Bill > HB0187

This bill amends existing Utah law regarding water rights, primarily focusing on water in the "lower basin," which refers to a specific region defined by the Colorado River Compact. Key changes include clarifying definitions for terms like "public entity," "public water supplier," and "water conservancy district," and establishing new provisions for water rights held by water conservancy districts within the lower basin, allowing them to be used, leased, or contractually held without triggering forfeiture due to nonuse under certain conditions. Additionally, the bill modifies regulations for change applications related to instream flows and water delivery to reservoirs, particularly within the Colorado River System, and introduces restrictions on filing such applications if the diversion point is within the lower basin, limiting them to specific state divisions. The bill also sets an effective date of May 6, 2026, and includes a coordination clause for potential amendments if other related bills are also passed.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://le.utah.gov/~2026/bills/static/HB0187.html