HB 14-1219 Summary

• Clarifies that local government maintenance obligations for water-crossing structures (culverts, bridges, flumes) include only preservation and repair of existing portions, not construction of new structures or complete reconstruction or replacement of existing structures.

• Assigns responsibility for new construction and complete reconstruction or replacement costs to the person or corporation that owns the affected ditch, race, drain, or flume.

• Amends Colorado Revised Statutes 43-5-305 to define "maintain" as excluding new construction or complete reconstruction or replacement work.

• Amends Colorado Revised Statutes 37-84-106 to clarify that county and municipal maintenance obligations do not include new bridge construction or complete reconstruction or replacement, with costs to be borne by the water conveyance owner.

• Takes effect 90 days after final adjournment of the general assembly (August 6, 2014), subject to possible referendum petition.