Rep. Curtis introduces bill to safeguard the Great Salt Lake, successfully passes through U.S. House

Photo: Great Salt Lake in September 2023.

WASHINGTON – U.S. Representative and Senate candidate John Curtis recently introduced legislation aimed at protecting the Great Salt Lake, which was successfully passed by the U.S. House of Representatives last week and is now headed to the Senate.

The bill, which received bipartisan support in the House, was cosponsored by other members of Utah’s Congressional delegation, including Reps. Moore, Owens, and Maloy.

The bill, known as the Great Salt Lake Stewardship Act, would include the Great Salt Lake in the ongoing conservation initiatives within the Colorado River Water Conservation Program.

“Utahns have worked tirelessly to protect the Great Salt Lake, but persistent drought conditions now threaten its long-term viability. Recognizing the urgency of this issue, the Great Salt Lake Stewardship Act would expand the Colorado River water conservation program to include the lake,” Rep. Curtis said.

“Over time, this flexibility will help safeguard its ecological and economic significance, protecting Utah and the West from the economic and public health risks of an ecological disaster.”

The Colorado River Water Conservation Program, which the Great Salt Lake Stewardship was included in to, is a collection of initiatives and policies designed to manage and protect the water resources of the Colorado River, which is a vital water source for millions of people throughout the Western U.S.

The program aims to balance the competing needs of agriculture, urban areas, industry, and the environment while addressing ongoing challenges like drought, climate change, and overallocation of water resources.

Key components of the program include drought contingency plans, water conservation programs, and environmental restoration.

The Great Salt Lake Stewardship Act would utilize unused funds already allocated to Utah, expanding their purpose to support the state’s efforts, along with local communities and water districts north of Salt Lake County in conserving water and replenishing the lake.

This would be achieved by allowing unspent budget authority under the Central Utah Act to be used for water conservation initiatives, rather than remaining inactive.

“The decisions we make today will have a huge impact on the lake and its future, as well as on the quality of life Utahns have historically enjoyed. It is great to have partners in Congress who recognize these issues and are willing to collaborate to create innovative and effective solutions.” said Brian Steed Commissioner of the Great Salt Lake.