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DENVER, CO – The House Agriculture, Water & Natural Resources Committee today passed legislation to prevent and mitigate wildfire destruction in Colorado. HB25-1009, sponsored Representative Tisha Mauro and Junie Joseph, would encourage local governments to reduce dead or dry vegetation that often fuels wildfires.
“Wildfire season in Colorado is now year round, and proactive mitigation can keep our communities safe,” said Rep. Tisha Mauro, D-Pueblo. “This bill encourages property owners to reduce dry, dead vegetation around their property, which can often accelerate wildfires. To keep communities safe from wildfires, we must put in the work now to mitigate fire risks.”
“We need more protective approaches to combat destructive wildfires, and this bill empowers local communities to reduce dead or dry vegetation," said Rep. Junie Joseph, D-Boulder. “Wildfires can spread quickly, and this bill not only works to proactively mitigate risks but also supports local communities and fire districts in their mission to keep our communities safe.”
HB25-1009, passed by a vote of 9 to 4 and would give fire protection and metropolitan districts the tools to mitigate fire risks locally, improving community safety. Specifically, the bill would encourage local governments to create programs to help property owners reduce dead or dry vegetation around their property.
Dry plant materials, such as leaves, grass, shrubs, dead leaves, and fallen pine needles, can accelerate wildfires. This bill aims to empower communities to reduce dry vegetation to keep neighborhoods, businesses and homes safer from destructive wildfires.
The House Agriculture, Water & Natural Resources Committee also passed another bill sponsored by Representative Mauro to keep Coloradans safe. HB25-1039, also sponsored by Representative Ron Weinberg, R-Loveland, will extend legal immunity to property owners when first responders access their property during an emergency.
HB25-1039, passed by a vote of 12-0 and aims to protect property owners from civil liability during an emergency, only if the emergency is not related to their negligence or misconduct.