Bill > HB0546

This bill establishes a new Storm Water Improvements Fund to address storm water management and infrastructure in the Great Salt Lake basin. The legislation creates an enterprise fund that can provide low-interest loans to political subdivisions (such as counties, cities, and special districts) for upgrading storm water infrastructure. The fund aims to support projects that maintain flood control, protect water quality, prevent erosion, and potentially replace low-impact development with alternative storm water infrastructure. The bill requires the state division to conduct a comprehensive study of storm water management in the Great Salt Lake basin, examining issues like water quality, regionalized solutions, water quantity, and how to maximize storm water reaching the Great Salt Lake. The loans from the fund will have favorable terms, including fixed annual interest rates below municipal bond market rates and loan terms up to 30 years. Additionally, the bill amends several existing statutes to incorporate the new Storm Water Improvements Fund into various state financial and administrative frameworks, ensuring its proper establishment and management. The fund will be funded through legislative appropriations, loan repayments, and investment earnings, with the goal of supporting water infrastructure improvements in the region. The bill is set to take effect on May 7, 2025.

https://le.utah.gov/~2025/bills/static/HB0546.html