Colorado creates wildlife crossings fund

Colorado Governor Jared Polis signed a bill that creates an optional fund that drivers can pay into to fund wildlife crossings, reports Bryce Patterson for KKTV11.

The law, SB26-141, institutes an optional $5 fee drivers can add to their vehicle registration which will fund wildlife crossing infrastructure. According to bill sponsor Dylan Roberts, "This infrastructure is proven to reduce collisions with wildlife, protect humans and animals, and save drivers money. I’m proud to sponsor this bipartisan solution to create a sustainable, voluntary funding source that will make our roads safer, especially in rural Colorado."

According to a press release from Pew praising the move, the total estimated cost of wildlife-vehicle collisions in Colorado is $321 million, higher than in any other western state. Pew estimates that the fee will raise over $4 million each year.