The proposed bill introduces a significant change to the distribution of funds from four specific state funds in Colorado, effective July 1, 2025. The affected funds are:
Marijuana Tax Cash Fund
Public School Capital Construction Assistance Fund
Peace Officer Training and Support Fund
Affordable Housing Financing Fund
Current Distribution Method:
As of now, the distribution of funds from these sources varies:
Marijuana Tax Cash Fund:
71.85% allocated to the Marijuana Tax Cash Fund.
15.56% to the General Fund.
12.59% to the State Public School Fund.
Public School Capital Construction Assistance Fund:
Funded through various sources, including state land trust funds, Colorado Lottery spillover funds, marijuana tax revenue, and excise taxes.
Peace Officer Training and Support Fund:
Established to support law enforcement training and support programs.
Affordable Housing Financing Fund:
Supports the development and preservation of affordable housing.
Proposed Changes:
The bill proposes the following distribution method for the specified funds:
First 50% of the Funds:
Distributed equally among the 64 counties and 2 federally recognized tribal governments in Colorado.
Second 50% of the Funds:
Distributed among the 64 counties and 2 federally recognized tribal governments in proportion to their populations.
Implications:
Equitable Distribution:
The equal distribution of the first 50% ensures that each county and tribal government receives a baseline amount, promoting fairness across the state.
Population-Based Allocation:
The second 50% allocation based on population size allows for larger counties and tribal governments to receive funding proportional to their population, addressing the varying needs of different regions.
Impact on Local Governments:
This change may affect the funding levels of local governments, potentially altering how they allocate resources to various programs and services.
Summary
The bill modifies the distribution of money from certain funds so
that the money in those funds is distributed to local governments and:
•
The first 50% of the money is distributed equally among the 64 counties and 2 federally recognized tribal governments in the state; and
•
The second 50% of the money is distributed among the 64 counties and 2 federally recognized tribal governments in the state in proportion to the population of those counties and tribal governments.
The bill applies this modified distribution beginning on July 1, 2025, to the following funds:
•
The marijuana tax cash fund;
•
The public school capital construction assistance fund;
•
The peace officer training and support fund; and
•
The affordable housing financing fund.
