Senate adopts funding and sticker plan for aquatic invasive species; fee structure and interstate questions raised

The Senate approved a second substitute to change how Utah collects and distributes fees aimed at preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species, including quagga mussels.

Sen. Sandel explained the substitute creates a separate boat-sticker process: $10 removed from the registration fee and $10 from the invasive-species fee will be consolidated into a $20 sticker collected at the time of boating registration; out-of-state boaters would pay $25 for the sticker. Sandel said the adjustment responds to federal guidance that forbids collecting an invasive-species fee through boater registration, requiring a separate collection and sticker distribution approach.

Sen. Owens and others asked practical questions about enforcement on Lake Powell, which crosses the Arizona state line. Sen. Sandel said Utah waters will require the sticker and indicated he would follow up with details on interstate coordination and enforcement mechanisms to prevent enforcement conflicts on boundary waters.

The substitute was placed for a roll call and the Senate read it a third time; the clerk announced 24 ayes, 0 nays, 6 absent. Sponsor remarks and senator questions appear in the transcript; the substitute includes a reworked funding distribution mechanism and prescriptive changes to how the division collects money.

Provenance

- Sponsor presentation and rationale: SEG 1567–1596 (Sandel/Bridal comments on sticker and fee mechanics).
- Q&A on residency and Lake Powell enforcement: SEG 1619–1668.
- Vote and outcome: SEG 1696–1697.

Implications

If enacted, boaters on Utah waters will need a specific invasive-species sticker; nonresident rates will differ. Sponsors said they expect coordination with other states but did not detail formal compacts or enforcement protocols on the floor.