Colorado Delegation Urges Trump to Release $140M Colorado River Funds

Colorado's entire congressional delegation, comprising both Democrats and Republicans, is urging the Trump administration to release $140 million in federal funds that were awarded to 17 critical water projects in the state during the final days of the Biden administration. The funding, originating from the Inflation Reduction Act, was paused by an executive order from President Trump, stalling projects aimed at drought resilience, habitat restoration, and water infrastructure improvements across the Colorado River Basin. Only two projects, totaling about $12 million, have received funding so far, while the remaining projects—essential for addressing the impacts of a 25-year drought—remain unfunded. Lawmakers emphasize that these 'Bucket 2' projects are vital not just for Colorado but for the overall resilience of the Colorado River Basin, impacting water security for multiple states. The bipartisan letter to the Department of the Interior and Bureau of Reclamation highlights the urgent need to move forward with all the projects to support ecosystems, communities, and agricultural needs. The Trump administration has stated it is reviewing the funding to ensure alignment with its priorities, but Colorado's delegation continues to press for the full release of the promised funds.