J_CDC_2021A 06/02/2021 07:31:45 AM Committee Summary

Representatives Will and McLachlan, co-prime sponsors, presented House Bill 21-1326, concerning 2020-21 state fiscal year transfers from the general fund to support outdoor recreation. The sponsors presented the bill under House Rule 50. Representative Will explained the effect of the bill and discussed its need. Senator Story, the prime sponsor of the bill in the Senate, discussed the merits of the legislation. Representative McLachlan provided additional input on the bill. Doug Vilsack, Assistant Director for Parks, Wildlife, and Lands, Department of Natural Resources, responded to questions regarding the use of moneys in the Wildlife Cash Fund, and House Bill 21-1318. Mr. Vilsack responded to further questions regarding money to be dedicated to the Parks and Outdoor Recreation Cash Fund under HB 21-1326, and how moneys appropriated by the bill will be used to improve state parks.

Lu Cordova, Governor's Advisor for Efficiencies and Digital Transformation, briefed the committee on the planned construction of a renewable energy park on state-owned land in Jefferson County. Ms. Cordova responded to questions regarding what the energy park will feature, and sources of funding for the project. Ms. Cordova responded to further questions regarding the timeline for the project, and the integration of the property to host the clean energy park with neighboring properties.