Gov. Hickenlooper Signs Disaster Declaration For High Park Fire
DENVER (AP) - Gov. John Hickenlooper has signed a disaster declaration allocating $20 million to help fight a fire that has killed one person and damaged more than 100 structures.
Hickenlooper verbally approved the disaster declaration hours after the fire started Saturday and authorized the use of Colorado National Guard resources. He formally signed an executive order for both actions Tuesday.
The governor's office says $12 million of the $20 million being allocated for firefighting costs will come from the Major Medical Insurance Fund, and $8 million will come from severance tax money.
The money will assist with government costs by state and local agencies or nonprofit groups working on behalf of government entities.
Hickenlooper's order also authorizes state agencies to apply for federal aid.
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