The 2026 Session is moving quickly as we wrap up our third week. We’re focused on crafting a balanced budget, debating policy, and passing bills that will keep Utah the best state in the nation. I remain committed to the common sense principles that matter most: keeping costs low for families, holding government accountable to the people, and ensuring our community remains the best place to call home. As this 45-day Legislative Session continues, I invite you to stay connected to the process by following the daily calendars, committee meetings, and live-streamed debates at le.utah.gov.
One particular moment that mattered this week was a visit from North Sevier High School’s government class.
“It was a real highlight this week to introduce the North Sevier High School Government class on the House Floor and see those students experience the Legislature up close. During their visit, Mr. Hurd shared the news of his retirement, and I just want to say thank you for the years he’s poured into North Sevier students and our community. I also hope North Sevier High School will keep sending students to the Capitol to shadow interns during the session where those days in the building can spark real interest in public service and help students see what’s possible. This year they sent Will Chaston, Boston Mason, and Paisley Hallows, great students with great futures,” said Rep. Albrecht.
Legislative Update: Bills I’m Working on
Passed the House Floor
- HB 78 – Nuclear Regulatory Amendments
Establishes a state regulatory framework for nuclear energy and materials oversight to align Utah with emerging nuclear technologies. - HCR 1 – House Concurrent Resolution on Advanced Nuclear Manufacturing
Expresses the Legislature’s support for advanced nuclear manufacturing and signals Utah’s openness to innovation in this sector. - HB 64 – School and Institutional Trust Lands Amendments
Creates a structured process for counties to nominate culturally or scientifically significant trust lands for preservation.
Moving Forward in the House
- HB 222 – Limitations of Actions Amendments
Clarifies liability standards related to greenhouse gas claims and makes conforming changes.
Floor Sponsor in the House
- SB 26 – Pest Control Amendments
Updates provisions related to statewide pest control programs that help protect agriculture and natural resources. - SB 20 – Natural Resources, Agriculture, and Environment Technical Changes
Makes technical updates in conservation and environmental statutes to improve implementation and coordination.
In the Senate
- HB 66 – Soil Health Program Amendments
Extends the repeal date of Utah’s Soil Health Program, ensuring continued support for land stewardship. - HB 67 – Lead Acid Battery Disposal Sunset Amendments
Removes the sunset on the state’s lead‑acid battery disposal system to prevent any lapse in environmental protections. - HB 69 – Drinking Water Restructuring Amendments
Enhances clarity around enforcement and compliance tools tied to Utah’s drinking water oversight.
Committees and Caucus Leadership
As Chair of the House Natural Resources, Agriculture, and Environment Committee, I continue working to bring thoughtful, rural-focused policy to the forefront of the legislative conversation. I’m also actively serving on the:
- House Public Utilities and Energy Committee
- Natural Resources Appropriations Subcommittee
- Water Development Commission
- Federalism Commission
- Constitutional Defense Council
- Colorado River Authority of Utah
I also serve as Co-Chair of the Rural Caucus, one of the most well-attended and longest-standing caucuses on the Hill. We focus on ensuring rural needs are heard and addressed in all areas of state policy.
Additionally, I serve on a Rural legislative Education Working Group focused on strengthening education delivery and facilities in rural areas. This includes supporting capital improvement funding, enhancing rural campus infrastructure, and ensuring students across Utah, no matter their ZIP code, have access to strong learning environments that prepare them for the future.
Stay Engaged
Your feedback helps shape the decisions we make here at the Capitol. I encourage you to follow live committee meetings, explore bills of interest, and stay connected through the official website: le.utah.gov.
Thanks again for your continued engagement. I’ll be back next week with another update.
