Bill > HB0251

This bill transforms the existing three-year pollinator pilot program into a permanent pollinator habitat program, expanding its scope and funding capabilities. The program, administered by the state agricultural department, will now include broader initiatives such as public education efforts like workshops and planting guides, distribution of native pollinator-friendly flowering plants and seeds, support for local government and nonprofit pollinator programs, and grants to support pollinator habitat creation. Specifically, the bill increases the grant coverage from 25% to 75% of planting costs and removes the previous $60,000 annual fiscal year limitation. The department is authorized to coordinate with federal agencies, state institutions, and local governments, and may designate specific areas to initiate these activities. The bill also removes the previous sunset provision that would have automatically terminated the pollinator program on July 1, 2026, effectively making the program a permanent state initiative. The bill is set to take effect on May 7, 2025, signaling a long-term commitment to supporting pollinator populations and habitat preservation in Utah.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://le.utah.gov/~2025/bills/static/HB0251.html