41-2-123. Project studies generally; hearings; reimbursement of costs; source of funding; use of unobligated funds; recommendations to legislature.

(a) The commission, after public notice, is authorized to conduct public workshops and public hearings in the affected regions on projects which have been approved for study by the legislature pursuant to W.S. 41-2-114.

(b) For each project authorized for Level I or Level II study by the legislature, the commission shall make a recommendation on the following alternatives:

(i) Proceed with next level of activity;

(ii) Continue study at the presently authorized level of activity; or

(iii) Terminate consideration of the project.

(c) Funds appropriated by the legislature for Level I reconnaissance studies and Level II feasibility studies may be included in the costs to be reimbursed by project beneficiaries as provided by W.S. 41-2-112(b)(ii), unless otherwise specifically provided by the legislature.

(d) For projects completed and in use prior to 1970, the funding for Level I and Level II activities shall come from those within water development account II unless otherwise specifically provided by the legislature.

(e) The water development commission may commence and contract for a Level II feasibility study of a project using unobligated funds authorized by law for a Level I reconnaissance study of the project if:

(i) The Level I study is substantially complete;

(ii) The due date for the Level I study report established by the legislature has not occurred;

(iii) The commission finds the Level II study to be in the best interest of the state;

(iv) The select water committee created under W.S. 28-11-101 reviews the commission request to proceed with the Level II study.

(f) All recommendations, including proposed legislation, from the water development commission to the legislature required by law regarding specific water projects shall be presented to the select water committee created by W.S. 28-11-101 not later than fifteen (15) days prior to commencement of the legislature to which the reports are due. The committee shall review and make recommendations to the legislature regarding commission recommendations and proposed legislation.