Bill > HB0491

This bill establishes a formal process for the special designation of state highways, allowing them to be named in honor of individuals. To qualify, a highway designation proposal must apply only to a state highway, involve a single designation for a specific section, maintain at least a five-mile gap between specially designated portions, and honor only one individual per highway. The honoree must have demonstrated exceptional bravery or made extraordinary contributions to the state, have significant ties to Utah, and have been deceased for at least five years. Signage for these designations will be limited to two signs per highway (one in each direction) and must adhere to department standards, with costs covered by state funds or private donations. A new "highway designation review committee," composed of six legislators and exempt from open meeting laws, will review these proposals, approving only one per year. If approved by this committee, the proposing legislator can then seek a recommendation from the Transportation Interim Committee, which also approves only one designation annually. The bill also makes a minor technical correction to the definition of "public body" in existing law, clarifying that the highway designation review committee is not considered a public body. This bill takes effect on May 6, 2026.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://le.utah.gov/~2026/bills/static/HB0491.html