A bill proposing significant changes to how residents pay for water in Utah is advancing in the State Legislature. House Bill 341, sponsored by Rep. Casey Snider, aims to implement tiered water rates to promote conservation and address drought issues. The bill has received support from local water districts and aims to treat water usage as a utility, where excessive use would result in higher fees.
In addition, the Senate Natural Resources Committee has supported the expansion of agriculture water optimization programs with the introduction of House Bill 243. This program incentivizes farmers to adopt water-saving technologies, although there are challenges in tracking the water saved. Despite some bills facing opposition, efforts are being made to address water conservation and distribution issues in the state.
The bill also raises the issue of exempting nonprofits like churches and schools from property taxes, resulting in essentially free water usage. Discussions are ongoing about potentially including nonprofits in the tiered water rate system to promote fairness.
The Great Salt Lake Collaborative, a solutions journalism initiative, is working to inform the public about water conservation efforts and the importance of addressing the crisis facing the Great Salt Lake and Colorado River. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and other nonprofits are being urged to consider changes in water payment structures to contribute to water conservation efforts.
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