Representative Rankin, prime sponsor, presented House Bill 18-1249, which changes the distribution of certain federal mineral lease funds, directing these moneys to local governments rather than to the state. Committee members received a packet of letters from local governments [Attachment A].

Ms. Bonnie Petersen, representing the Associated Governments of Northwest Colorado, testified in support of the bill. Representative Rankin responded to a question about how federal mineral lease monies are distributed under the bill. Ms. Petersen also responded to committee questions.

Commissioner Mike Samson, representing Garfield County, testified in support of the bill.

Commissioner Don Cook, representing Moffat County, testified in support of the bill.

Ms. Gini Pingenot, representing Colorado Counties, Inc., testified in support of the bill.

Ms. Petersen and Commissioner Samson responded to questions from the committee.

Representative Benavidez distributed and explained amendment L.001 [Attachment B]. Mr. Ed DeCecco, representing the Office of Legislative Legal Services, also discussed amendment L.001.

Representative Ranking made some closing comments on the bill.