Legislation

       

SB 11-208 is in the Senate, awaiting 2nd reading next week.  See home page News. 

HB 1223 passed the House Agricultural Committee and was sent to the Appropriations Committee.  See Our Stand at bottom left of home page.

HB 11-1150 was withdrawn February 21 by sponsor Rep. Becker at the House Agircultural, Livestock and Wildlife Committee hearing.   He had committed on February 17 to do so as Division of Wildlife plans to spend $6 million on water projects/maintainance that benefit wildlife, and collaterally agriculture.      CWF worked hard in strong opposition to the bill and applauds the outcome reached by Rep. Becker and Department of Natural Resources Executive Director Mike King.

.  Bill provided for transfer of $5 million per year for 10 years from the Division of Wildlife (DOW) cash fund to the Colorado Water Conservation Board's (CWCB) construction fund.

Bill would have allowed the CWCB to expend these revenues for water storage projects.   In addition to the loss of the $5 million per year, which is derived from the sale of hunting and fishing licenses, the bill further constitutes a "diversion of funds" that will result in an additional loss of $21 million per year in matching federal funds.  These federal funds come from the excise taxes on hunting and fishing equipment dedicated to support wildlife management activities, including hunting and angling.  The loss of $21 million per year will continue indefinitely until the original funds diverted are repaid. 

HB 1150 effectively would have eliminated nearly $26 million per year from the DOW for 10 years - compromising its ability to manage wildlife and hunting and fishing recreation.  DOW derives the bulk of its funding from sportsmen and sportswomen, and does not receive any tax revenue from the general public.  The future of hunting and angling could not afford a $260 million hit!!