UT HB0060

Removes the state engineer's authority to reject water appropriation applications based on interference with "more beneficial use" of water, limiting rejection grounds to impairment of existing rights

Restricts protests to only address bases upon which the state engineer may legally approve or reject applications, narrowing the scope of allowable objections

Limits "public welfare" considerations for application approval to effects on beneficial use of water, water quantity/quality/availability, and factors specifically directed by statute—excluding matters better suited to other regulatory agencies

Clarifies that only persons with "particularized injury" from the state engineer's action qualify as aggrieved parties eligible for judicial review

Effective date: May 6, 2026