Christine Scanlan

 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 4, 2009

For more information:
Katie Reinisch 303-866-2774
Rep. Scanlan 970-470-0397
Sen. Gibbs 303-866-4873

COLORADO
MAJORITY COMMUNICATIONS
STATE CAPITOL

New Wildfire-Plan Law Led by Gibbs and Scanlan Goes Into Effect Tomorrow

(DENVER) Wednesday, August 5 marks the day that a number of new laws spearheaded by Democratic legislators and signed by Governor Ritter go into effect. State Representative Christine Scanlan and Senator Dan Gibbs (both D-Summit County) led several vital forest-health bills through the legislative process and are proud to watch the cornerstone bill, Senate Bill 1, become law on Wednesday.

Senate Bill 1 was at the top of Gov. Ritter’s agenda. With his leadership, Sen. Gibbs and Rep. Scanlan crafted a law which will establish comprehensive, locally-led, community wildfire protection plans throughout the state.
"This is an aggressive step forward for Colorado," said Rep. Scanlan. "It's critical legislation, providing state entities, private landowners and local communities assistance in addressing wildfire threats using innovative strategies. This new law will facilitate market-based solutions to help Colorado effectively combat the bark beetle infestation.”

“As a wildland firefighter I know how important community prevention plans are in terms public safety for the citizens of Colorado,” said Sen. Gibbs. “This law will help communities prioritize, prevent, and prepare for wildfires in their area."

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