The bill amends Section 25-1.5-208(1)(b) of the Colorado Revised Statutes to clarify and possibly expand the administrative use of funds for water and wastewater grant programs.
Specifically, it states that the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) may use up to 10% of appropriated funds for administration and management of the project grants described in subsections (1)(a) and (1)(a.5).
What It Changes
The original statute allowed the department to use funds for administration, but this amendment clarifies that the 10% cap applies to funds used for managing the grants described in both (1)(a) (public water systems) and (1)(a.5) (domestic wastewater treatment works).
The term "appropriated money" is emphasized instead of simply “funds,” ensuring legal clarity about the source of the 10%.
Affected Program
The Small Communities Water and Wastewater Grant Fund, which provides financial assistance for public water systems and domestic wastewater treatment projects in small or disadvantaged communities.
Effective Date
Becomes law 90 days after adjournment of the legislative session, unless:
A referendum petition is filed under Article V, Section 1(3) of the Colorado Constitution.
If challenged and approved by voters in the November 2026 general election, it will take effect on the date the Governor officially declares the vote results.
Implications
Administrative Budgeting: Confirms that CDPHE can use a portion of the grant fund for administration, up to 10%, across both key subsections.
Grant Oversight: May improve oversight and management capacity for distributing and monitoring water infrastructure grants.
Legal Clarity: Helps prevent misinterpretation about how administrative funds may be used and which programs are included.
Summary
Statutory Revision Committee. The bill clarifies that, under
current law, the department of public health and environment may use up to 10% of appropriated money to administer and manage project grants concerning public water systems and wastewater treatment works in small communities.
