Bill > SB0126

This bill introduces new restrictions and penalties related to solar geoengineering in Utah, amending existing transportation laws. The bill defines solar geoengineering as the modification of Earth's atmosphere through solar radiation management, specifically prohibiting aircraft owners or operators from intentionally using aircraft to conduct such activities within the state. Violations of this prohibition would be classified as a class A misdemeanor. The bill also requires the relevant state department to establish an electronic system for public reporting of suspected solar geoengineering activities and mandates that credible reports be forwarded to the Attorney General's Office. Importantly, the bill clarifies that airport operators are not obligated to monitor or report such activities and are not liable for aircraft using their facilities for potential solar geoengineering. The bill makes a minor amendment to an existing penalty provision, adding the phrase "Except as otherwise provided in this part" to the language about misdemeanor violations. The new provisions will take effect on May 7, 2025, and are specifically designed to prevent unauthorized atmospheric modification techniques that might artificially reduce solar radiation reaching the Earth's surface.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://le.utah.gov/~2025/bills/static/SB0126.html