Bill > HB1318

This bill authorizes the expenditure of $5 million from the Species Conservation Trust Fund in the state fiscal year 2025-26 for specific conservation programs and activities. The bill stems from Colorado Revised Statutes Section 24-33-111, which established the trust fund to support conservation efforts for native species that are threatened, endangered, or potentially becoming candidate species. The executive director of the department of natural resources, after consulting with various state agencies, has prepared a species conservation eligibility list detailing programs and associated costs. The bill specifically allocates funds to four key areas: $2,480,000 for the Upper Colorado River Endangered Fish Recovery Program, $20,000 for selenium management and research, $1,250,000 for native terrestrial wildlife conservation, and $1,250,000 for native aquatic wildlife conservation. The general assembly has deemed these expenditures to be in the public interest, and the funds will remain available until fully expended. The bill includes a safety clause declaring its immediate necessity for preserving public peace, health, and safety, and follows the standard legislative approval process with signatures from key state officials.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/hb25-1318