CO HB1070

Local governments that ban hydraulic fracturing of oil and gas wells are liable to mineral interest owners for the full value of the mineral interest not received due to the prohibition.

Local governments that enact moratoriums of any duration on oil and gas activities must compensate oil and gas operators, mineral lessees, and royalty owners for all costs, damages, and losses of fair market value associated with the moratorium.

Compensable losses include delays or losses in royalty payments, delays or losses in developing oil and gas resources, and delays or losses in realizing the value of mineral leases.

The act takes effect 90 days after final adjournment of the general assembly (August 5, 2020), unless a referendum petition is filed, in which case it requires voter approval at the November 2020 general election.

The act applies to local government conduct occurring on or after its effective date.