REP. HARLAN VINCENT CELEBRATES PASSAGE OF $100 MILLION RELIEF BILL FOR THOSE IMPACTED BY SOUTH FORK AND SALT FIRES DURING SPECIAL SESSION

On Thursday, July 18 the New Mexico Legislature passed a $100 million relief bill, sponsored by Rep. Harlan Vincent, for those impacted by the South Fork and Salt fires.

$10 million was also appropriated from the general fund to the homeland security and emergency management department. It will provide support for individuals and businesses throughout the application or claims process for receiving public assistance funding from the federal emergency management agency, and in making private insurance claims.

An additional $10 million will be directed to to the Indian affairs department for distribution to the Mescalero Apache Tribe for damages and losses caused by the South Fork and Salt fires.

Rep. Vincent was specially appointed to the House Appropriations Committee on Thursday to represent District 56 during discussion. In committee, Rep. Vincent stressed the dire need for this funding and thanked the surrounding areas who supported those who were impacted by the fires.

“This will help us stand back up,” Rep. Vincent said in committee while highlighting the strength and grit of the community.

“Our community has been devastated by the South Fork and Salt fires. Our residents have been displaced and an onslaught of flooding continues to bring destruction. The relief passed by the legislature today is critical for our restoration. I am grateful for the support that has been shown for our community. This is just the first step of our recovery process. I will continue to work tirelessly to ensure we rebuild and come back stronger than ever,” Rep. Vincent said.

Read the bill in its entirety HERE.