(1) The general assembly finds, determines, and declares that:

(a) Wildfires are a part of the natural cycle of Colorado's forests, yet increasingly pose a severe threat to human life and property;

(b) People are attracted to the forest and mountain areas of the state and increasingly choose to make their homes in what is known as the "wildland-urban interface", where wildland areas meet residential development;

(c) For many years now, residential areas in numerous parts of the state are regularly threatened by a close proximity to wildfires and, tragically, during the spring and summer of 2012, Colorado wildfires resulted in the loss of life and extensive property damage, including the destruction of homes affecting thousands of people;

(d) Since wildfires cause annual harm to many areas of the state and those residing in such areas, wildfire prevention and mitigation is a matter of extreme importance throughout the state and an issue demanding critical attention from the general assembly on a regular basis.

(2) The purpose of this part 16 is to provide a permanent interim committee as a forum through which the general assembly reviews state policies and resources addressing wildfire prevention and mitigation and the successful implementation and execution of such policies. In creating a permanent interim committee to address matters relating to wildfires, the general assembly intends that issues relating to wildfire prevention and mitigation receive sufficient legislative scrutiny and public participation.