New Mexico's legislative push for oil and gas reform

New Mexico legislators are considering a series of transformative bills aimed at regulating the oil and gas industry.

Jerry Redfern reports for Capital & Main.

In short:

New Mexico's legislature is reviewing bills that could significantly alter oil and gas industry operations, including new well placement restrictions and increased fines.
The proposed legislation includes mandatory fines for spills, restrictions on water usage in operations, and the creation of child health protection zones near schools.
The state, a major oil producer, faces challenges in balancing industry interests with environmental and public health concerns.

Key quote:

“By now [industry] should … know better than to put gas and oil wells right by schools because of the effect they’re going to have. They know about this — they’ve known about it for years.”

— Rep. Debra Sariñana

Visit EHN's energy section for more top news about energy, climate and health.

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