Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham of New Mexico has signed several legislative bills as part of the state's 50-Year Water Action Plan, advancing water conservation, quality protection, and public health measures.
"Today marks a turning point for New Mexico’s water future," stated Lujan Grisham. The governor emphasized that the Strategic Water Supply program "unlocks economic opportunities by providing brackish water for manufacturing and clean energy development, while preserving our freshwater for other vital uses."
House Bill 137, sponsored by a group that includes Rep. Susan K. Herrera and Sen. George K. Muñoz, establishes the Strategic Water Supply program. This initiative focuses on conserving limited freshwater resources by promoting the treatment of brackish water for economic development uses. "House Bill 137 represents a new day for New Mexico’s water future," said Herrera.
Senate Bill 21, spearheaded by Sen. Peter Wirth among others, aims to modernize the Water Quality Act, enhancing the protection of state water resources. This follows the narrowing of federal oversight by the U.S. Supreme Court's 2023 decision in Sackett v. EPA. Wirth expressed, "Senate Bill 21 finally gives New Mexicans control over the quality of our surface water."
Rep. Kristina Ortez, another supporter, noted the state-level control over water decisions. Rep. Melanie Stansbury praised the legislative efforts, saying, "These protections are vital in the wake of the Federal Administration and Supreme Courts’ undermining of national water quality protections."
Additionally, bills targeting PFAS chemicals were signed to protect against health risks associated with these substances. House Bill 212, supported by Sen. Jeff Steinborn and others, phases out consumer products with intentionally added PFAS, exempting certain industrial applications. "It’s time for states to break the cycle of PFAS moving through our economy and our environment," said Environment Secretary James Kenney.
House Bill 140 further designates PFAS-laden firefighting foams as hazardous waste, ensuring state regulation. "Our PFAS legislation protects public health and shifts cleanup costs from taxpayers to polluters," remarked Lujan Grisham.
These legislative measures aim to support sustainable water management and public health and are seen as significant steps in New Mexico's environmental and economic policies.
