Bill > HB0147

This bill updates Utah's laws regarding aquatic invasive species, primarily focusing on expanding the definition of invasive mussels to include not just Dreissena mussels (like zebra and quagga mussels) but also Limnoperna mussels (like the golden mussel). The bill modifies requirements for vessel owners, mandating that both residents and nonresidents pay an annual fee before launching or operating a vessel in Utah's waters, with fees of $20 for residents and $25 for nonresidents. The legislation provides exemptions for government agency vessels and nonmotorized or inflatable boats in certain circumstances. It empowers state divisions to establish inspection stations, detain and quarantine vessels potentially carrying invasive species, and close water bodies or water supply systems if invasive mussels are detected. The bill also requires vessel owners to complete an aquatic invasive species education course and mandates that anyone discovering invasive mussels report them immediately. Additionally, the legislation requires the development of an emergency response plan to coordinate efforts to prevent and address the spread of aquatic invasive species throughout the state. The changes aim to protect Utah's water resources from potentially devastating ecological and economic impacts of invasive mussel species.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://le.utah.gov/~2025/bills/static/HB0147.html