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 bill changes the language from stating that the canal project "shall" be developed to "may," indicating a shift in the obligation of the state regarding the project. Additionally, it mandates 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.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the responsibilities of the Department of Natural Resources in utilizing the Perkins County Canal Project Fund to identify the optimal route, purchase land, and conduct a study on the canal's development. This study will assess costs, timelines, and potential impacts on drinking water supplies for major cities. The findings of this study are required to be presented to the Legislature by December 31, 2022. The bill also includes a provision for an emergency declaration, allowing it to take effect immediately upon passage and approval.

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