SALT LAKE CITY — Clean air advocates gathered at the state Capitol on Tuesday for "Clean Air Lobby Day," where they urged lawmakers to take action before the legislative session ends.
Inside the Senate building, environmental groups met with community members for a legislative briefing, outlining which air-focused bills are moving forward, and which ones they believe need changes.
They said Utah's unique geography and climate make long-term planning critical.
"Especially in a state like Utah," said Grow the Flow Managing Director Jake Dreyfus, "where we're already impacted by winter inversion pollution, by wildfire smoke in the summers, and now we have this imminent and growing threat from dust pollution from Great Salt Lake."
After the overview, attendees split up to meet directly with lawmakers — encouraging support for policies aimed at reducing pollution and protecting public health.
Organizers said those conversations shouldn't stop at the Capitol.
"I think it's really important for every person to email, text, call their legislator at some point in the next month or two. The sooner the better," said Katelyn Balakir, senior policy associate for HEAL Utah, an environmental advocacy group.
Advocates say sustained public pressure could play a key role in shaping what ultimately passes this session.
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Tyrese Boone
