H.R. 1011, the Virginia Ridge and Valley Act of 2007, by including language that would allow the use of motorized vehicles in Wilderness Areas for search and rescue efforts, in response to an Amber Alert, and other emergency situations in which the health and safety of an individual are at risk. Lamborn offered the measure at the request of House Republican Leadership and his Motion to Recommit (a form of amendment) was passed by a vote of 236 to 178.

“It is imperative that emergency personnel are able to use all available means to rescue anyone, whether child or adult, who is in danger. Today, I offered the Republican Motion to Recommit to the Virginia Ridge and Valley Act (H.R. 1011). This motion removes any ambiguity regarding the legality of responding to health and safety emergencies within the Wilderness Area designated by this bill. We cannot stand by and risk even a single human life; we must update the law to state clearly that motorized access will be available in emergencies.” – Congressman Doug Lamborn (CO-5)

“The Democratic majority in the House of Representatives drafted a poorly written bill that would have made it next to impossible for rescue workers to drive into national parks to save lives. Thankfully, Congressman Lamborn successfully included an amendment that vastly improved this bill so that local authorities can respond to emergency situations, making public safety a priority.” – Republican Whip, Congressman Roy Blunt (MO-7)

The law as it is currently written contains vague language with respect to access for motorized vehicles in cases of an emergency. The Lamborn measure clarifies the intent so that local authorities have clear guidelines on how to respond to emergency situations related to the wilderness area designated in H.R. 1011.

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