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Duchesne County voices concern about proposed gas-tax changes and Colorado River Compact deadline
Summary
Commissioners warned that a bill to lower the state gas tax and shift revenue to refinery/production taxes could make road funding unpredictable for counties and potentially discourage rail investment; commissioners said they have met with state representatives and a senator to press county concerns. They also noted Feb. 14 as a critical Colorado River Compact negotiation deadline.
During the Jan. 12 meeting, Duchesne County commissioners discussed pending state legislation that would reduce the state gas tax and shift some revenue toward taxing refinery and downstream production. Commissioners and staff told the board they are concerned about the potential effects on county road funding and regional infrastructure investment.
County officials explained that many counties rely on the predictable nature of the state gas tax for planning and maintaining roads. Commissioners said the proposed change could create uncertainty because taxing refineries or production could yield variable revenue depending on market behavior, potential production shifts to other states, or changes in refining locations. They also cautioned that adding taxes to refineries could raise prices and alter market dynamics, reducing the expected revenue stream to counties.
The commission reported outreach to state lawmakers to register these concerns: they have met with Representatives Chew and Watkins and with Senator Witterton to press for protections of county road funding. Commissioners emphasized that while the bill is backed by leadership in the legislature, the county’s position is to seek safeguards that preserve stable road funding.
Commissioners also raised the Colorado River Compact negotiations, noting a Feb. 14 deadline after which federal authorities could step in. Commissioners described the negotiations as complex and signaled they are tracking outcomes that could affect water allocations and regional interests.
The discussion produced no formal county ordinance or resolution at the Jan. 12 meeting; commissioners instructed staff to continue engagement with legislators and stakeholders.
