Here’s a look at today’s headlines:
The Black Range Complex Fires on the Black Range Ranger District, located 65 miles northwest of T or C, are currently 10% contained. Today, the Black Range Complex Fire will begin demobilizing fire line personnel. Dozer operations are being considered for road repairs and a reconnaissance flight will occur to remove communication equipment from the fire line. The Boiler Fire remains in monitoring status. All temporary Area Closure Orders have been lifted within the vicinity of the Black Range Complex Fires. As conditions warrant, future closure orders could be reposted if additional fire activities increase within the Black Range Complex management area.
The Centers for Medicare/Medicaid Services (CMS) will be implementing the Medicare Outpatient Observation Notice (MOON) program nationwide. This will impact Medicare patients placed in “observation status” in a hospital for more than 24-hours. During this time, a patient will receive the best care possible, including any necessary diagnostic tests or lab work, and will be designated as an “Outpatient” for insurance purposes while their health status is monitored. After 24 hours of observation, a doctor is required by law to inform the Medicare patient of their “observation” status.
Senator Howie Morales has asked Attorney General Hector Balderas in a letter to investigate the June 11 traffic stop of Sixth Judicial District Attorney Francesca Estevez. The letter indicated three issues with what happened during the traffic stop; including Estevez’ alleged preferential treatment, the possible tarnishing of her office and potential abuse of power that could force her resignation. Morales also wants Attorney General Balderas to look at what protocols need to be changes and what additional education of officers is needed.
The Bureau of Land Management and US Forest Service are seeking comments on El Paso Electric’s Arizona Interconnection Project 34 kV transmission line. El Paso Electric has authorization from the BLM and US Forest Service for the existing transmission line and has applied to amend their right-of-way to include access and structure work locations. El Paso Electric needs the access routes and structure work locations to facilitate necessary transmission line maintenance activities on public lands in Catron, Sierra, Socorro and Luna Counties. There will be a 30-day public comment period from July 27 to August 25. The public may review the documents here: https://eplanning.blm.gov/epl-front-office/eplanning/nepa_register.do.
