Representative Velasco, co-prime sponsor, introduced House Bill 25-1078. The bill authorizes Colorado State University to implement various initiatives to engage youth in opportunities related to forestry and wildfire. It also requires the Department of Public Safety to award grants for firefighter certifications, provide train-the-trainer opportunities, and conduct an outreach campaign related to firefighting opportunities.

The bill sponsor responded to questions from the committee.

Mr. Matt McCombs, representing Colorado State Forest Service, testified in support of the bill.  Larimer County Commissioner Jody  Shadduck-McNally, representing Counties & Commissioners Acting Together (CCAT) & The Forest Health Council, testified in support of the bill. Jia Meeks, representing Colorado State University, was available to answer committee questions.

The panelists responded to questions from the committee.

The committee discussed amendment L.001 (Attachment A).

The bill sponsor provided closing comments on the bill.

Committee members gave closing comments on the bill.