HB 17-1289 Summary

• Water resources review committee shall study during 2017 interim whether state engineer should have authority to promulgate rules establishing optional streamlined methodology for calculating historical consumptive use of water rights.

• Proposed rules would adopt nonbinding streamlined factors and assumptions for determining historical consumptive use, provide guidance for all components of consumptive use analysis using geographically specific considerations, and ensure compliance with section 37-92-305(3) Colorado Revised Statutes.

• Study shall investigate feasibility, costs, and impacts of providing nonbinding alternative to other calculation methods to reduce transaction costs and approval time for water right changes while preventing injury.

• Committee must consider whether rules should apply only in identified water divisions, potential cost of promulgating rules, and funding mechanisms for rule implementation.

• Bill was approved by Governor John W. Hickenlooper and declared necessary for immediate preservation of public peace, health, and safety.