From the X post:
Gov.-elect Phil Weiser named Scott Steinbrecher, currently Deputy Attorney General for Natural Resources and Environment, as his Senior Director of Water Policy. This is a new cabinet-level position intended to coordinate water policy across state government, with an emphasis on innovation, infrastructure, and balancing urban and rural priorities. A similar “water czar” role existed under former Gov. John Hickenlooper (held by John Stulp).
Steinbrecher’s background:
- With the Colorado Attorney General’s office since 2009.
- Currently leads a team of about 70 lawyers and staff representing the Department of Natural Resources and the Department of Public Health & Environment.
- Deep experience in Colorado water law: has represented the state in interstate compact negotiations and disputes; previously advised the AG on water policy and led a team of 15 attorneys representing the State Engineer, Colorado Water Conservation Board, and compact commissioners.
- Co-chaired (with then-State Engineer Kevin Rein) a 2020 antispeculation task force aimed at strengthening laws against water speculation. The task force’s 2021 report made no legislative recommendations; a follow-up bill in 2022 was weakened and died.
- Education: J.D. from Boston University School of Law; B.A. in philosophy from Whitman College.
- He and his family support the Children’s Hospital Colorado Foundation on genetic testing and research.