Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, Representative John Curtis (R-UT) passed two bills through the House of Representatives with bipartisan support. The Great Salt Lake Stewardship Act would incorporate the Great Salt Lake into ongoing conservation efforts under the Colorado River water conservation program. The Geothermal Energy Opportunity Act aims to expedite the approval process for geothermal projects.

Rep. Curtis has a strong track record of introducing and passing bipartisan legislation. During his tenure in Congress, he has passed twenty bills into law, surpassing the majority of his colleagues and is ranked as one of the most effective legislators in the country.

“I am thrilled to have unanimous support from my colleagues for this common-sense legislation,” said Rep. Curtis. “Both of these bills benefit Utahns, who have already invested tremendous effort to innovate and address challenges.”

Curtis on the GEO Act:

“Geothermal energy is an affordable, reliable, and clean energy source. Despite significant investments from companies to secure project permits, the Department of the Interior often delays authorizations—such as notices to proceed and drilling permits—due to litigation threats. Utah is a prime example of geothermal energy's potential, and we must unlock this resource to meet our energy needs.”

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Curtis on the Great Salt Lake Stewardship Act:

“Utahns have worked tirelessly to protect the Great Salt Lake, but persistent drought conditions now threaten its long-term viability. Recognizing the urgency of this issue, the Great Salt Lake Stewardship Act would expand the Colorado River water conservation program to include the lake. Over time, this flexibility will help safeguard its ecological and economic significance, protecting Utah and the West from the economic and public health risks of an ecological disaster.”

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Quotes of support for the GEO Act:

“Unfortunately, bureaucratic red tape has routinely delayed domestic energy projects and there aren’t clear timelines for processing geothermal lease applications. Congressman Curtis’s GEO Act will finally put the Department of the Interior on a clock and ensure these crucial energy projects can proceed. Congressman Curtis has always been a champion for all-of-the-above energy projects and passing this bill out of the House today is another step toward securing America’s domestic energy future.” – House Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman

“The common-sense improvements to geothermal leasing and permitting passed today by the U.S. House of Representatives will help expedite geothermal exploration. Thank you to Representative John Curtis (R-UT) for leading on this important issue. These improvements, including predictability of process and accountability for all parties in the permitting process, will further enable geothermal energy production to flourish in critical locations, such as Rep. Curtis’ home state of Utah.” – Tim Latimer, Co-Founder and CEO, Fervo Energy

Quotes of support for the Great Salt Lake Stewardship Act:

“The Great Salt Lake in Utah is one of America’s most unique ecosystems and must be properly managed for future generations to enjoy. Congressman Curtis has always been a champion for Utah’s incredible natural resources and beautiful outdoor spaces, and his Great Salt Lake Stewardship Act represents his continued work on these issues. I’m so glad to see this legislation pass the House today and look forward to seeing it signed into law.” – House Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman
 

"From water districts to Washington, DC, we need every tool in the toolbox to protect the long-term health of the Great Salt Lake for generations to come. The Great Salt Lake Stewardship Act allocates financial resources for drought mitigation, employs innovative approaches to water conservation, and helps replenish the lake's water levels. I am proud to join the Utah delegation in continuing to bolster local efforts to preserve and maintain our state's precious water resources." — Rep. Burgess Owens

“Preserving the Great Salt Lake has been one of my top priorities, and I’m grateful for all the progress that has been made on the state and federal level. The Great Salt Lake Stewardship Act is a critical next step that will provide the necessary resources to support water conservation efforts that will help stabilize the Great Salt Lake. I appreciate the opportunity to work with my Utah colleagues on this important issue.” — Rep. Blake Moore

“The Great Salt Lake is integral to Utah’s economy and the health of the surrounding region. Preserving it will require partnerships with state and local leaders. I’m proud to work with my Utah colleagues on legislation that will support local, water conservation efforts focused on replenishing the lake.” – Rep. Celeste Maloy

“The decisions we make today will have a huge impact on the lake and its future, as well as on the quality of life Utahns have historically enjoyed. It is great to have partners in Congress who recognize these issues and are willing to collaborate to create innovative and effective solutions.” – Brian Steed, Great Salt Lake Commissioner

“This program would offer a great boost to the critical ongoing conservation efforts in the Great Salt Lake Watershed, which in turn would benefit the Great Salt Lake and its tributaries.” – Scott W. Paxman, General Manager/CEO, Weber Basin Water Conservancy District

Bill text of  H.R. 7370 – Geothermal Energy Opportunity Act

Bill text of  H.R. 4094 – Great Salt Lake Stewardship Act

Additional Reading:

Deseret News: Saving the Great Salt Lake earns bipartisan support in House

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