Legislation to Improve Wildfire Mitigation in Rural Communities Passes House

DENVER, CO – The House today passed legislation to improve wildfire mitigation in rural communities. HB24-1006, sponsored by Representatives Elizabeth Velasco and Marc Snyder, would make it easier for rural communities to locate and apply for state and federal wildfire prevention grants. 

“Rural communities like mine are often most at risk for wildfire-related damage and displacement,” said Rep. Elizabeth Velasco, D-Glenwood Springs. “This bill would connect rural communities to state and federal wildfire mitigation grants and assist with the application process. From improved emergency response efforts to risk management, there are many things that communities can do to ease the impact of wildfires. This bill uplifts rural communities and connects them to the resources they need to mitigate wildfires and keep their homes and businesses safe.” 

“Rural communities often have fewer resources to mitigate destructive wildfires, which can leave communities in disarray,” said Rep. Marc Snyder, D-Manitou Springs. “This bill makes it easier for our rural communities to find and apply for state and federal wildfire mitigation grants. From wildfire prevention tactics to increased emergency response efforts, there are many wildfire mitigation efforts that can keep our communities safe and better prepared.”

HB24-1006, which passed by a vote of 57 to 7, would help rural communities find and apply for state and federal wildfire mitigation grants. Specifically, this bill would establish a rural grant navigator program within the Colorado State Forest Service to aid rural communities in locating and applying for wildfire mitigation grants. Grants can help communities obtain the resources they need to combat wildfires through prevention tactics, response efforts, and risk management.