At a Press Conference today, the New Mexico State Fire Board, comprised of State Corporation Commission Gloria Tristani and Commissioners Eric P. Serna and Jerome D. Block, in conjunction with the State Fire Marshal, announced that they will convene a hearing on May 17 to take testimony on whether they should issue an order temporarily restricting or banning the sale or use of fireworks in New Mexico. The Fire Board has ordered the Deputy Fire marshal to conduct an investigation and prepare a report to address key issues pertaining to the current drought conditions in New Mexico and whether or not those conditions make the sale or use of fireworks within the state a fire hazard. Under state law, the Board through the State Fire Marshal, has the authority to issue orders regarding fire prevention.
ÒWith the extreme weather conditions facing New Mexico, we are asking for the cooperation of all state, federal, tribal, local, fire and land management officials,Ó said Gloria Tristani. Echoing that viewpoint. Commissioner Jerome D. Block said, Òalthough we realize that most people are careful and conscientious, weÕre trying to remove any temptation from those who arenÕt.
The hearing will be conducted on Friday, May 17, 1996 at 9:30 a.m. in room 307 of the State Capitol Building, located between Don Gaspar Street, Paseo de Peralta and Old Santa Fe Trail in Santa Fe, New Mexico. The Board encourages the public to attend.
(A COPY OF THE NOTICE OF HEARING CAN BE OBTAINED BY CONTACTING CHAIRMAN TRISTANIÕS OFFICE AT 1-800-947-4722 OR 827-4531.)