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Senate advances severance-tax amendments to send 33% of certain tribal mineral revenues to local enterprise fund
Summary
Senate Bill 162, moved Feb. 15, would direct 33% of severance tax from specified Indian trust lands into an enterprise fund for capital projects in impacted areas; sponsors described a $400,000 start-up appropriation and projected $3.3 million in out years. The bill advanced with the amendment to use an enterprise fund.
Senate Bill 162, discussed at a time certain Feb. 15, 1995, proposes that 33% of severance tax collected on certain Indian trust lands — specifically on Indian trust lands and the Hill Creek extension — be placed into an enterprise fund dedicated to capital projects in areas impacted by mineral development.
Sponsor Senator Murray described the bill as the result of extensive negotiations involving the governor’s office, tribal representatives and local officials. Tribal chairman Stewart Pike and other Ute tribal members testified in support, urging cooperation between tribes, counties and state to direct impacts funding into local projects.
Floor amendments converted the proposed restricted fund into an enterprise fund following recommendations from the Department of Finance. The fiscal note cited on the floor shows an initial appropriation of $400,000 for the first year and projected annual receipts of $3,300,000 in later years, with a $2,000,000 cap discussed as a contingency should a large boom occur. Sponsors emphasized that funds should prioritize one-time capital projects rather than ongoing operating programs because severance tax is a one-time revenue source.
After amendment and discussion, the Senate recorded 25 ayes, no nays and 4 absent, advancing the bill toward the third-reading calendar.
