CO SB041

Amends Colorado statutes 37-90-107 and 37-90-137 to explicitly authorize sand and gravel mine operators to use water incidental to mining operations with proper well permits and replacement plans.

Well permits and replacement plans may authorize water uses including processing and washing mined materials, dust suppression, mined land reclamation with temporary irrigation, liner or slurry wall construction, concrete production, dewatering, and mitigation of mining impacts.

Clarifies that the Ground Water Commission (for designated basins) and State Engineer (for areas outside designated basins) shall issue well permits upon approval of replacement plans or substitute supply plans that meet specified requirements.

Effective 90 days after final adjournment of the 2018 legislative session (August 8, 2018), or subject to voter approval if a referendum petition is filed within that period.

Applies to conduct occurring on or after the effective date.