This bill amends sections 61-302 and 61-305 of the Revised Statutes Cumulative Supplement, 2024, to restate the intent regarding the Perkins County Canal Project and to facilitate the transfer of funds from the Perkins County Canal Project Fund to the General Fund and the Water Sustainability Fund. Notably, the language in section 61-302 is changed to indicate that the canal project "may" be developed rather than "shall," reflecting a shift in the legislative intent regarding the project's necessity. Additionally, section 61-305 introduces provisions for the State Treasurer to transfer $250 million from the Perkins County Canal Project Fund to both the General Fund and the Water Sustainability Fund by June 30, 2025.

The bill also outlines the responsibilities of the Department of Natural Resources in utilizing the Perkins County Canal Project Fund to identify optimal routes, purchase land, and conduct studies related to the canal's development. These studies will assess costs, timelines, and potential impacts on drinking water supplies for major cities. The original sections of the law being amended are repealed, and the bill is declared to take effect immediately due to the existence of an emergency.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 61-302, 61-305