Biden said the federal government will cover the full cost of the wildfire response in New Mexico, while also acknowledging the role the US Forest Service played in starting the Calf Canyon/Hermits Peak Fire
"I think we have a responsibility as a government to deal with the communities who are put in such jeopardy. And today I am announcing that the federal government is covering 100% of the cost," Biden said to applause in Santa Fe.The fire, which is at over 300,000 scorched acres, is the largest wildfire ever in the state.
The President approved a major disaster declaration for five New Mexico counties affected by the fires last month. But the federal government was only responsible for 75% of response costs, with the state picking up the remaining 25%. The President on Saturday said the federal government will now waive that 25% share."This will really be a strong bridge until we pass the Hermits Peak Fire Assistance Act," Biden said.