the floor advanced SB211 to create an advisory water planning council, approved measures to encourage water‑efficient development and allow universities to form development districts, and passed measures on grid‑enhancing technology and other bills. The session included several roll‑call votes and a package of committee assignments.
The Utah State Senate on the floor moved a slate of policy bills Wednesday that senators said aim to address long‑term water planning, give universities new revenue tools and encourage smarter use of energy transmission.
Senate President Adams presented Senate Bill 211 as a vehicle to create an advisory council and an agent to study and coordinate multi‑decade water strategy. Adams said the proposal is intended to give the state a “50 to 100 year vision” for water and to allow careful, confidential negotiation with other states and agencies when needed. The sponsor and floor supporters repeatedly emphasized the council is advisory and will not appropriate funds or set policy without returning to the Legislature.
"The agent has specific responsibility to work with other states," President Adams said during floor remarks, describing the bill's role in interstate coordination.
Senator Escamilla offered and the Senate adopted a floor amendment clarifying the council's advisory status, that it will not establish…
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