Utah 2022 Regular Session

Utah House Bill HB0298

Introduced
2/2/22  
Refer
2/7/22  
Report Pass
2/23/22  
Engrossed
2/24/22  
Refer
2/25/22  
Report Pass
3/2/22  

Caption

State Crustacean Designation

Impact

The passage of HB 298 does not entail any appropriations of state funds or modifications to existing laws regarding state symbols. Its primary function is to recognize the cultural and environmental importance of brine shrimp within the state. This designation could enhance educational opportunities and foster local pride regarding the unique biodiversity of Utah, particularly the Great Salt Lake, where brine shrimp thrive.

Summary

House Bill 298, also known as the State Crustacean Designation bill, aims to officially designate the brine shrimp, or Artemia franciscana, as the state crustacean of Utah. The bill is sponsored by Chief Sponsor Rosemary T. Lesser and emphasizes the significance of the brine shrimp to both the ecological community and local economy. Brine shrimp are notably found in Utah's Great Salt Lake, contributing to the lake's unique ecosystem and offering economic benefits through aquaculture and research initiatives.

Contention

While HB 298 appears to have broad support, there may be underlying discussions around the representation of state symbols and the criteria for such designations. Notably, there is typically a balance to be struck in recognizing wildlife or natural resources without implying specific regulatory focuses or endorsing one species over another. However, there are no significant publicized points of contention surrounding this bill as of now.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

UT HB0137

State Crustacean Designation

UT SB0116

State Bird of Prey Designation

UT HB0092

State Mushroom Designation

UT SB0230

Utah Resident Terminology Amendments

UT SB0031

State Flag Amendments

UT AB1797

State crustacean.

UT HB517

European honey bee; designating as the official state pollinator.

UT HCR122

Designating the Texas Gulf shrimp as the Official State Crustacean of Texas.

UT SB1171

Relating To Crustaceans.

UT HB1341

State symbols; white shrimp as official state crustacean; designate

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.