This bill appropriates $150k to continue funding Dr. Seth Lyman's important research, infrastructure, and equipment for air quality in the Uinta Basin. 5 years ago a research project to undersatnd air quality in the Basin was started through USU Bingham Research Center. Winterime ozone pollution in the Basin is really unique to this area. This issue involves the oil and gas industry, which is the main economic driver of the region. Continued research is needed to better understand the issue. Between 2016-2023 this research has led to some improvements to air quality including:
- Ozone Alert Program: High Ozone episodes are forecasted in order for oil and gas industry to reduce emissions when it matters most.
- Latch the Hatch campaign: Oil and gas industry is using this research to identify high-impact emissions sources.
- Air Quality Improvement: Emissions have decreased as a percentage of Basin-wide energy production.
There was a sunset date on that original project, this bill repeals that date to continue the project.
The appropriation request tied to this bill can be found HERE.
Sponsors
- Rep. Chew, Scott
- Sen. Winterton, Ron
Position
SUPPORT
Status - Passed. Funded.
2/2 House Natural Resources. Passed. Favorable Recommendation. 9-0-5
2/3 House 3rd Reading Calendar
2/6 House 3rd Reading Calendar. Passed. 71-0-4
2/7 Senate Economic Development
2/10 Senate Economic Development. Passed. Favorable Recommendation. 5-0-1
2/16 Senate 2nd Reading. Passed. 22-1-6
2/17 Senate 3rd Reading. Passed. 28-0-1
2/17 Sent for Enrolling.
Scheduled Hearings
Past Hearings
2/2 House Natural Resources. Audio HERE
2/10 Senate Ecomonic Development. 8:15am. Senate 215. AGENDA. Audio HERE
Floor Debates
- House Floor Audio, Day 21 (2/6/2023) [HB319 Uintah Basin Air Quality Research Project Amendments, Chew]
- Senate Floor Audio, Day 30 (2/15/2023) [HB319 Uintah Basin Air Quality Research Project Amendments, Winterton]
- Senate Floor Audio, Day 31 (2/16/2023) [HB319 Uintah Basin Air Quality Research Project Amendments, Winterton]