State of Mexico deputy proposes prison terms for forest fires

Arleth Grimaldo Osorio, a deputy from the Morena party, has proposed legislative reforms in the State of Mexico to escalate forest fires to the category of serious crimes. The initiative seeks to establish prison sentences ranging from 10 to 15 years for those who intentionally start forest fires, particularly within Protected Natural Areas (ANP), or when there is a risk to human life or a presumed intent to change land use.

The proposal also targets public officials, suggesting prison terms of 15 to 20 years for those who authorize or facilitate illegal land-use changes in burned forests, ecological reserves, or environmental value zones. Such officials would also face dismissal and disqualification from public office.

Grimaldo noted that the State of Mexico has recorded 329 forest fires this year, according to data from the National Forestry Commission. The legislative project aims to reform the Penal Code, the Biodiversity Code, and the Administrative Code to prevent the use of fire as a tool for economic interests, such as converting forests into commercial developments.