House News
June 26, 2026
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Rural Utah
Utah’s rural communities are the backbone of our state’s identity and a driving force behind our strong, diverse economy. From agriculture and energy to tourism, manufacturing, and natural resource stewardship —rural Utah plays an outsized role in shaping our state’s future. That’s why strategic investments in rural infrastructure, education, and economic development are so important. By expanding access to reliable transportation, broadband, workforce training, and local opportunities, we can ensure rural Utah not only remains strong but continues to grow and lead.
Funding Highlights
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$30 million for Rural District Capital Needs
Supported construction of new schools, additions, and renovations in small school districts.
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$5.2 million for Rural Communities Opportunity Grant
Empowered rural communities to take responsibility for economic development planning, projects, activities, and to manage their unique opportunities.
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$25 million for Rural Economic Development and Film Incentives (since 2024)
Expanded rural Utah film tax incentives.
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$5 million for Rural School Sports Facilities Grant Program
Provided a one time grants to assist schools with athletic facility maintenance and improvement.
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$2 million for Wildlife Crossings
Funded new structures to help animals safely navigate roads.
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$600,200 for Rural Utah Student Initiatives
Provided funds to help Utah's rural students access state-of-the-art STEM, skill development, and literacy research activities.
Recent Legislation
HB 36
2026
Gold Medal Schools Pilot Program
Created a pilot program to provide funding to rural schools to promote healthy physical lifestyle choices and improve student physical education, activity, and nutrition
HB 342
2026
Federal Grant Process Amendments
Created a legislative committee to oversee the disbursement of almost $1B in Rural Health Transformation Program federal funds over the next five years to improve the health of rural Utahns
HB 392
2026
District Court Amendments
Established panels of three judges representing different judicial districts across the state to hear constitutional lawsuits, rather than those cases always being decided by Salt Lake County-based judges
HB 431
2026
Wildlife Crossing Amendments
Created a dedicated wildlife and livestock crossing fund supported by a $2 million annual tax reallocation to bolster habitat connectivity and rural road safety. Earmarks 10% of funds for agricultural protection to mitigate costly collision damages and safeguard livestock
