CO HB1344

Authorizes the state treasurer to enter into lease-purchase agreements for up to $250 million (plus costs and interest) to finance Colorado State University facilities at the National Western Center and affiliated on-campus facilities over up to 20 years.

Creates the National Western Center Trust Fund to receive annual transfers from the general fund (up to $20 million per fiscal year beginning July 1, 2019) to make lease payments under the authorized agreements.

Creates the Capitol Complex Master Plan Implementation Fund to receive transfers from the general fund for capital construction projects included in the Capitol Complex Master Plan, with a maximum of $80 million total.

Requires specific projects to be approved through the Colorado Commission on Higher Education, the Office of State Planning and Budgeting, the Capital Development Committee, and the Governor's budget, and requires Denver voter approval of a lodging and car rental tax extension before lease agreements can close.

Makes the National Western Center Partnership subject to open meetings and open records laws and authorizes the state auditor to audit the partnership; requires annual project reports to legislative leadership beginning August 1, 2016.