House extends Uinta Basin air‑quality research and adds ongoing funding

The Utah House on Feb. 6 approved HB 319, which extends the Uinta Basin Air Quality Research Project by eliminating its sunset and adding $150,000 in annual funding drawn from severance‑tax interest.

Representative Bruce R. (Chu) described the project as five years in development, originally started by a Senate member, and said that the research and partnership with oil and gas companies have helped identify ozone‑formation issues in the Uinta Basin. The added funding, drawn from severance‑tax interest, will upgrade equipment and provide more student research opportunities, he said.

Representative Kristofferson asked about a possible discrepancy in the fiscal note between a one‑time $150,000 and ongoing funding; Chu confirmed the intent is ongoing funding and said staff would address the fiscal‑note language.

Supporters characterized the project as a public‑private partnership that can inform air‑quality work in other basins. The bill passed the House 71‑0 and will be sent to the Senate.