Brian Colón, Managing Partner at Singleton Schreiber in New Mexico, was featured by Source NM on September 23, 2025, in an article titled, "FEMA to Appeal ‘Noneconomic’ Damages Ruling for Hermits Peak-Calf Canyon Fire Victims."
The article reported that FEMA is appealing federal court rulings requiring compensation for “noneconomic damages,” including emotional distress and suffering connected to the 2022 Hermits Peak-Calf Canyon Fire, the largest wildfire in New Mexico history.
Key points noted in the reporting include:
- Congress created a $5.5 billion compensation fund after the fire.
- Attorneys representing more than 1,000 victims have argued that both the legislation and New Mexico law support noneconomic claims.
- Those damages are estimated at about $400 million, in addition to nearly $3 billion already distributed for economic losses to more than 21,000 claimants.
Addressing FEMA’s recent appeal, Mr. Colón stated, “We hope to hear something soon as to the details of what they intend to appeal.”
Source NM notes that the Solicitor General of the United States will ultimately determine FEMA’s course of action.
