Senate Bill 13-019 Summary

• Removes penalties for water appropriators who reduce consumptive water use by participating in government-sponsored water conservation programs in Colorado's water divisions 4, 5, and 6.

• Water judges shall not count decreased water use toward historical consumptive use determinations when land is enrolled in federal land conservation programs or when owners reduce use for up to five years in any ten-year period due to approved conservation programs.

• Qualifying programs include water conservation initiatives approved by state agencies, water districts, municipalities, land fallowing programs for compact compliance, and water banking programs.

• Applies to all historical consumptive use determinations made on or after the bill's effective date.

• Declared necessary for immediate preservation of public peace, health, and safety.