CFFF Newsletter - February 6, 2024

Good afternoon Coalition for Fire Fund Fairness Memebers, Allies, and Family,

I hope this email finds you well and having a good week.

Join us today, Tuesday, 02/06/2024 via ZOOM at 5:15 PM. Fight for what you believe in! The Coalition for Fire Fund Fairness is thrilled to announce our support for Senate Bill 174 - Calf Canyon Fire Legal Services Gross Receipts. The trauma left by the Hermit's Peak/Calf Canyon wildfires continues to resonate in the small communities of San Miguel, Mora, and Taos counties, where the fire wreaked havoc.

It's unjust for victims to bear the financial burden of the federal government's liabilities, especially considering the magnitude of the disaster – the largest wildfire in state history and one of the worst the US has ever witnessed. Senate Bill 174 is a crucial step towards ensuring fairness and justice for those affected.

A heartfelt thank you to all elected officials for their commitment to helping Northern New Mexico. Together, we strive to bring relief to the communities grappling with the aftermath of this devastating wildfire. Your support is instrumental in fostering a fair and equitable path forward.

If you would like to join us now via ZOOM, please register below, send an email to:

STBTC.Zoom@NMLegis.Gov

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85614440294

Webinar ID: 856 1444 0294

ZOOM Call: 1-669-900-9128

Below are some talking points for those joining via ZOOM Talking Points:

The trauma inflicted by the Hermit's Peak/Calf Canyon Wildfire will forever impact the small communities in San Miguel, Mora and Taos counties where the fire burned.
The fire also had a major impact across New Mexico because many of our family and friends were victims.
The victims of the fire are still burdened by prolonged suffering because claims submitted to FEMA have not been paid and mismanagement of the Hermit's Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office continues to slow the process.
That is why the Coalition for Fire Fund Fairness (CFFF) has been diligently fighting for victims and ensuring that the claims process is fair and transparent. And while we continue to hold FEMA accountable, it is important that we recognize how state laws will impact victims once their claims are paid.
That is why SB174 is so important.
It provides additional relief to victims and makes them whole after they have navigated the arduous federal claims process through FEMA.
Victims should not be expected to foot the bill for the federal government's liabilities after they caused the biggest wildfire in state history.
CFFF believes that our community deserves a fair and transparent process.

We thank all of the state elected officials who have spoken out about the mismanagement of the FEMA claims office, and we thank everyone here today for putting forward SB174 to provide additional relief to victims.

All my best,