Bill > SB037

This bill aims to study the use of green infrastructure as an alternative mechanism for achieving compliance with water quality standards in Colorado. The key provisions of the bill are: 1. It directs the University of Colorado and Colorado State University, in collaboration with the Colorado Water Quality Control Division, to conduct a feasibility study on using green infrastructure (such as conserved natural areas and green spaces) instead of traditional gray infrastructure (like wastewater treatment facilities) to meet state and federal water quality standards. The study will also explore new funding sources like green bonds, mitigation banking, and carbon credits to finance green infrastructure projects. 2. The bill requires the universities, with the division's approval, to establish up to three pilot projects to demonstrate the use of green infrastructure in an alternative compliance program and its financing. These pilot projects can operate for up to five years. 3. The division must submit progress reports on the feasibility study and pilot projects to the Water Resources and Agriculture Review Committee, which may request similar reports in subsequent years. 4. The bill appropriates funds to the Department of Public Health and Environment and the Department of Law to implement the act. The overall goal is to explore whether green infrastructure can provide cost-effective, holistic solutions for meeting water quality standards in Colorado, while also connecting water and wastewater providers with new sources of financing.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb24-037