The governor of Nuevo León, Samuel García, has proposed to increase penalties for arsonists in the state, with the possibility of up to 15 years in prison without the possibility of bail. This measure is aimed at improving air quality in the region. During the first session of the Metropolitan Environmental Commission in Government Palace, García highlighted the importance of protecting and expanding natural areas in Nuevo León.
In this regard, the governor expressed: "Today we are going to ask Congress to support us in modifying the State Penal Code so that all types of fire are considered serious, not just forest fires, to increase the penalty and to let these provocateurs know that we will be vigilant and attentive so that there is punishment for those who provoke a fire." García emphasized the need to hold accountable those who cause fires so that they do not go unpunished.
Among the additional proposed measures are greater control of vehicle emissions, the prohibition of burning garbage, penalties for owners of vacant lots for accumulated weeds, as well as the installation of cameras to detect environmental crimes. There is also a goal for greater coordination with federal authorities to reduce industrial emissions and improve fuel quality.
Regarding the additional proposals presented, there was discussion about the need to apply stricter regulations on vacant lots, combat illegal garbage dumping, and prevent forest fires, especially in the mountains. It was mentioned that the Army has deployed 2,000 personnel in the state to confront fires and protect both people and nature.
In this context, the importance of private industry collaboration in hiring water trucks to prevent the spread of fires in industrial areas was emphasized. Additionally, the need to involve more authorities in environmental management and establish delegatory agreements for joint work between the state, municipalities, and the federal government in environmental protection was proposed.
The government of Nuevo León also launched an initiative to provide daily information via the website aire.nl.gob.mx about the weather forecast and air quality in the region, with the aim of raising awareness among the population about the importance of caring for the environment and preventing man-made fires. The protection and expansion of natural areas has been positioned as a priority to conserve the state’s environment and improve quality of life.
