Senators flag zebra-mussel preparedness during routine adoption of boat-stamp bill

The Senate Appropriations Committee adopted House Bill 1197, a program tied to boat-stamp licensing and water-safety, but the measure prompted an extended policy aside about zebra mussels and invasive-species funding.

Vice chair moved the bill, and Senator Bridges used his remarks to press the panel and agencies about zebra-mussel prevention and funding. “I am deeply concerned about zebra mussels in this state,” Bridges said, calling for greater investment to stop spread from the Western Slope to the Front Range and urging the Department of Natural Resources to do more.

Senator Kipp responded with program detail, saying the bill focuses on boat stamps for water safety, while a separate aquatic nuisance species cash fund—funded by severance tax receipts—houses zebra-mussel work. Kipp offered to share information with the committee and recommended follow-up with DNR and the Joint Budget Committee.

Committee members agreed to place the bill on the consent calendar; the bill passed unanimously. Several senators asked staff to note DNR for follow-up on zebra-mussel funding and preparedness.