The Independent Petroleum Association of New Mexico (IPANM) has expressed its condolences following the death of New Mexico State Senator John Arthur Smith, who was the former Chair of the Legislative Finance Committee.

Jim Winchester, Executive Director of IPANM, issued a statement highlighting Senator Smith's contributions: “Senator John Arthur Smith will be remembered as one of the most respected legislators in the history of the New Mexico state legislature. He never flinched to give effusive praise and credit to New Mexico’s independent producers as the backbone of the oil & gas industry, and he fought tirelessly to defend the industry against frivolous legislation that would have disproportionately hurt our member companies."

Winchester also praised Smith's personal qualities: "As much as he will forever be respected for his political savvy, he was an even better individual of integrity who was generous with his time with not only our members, but anyone who walked into his office in Santa Fe.”

The news of Senator Smith's passing has been covered by several local publications, including today's Albuquerque Journal.