Utah is at the forefront of fostering innovation in AI, space exploration, and advanced technologies, all while prioritizing data privacy and consumer protection. The state is embracing emerging technologies like advanced air mobility and artificial intelligence, ensuring that innovation leads to economic growth and job creation while safeguarding individuals’ rights. Utah is also committed to creating an environment where cutting-edge industries can thrive responsibly, with a focus on ethical use of technology, protecting personal data and ensuring transparency. This commitment to balancing innovation with privacy positions Utah as a leader in the future of technology and data security.
2025 Legislation Highlights
- S.B. 62 Spaceport Exploration Committee takes a crucial step in positioning Utah as the next frontier for the space industry by establishing an exploratory committee to research the feasibility of establishing a spaceport in Utah. A spaceport could expand Utah’s role in the global space economy, fostering innovation, creating high-paying jobs and solidifying our reputation as a leader in aerospace and defense.
- S.B. 96 Advanced Air Mobility Amendments updates provisions to support emerging air mobility technology and directs the Department of Transportation to lead a community outreach and education campaign. This legislation paves the way for innovative transportation solutions, starting with package deliveries and eventually expanding to air taxis, ultimately providing faster, more efficient travel options for Utahns.
- S.B. 226 Artificial Intelligence Consumer Protection Amendments limits AI disclosure requirements to high-risk services like financial, medical and legal applications. This change helps ensure that businesses using AI in low-risk situations are not burdened with unnecessary red tape. By prioritizing high-risk applications and streamlining regulations for low-risk uses, Utah can set a national standard for fostering a safe and innovative environment for AI development.
- S.B. 271 Unauthorized Artificial Intelligence Impersonation Amendments aims to address the misuse of AI by prohibiting unauthorized monetization of art and talent, protecting creators from exploitation. This ensures individuals maintain control over their likeness, voice and other characteristics as AI-generated content becomes increasingly prevalent.
- H.B. 418 Data Sharing Amendments enhances data privacy by limiting big tech companies from using personal data for profit. It lets users take their messages, contacts and posts with them when they leave a platform. The bill also allows users to share content freely across services, as well as protecting the right to delete personal data. Beyond protecting individual rights, this bill fosters competition, encourages innovation and enhances online safety.
- H.B. 452 Artificial Intelligence Amendments builds on last year’s legislation that established the AI Policy Lab, which was designed to analyze AI’s role across industries to develop responsible guardrails. Their focus this past year—mental health—led to key policy recommendations reflected in this bill. It establishes protections for users of AI-powered mental health-related chatbots by requiring clear disclosures, setting development standards and granting enforcement authority to the Department of Consumer Protection. These measures promote ethical AI use while also helping address workforce shortages in the mental health sector.