House Political Subdivisions Committee - February 18, 2026 [Source] Translate

The Political Subdivisions Committee met to discuss four bills: HB 450, HB 483, HB 400, and HB 422. The meeting began with the unanimous approval of minutes from February 13, 2026. HB 450, introduced by Representative Schallenberger with support from Chris Bramwell, Director of the Data Privacy Office, focuses on Data Privacy Amendments. The bill aims to enhance data privacy measures, expand the Data Privacy Office's duties, and streamline the complaint process for citizens regarding data breaches. It includes a "Truth in Surveillance" section requiring disclosure of surveillance technologies used in communities. Bramwell emphasized the need for modernization of existing laws and the consolidation of privacy requirements into the Governing Data Privacy Act (GDPA). Concerns were raised about potential privacy breaches related to law enforcement, and discussions highlighted the importance of transparency in data collection and community involvement in surveillance decisions. The committee ultimately voted to hold HB 450 for further collaboration with law enforcement, passing the motion with a vote of 10 to 2. HB 483, introduced by Representative Owens, aims to clarify regulations for selling homegrown flowers. The bill received support from the Utah Farm Bureau and public comments, emphasizing its potential to reduce barriers for small businesses. A motion to favorably recommend HB 483 passed unanimously. Representative Owens also introduced HB 400, concerning landscaping water amendments, which requires cities in the Great Salt Lake drainage area to enact water-efficient ordinances for new construction. The discussion included concerns about the lack of enforcement mechanisms for municipalities. The committee voted to pass HB 400 with a favorable recommendation, with a vote of 7 to 3. The committee then discussed HB 422, which focuses on amendments to Public Infrastructure Districts (PIDs). The bill aims to improve transparency and accountability in PID governance, including provisions for mandatory dissolution after debts are paid. Public comments supported the bill, and an amendment was proposed to strike certain lines related to disclosures. The committee voted on the amendment, which passed with eight in favor and two opposed. Following this, a motion to recommend HB 422 as amended passed with nine in favor and one opposed. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn, which passed unanimously.