Title
A Resolution Supporting Reauthorization of the Colorado Lottery Division by the General Assembly in 2018
Presenter:
Karen Palus - Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Director
Body
Summary:
Lottery proceeds invest in parkland acquisition, park development and operations, trail construction and maintenance, environmental education, volunteer programs, and stewardship and natural resource management.
Per the constitution, Lottery net proceeds are allocated to Colorado state parks through Colorado Parks and Wildlife, to DOLA's Conservation Trust Fund, which allocates funds to eligible local governments on a per capita basis, and to Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO). Surplus funds go to the state's school capital construction fund Building Excellent Schools Today (BEST).
During its 2018 session the General Assembly will consider legislation to extend the Lottery Division and Great Outdoors Colorado program.
Previous Council Action:
N/A
Background:
After Colorado voters approved a state lottery in 1980, the General Assembly created a Lottery Division in the State Department of Revenue to administer the program. In 1992, voters adopted the Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO) amendment to the state constitution, earmarking up to 50% of annual Lottery proceeds to the trust.
The Colorado Lottery Division is critical to the administration of the entire GOCO program, as well as the Conservation Trust Fund and Colorado Parks and Wildlife. The Lottery Division is set to expire unless extended by the General Assembly, which during its 2018 session will consider legislation to extend the Division to 2039.
Since 1983, Lottery has returned more than $3 billion in proceeds to the people of Colorado for projects in all 64 counties. Lottery-funded projects have helped connect families to the outdoors; created and enhanced local trails and parks; built outdoor recreation facilities; preserved ranchlands, water resources, and view corridors; improved river a...
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