CO HB1118

Defines "backcountry search and rescue" as the utilization, training, and support of responders with specialized equipment coordinated by sheriffs to locate, assist, and remove lost or injured individuals in remote areas, including drills, live incidents, and recovery operations.

Requires the Department of Natural Resources to conduct a study and develop recommendations addressing coordination among agencies, volunteer benefits (workers compensation, retirement), equipment funding, physical and psychological support needs, training requirements, and public safety education, with findings reported in January 2022.

Authorizes the department to conduct statewide outreach and training on physical and psychological stress injuries affecting backcountry search and rescue volunteers, which may include working with consultants, developing grant programs for local governments, or creating other support services.

Makes conforming amendments to existing statutes to replace references to "search and rescue" with "backcountry search and rescue" in sections governing the backcountry search and rescue fund, park usage exemptions, park entrance privileges, and river outfitter enforcement.

Takes effect 90 days after final adjournment of the general assembly, unless subject to a referendum petition, in which case it requires voter approval at the November 2022 general election.