Rep. Salazar Applauds Governor Ritter For Signing Pinon Canyon Bill

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. John Salazar (CO-3) released the following statement today in support of Governor Bill Ritter who signed legislation making it difficult for the Army to use eminent domain powers to expand the Pinon Canyon Maneuver Site located in Southeastern Colorado.

“I commend the governor for signing House Bill 1069 into law.  As an Army veteran whose father and son have served in the military, I’m a patriot and supporter of America’s armed forces-especially the United States Army.  But I can’t support the abuse of eminent domain laws.  They should only be used in extreme circumstances and to better the community as a whole. That is why I requested last week that the Army cease their expansion plans.

“HB 1069 upholds the constitution by protecting private property rights.  It supports local farmers and ranchers by defending their way of life.  In an area that is already economically starving, this type of expansion could devastate Las Animas County. I appreciate the governor working to protect the citizens of Southeastern Colorado.”

Rep. Salazar is the only military veteran in the Colorado delegation.