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2006 proved to be one of the most fruitful legislative sessions for the environment in recent history. Along with our partners in the conservation community, Environment Colorado was able to pass 17 bills and raise the profile of some of our most important issues—clean air, clean energy, global warming, smart growth and water quality.
Air quality rules in danger
Federal rollbacks threaten our state’s strong air quality rules, and Rep. Anne McGihon and Sen. Dan Grossman championed legislation that would have given the state the ability to keep our standards in place.
• While the measure passed narrowly through both houses, it was vetoed by Gov. Owens.
Clean energy makes progress
The Legislature considered bills to address our state’s growing energy needs including energy efficiency measures and incentives for using biodiesels.
• House Bill 1200 authorizes $19 million to be used for energy efficiency weatherization programs for low-income families. The measure passed and was signed into law.
• Gov. Owens vetoed establishing a Renewable Fuels Standard with strong incentives for cellulosic ethanol, which drastically reduces global warming emissions.
Colorado addresses global warming
House Bill 1322, the first bill in Colorado history to address global warming, will fund several studies on global warming to be done by CU, CSU and the Colorado School of Mines.
• Environment Colorado was able to guide passage of this bill. The research gathered will help evaluate options for Colorado industries to participate in emerging global carbon markets.
Encouraging smart growth
Two bills were considered in the Legislature to reduce sprawl by regulating the development of private toll roads. Thanks to almost 18 months of work, Environment Colorado finally passed the bills.
• Senate Bill 78 clarifies that private toll road companies do not have the power of eminent domain.
• House Bill 1003 establishes an environmental review and planning process for private toll roads.
Legislature considers water quality
House Bill 1352 would have protected water quality by allowing the water courts more control in protecting water quality when investigating quantity issues.
• The governor vetoed House Bill 1352. Environment Colorado will continue to advocate strong water quality protections. |
