SANTA FE, N.M. (KRQE) – The state’s Legislative Finance Committee convened with leaders of various departments to discuss regulation and oversight of the oil and gas industry. The main point of concern was pollution.
The New Mexico Environment Department identified over 300 oil plumes they call methane “super emitters.” “There will be immediate causality for these operators once notified to take control of their methane emissions,” said Secretary James Kenney, New Mexico Environment Department.
The environment department also found elevated ozone levels across multiple counties which they said exceeded federal standards. They said raising fees on the industry will help reduce that pollution.