Representative Chu told the Senate Transportation committee the bill would create a one-time fee for in-state semi trailer registration intended to encourage buyers to register trailers in Utah rather than neighboring states.

Representative Chu said the bill grew out of observations on a legislative site visit where many commercial trailers bore Idaho plates; she said the measure was designed to "lure a few folks back to Utah rather than going to Idaho when they buy a new trailer." The second substitute mirrors earlier versions the sponsor said.

Committee members asked clarify whether the measure applies only to commercial semi trailers; Representative Chu confirmed it applies to commercial semi trailers only. Representative Chu also said the one-time fee in the draft is $150 for a lifetime registration.

Senator Quan moved to pass House Bill 166, second substitute, with a favorable recommendation; the committee voted unanimously to advance the bill. The committee also voted to place the bill on the consent calendar.

The sponsor and committee emphasized the change is limited to in-state trailers and commercial semi trailers; other trailer classes and constitutional limits on registration were discussed as reasons the bill does not cover out-of-state purchasers.

Votes at a glance: HB 166 (2nd Sub) — Favorable recommendation to the Senate (unanimous); motion to place on consent calendar also passed unanimously.