(1) The general assembly finds, determines, and declares that the purpose of this article is to provide an interim committee as a forum through which the general assembly shall review the statewide planning, administration, and monitoring of Colorado's water resources. The general assembly recognizes its mandate to vigorously protect and defend Colorado's finite supply of water. The general assembly further recognizes the need to ensure that water issues receive sufficient legislative scrutiny and public input:
To maximize the benefit derived from Colorado's surface water and groundwaterresources;
To evaluate the present and future water needs of the state;
To ensure effective water rights administration;
To protect water quality and water quantity;
To ensure that Colorado's interstate water compact agreements are met and, in relation thereto, that Colorado's water resources are protected against unwarranted claims; and (f) To continue the studies of the special water committee pursuant to Senate Bill 96074.
Source: L. 2001: Entire article added, p. 725, § 1, effective July 1. L. 2014: IP(1) amended, (SB 14-115), ch. 187, p. 699, § 2, effective May 15.