The public comment period for the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) proposal to reduce methane pollution safeguards concluded recently. EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler's plan aims to change key protections that limit emissions from new oil and gas operations.

Methane is a potent greenhouse gas, significantly more impactful than carbon dioxide while it remains in the atmosphere. The EPA has recognized that methane and other pollutants limited by these safeguards are significant threats to public health, especially for children.

During the sole public hearing on this proposal in Denver last month, most speakers supported maintaining current protections. By the end of the comment period, nearly 400,000 submissions were made opposing the rollback of these regulations.

In New Mexico, thousands voiced their objections, including over 50 elected leaders who endorsed a letter from local officials nationwide against weakening these rules.

Camilla Feibelman of Sierra Club - Rio Grande Chapter stated: "Hundreds of Thousands Speak Out Against Wheeler’s Rollback of Methane Protections."