The House Energy and Natural Resources Committee has decided to table House Bill 34, a bill focused on oil and gas regulations. The decision was made with a narrow vote of 6-5. The bill, sponsored by Representatives Debra Sariñana and Tara Lujan, aimed to expand the responsibilities of the Oil Conservation Division in protecting public health and the environment.
D’Val Westphal from the Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce expressed concerns over the bill's broad language. “While well-intentioned, this bill expands the responsibilities of the Oil Conservation Division broadly, vaguely, and exponentially,” Westphal stated.
Other organizations like NMOGA and the Permian Basin Petroleum Association also opposed the bill due to its vague language and potential for unintended consequences.
Representative Meredith Dixon raised questions about how "public health" is defined in the bill. Representative Nathan Small voiced concerns about potential impacts on oil production in New Mexico compared to Texas.
In another legislative development, House Bill 137 concerning a strategic water plan faced opposition due to its proposed funding mechanism—a new tax on produced water. Terri Cole from the Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce noted that while they support creating a strategic water supply, they are concerned about taxing oil and gas production.
Environmental groups also expressed concerns over potential toxic releases from produced water. The committee did not pass HB 137; instead, it was rolled over for possible amendments.
House Bill 102 aims to address sentencing issues related to vehicular homicide involving DWI. J.D. Bullington supported this measure, emphasizing that “murder is murder, and the punishment must fit the crime.” The bill seeks to close a loophole that allows reduced sentences through good time credits.
House Bill 103 received unanimous support in committee. This legislation proposes increasing penalties for assaulting police officers from a third-degree felony to a second-degree felony. J.D Bullington stressed the importance of supporting law enforcement officers who face daily dangers in their duties.
Lastly, House Bill 158 concerning military base infrastructure passed unanimously in committee. Representative Debra Sariñana presented this measure which allocates $12 million for local government projects aimed at supporting military bases' operational efficiency.
The day also saw cultural highlights with performances by Harrison Middle School’s rock band and honors given to Gallup/McKinley County as well as Valencia County for their contributions to New Mexico’s community life.
