SANTA FE, N.M. (KRQE) – New Mexico lawmakers are considering a bill to change the state’s oil and gas laws, which could boost environmental compliance. But, a part of the bill requiring setbacks, or separations, between new production facilities and schools and healthcare buildings has been stripped from the proposal.
House Bill 133 , sponsored by Rep. Kristina Ortez (D-Taos) and Rep. Matthew McQueen (D-Sandoval and Santa Fe Counties), aims to make several changes to the state’s Oil and Gas Act. For example, the initial version of the bill would facilitate conversions of oil facilities into geothermal sites and increase the penalty for polluting and noncomplying oil operators.
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The initial version of the bill would have also required new oil well pads, compressor stations, and other oil facilities to be set back a certain distance from schools, homes, ponds, and state parks. But those requirements were removed once the bill made it to the House Energy, Environment and Natural Resources Committee.