In 2010, Colorado and FERC entered into an MOU to encourage the development of small hydropower. The MOU required the state to prescreen proposed hydropower projects and submit the exemption application to relevant resource agencies. FERC then agreed to act on the application within 30 days and either request additional information, issue a deficiency letter, or issue a notice of acceptance of the application. In 2014, the Colorado Legislature passed legislation streamlining state environmental review for small hydropower projects. The 2014 legislation requires the state to provide streamlined permitting assistance to qualifying small hydropower projects. In line with the initial memorandum program, the CEO coordinates and compiles state agency comments when qualifying small hydropower projects apply for a FERC exemption or authorization.