Sen. Shannon Pinto Senate District 3 | Sierra Club Rio Grande Chapter
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Acting Administrator Andrew Wheeler has proposed changes to the EPA's Methane Rules, which have been in place for nearly a year. These rules were initially introduced during the Obama Administration and received support from over 27,000 New Mexicans who favored measures to curb oil and gas waste and pollution.
The current regulations aim to limit methane emissions, a significant greenhouse gas, from oil and gas infrastructure. They also protect communities from other harmful pollutants such as benzene and volatile organic compounds. Many residents of New Mexico are directly impacted by this pollution, often living near or on properties with active wells.
Critics argue that Wheeler's proposal is a concession to major oil and gas companies at the expense of public health in New Mexico. The existing rules are also considered crucial for the United States' adherence to the Paris Climate Agreement.
Once these proposed changes are published in the Federal Register, there will be a 60-day comment period, with a public hearing expected in Denver.
This move by the Trump Administration is seen as part of a broader effort to weaken regulations aimed at reducing methane emissions and other pollutants from oil and gas operations. The proposal could lead to increased pollution levels and less efficient energy systems, impacting American communities negatively.
Despite these developments, many New Mexicans continue to advocate for stringent methane regulations similar to those in Colorado, California, and Pennsylvania. Community members are actively gathering signatures for state-level safeguards through initiatives like https://methanemattersnm.org/.
Camilla Feibelman can be contacted for further information at camilla.feibelman@sierraclub.org or 505-715-8388.
