CO SB061

Creates a legal presumption that new or materially amended Colorado state laws do not apply within reservation boundaries to the Southern Ute Indian Tribe, the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, their officials/employees acting officially, tribally controlled entities, or tribal lands—unless the legislature explicitly states otherwise.

Defines "tribal lands" as fee simple lands owned by the tribes or tribally controlled entities, plus trust lands, allotments, and land assignments within reservation boundaries.

Preserves existing federal law jurisdiction, including Pub.L. 98-290 (1984) governing the Southern Ute Reservation, and does not abrogate sovereign immunity of either the state or tribes.

Authorizes the Governor and state agencies to include tribes in state programs and grant funding for infrastructure, healthcare, education, law enforcement, environmental protection, and other services—even if the authorizing law doesn't explicitly mention tribal eligibility.

Takes effect 90 days after legislative adjournment unless a referendum petition is filed, in which case it would go to voters in November 2026.