Utah Legislature: Golf-cart fees at state course could rise

SALT LAKE CITY — Cart rental fees at state park golf courses in Utah would go up if HB240 passes the Senate.

The bill passed the House on Friday. The measure does several things to help the Department of Natural Resources, but the largest change would put golf cart fees at 15 percent of green fees. The current charge is $1.50.

"Why does the state even need to own golf courses?" asked Rep. John Dougall, R-American Fork. Dougall said he has heard that state courses lose money, "and in these times of shrinking budgets, if we are subsidizing golf courses causes me significant concern."

The bill's sponsor, Rep. Jack Draxler, R-Logan, said it's his understanding that the courses themselves make "very little" money.

The bill may be read online at le.utah.gov/~2010/htmdoc/hbillhtm/HB0240.htm.

— Bob Bernick Jr.