Sen. Shannon Pinto Senate District 3 | Sierra Club Rio Grande Chapter
Advocacy groups and residents in New Mexico have submitted 890 signatures and comments to the New Mexico Oil Conservation Commission (OCC), calling for updates to oil and gas bonding and cleanup rules. The petition was delivered as part of a public hearing on Case No. 24683, reflecting concern over abandoned wells and environmental protection.
“These reforms are long overdue,” said Camilla Feibelman, director of the Sierra Club Rio Grande Chapter. “New Mexicans across every region and political background agree: polluters should pay to clean up their own messes. These comments show that people are watching–and they’re demanding action.”
Community members from various regions shared their perspectives in the comments:
“These oil companies need to be responsible for cleaning the mess they create. Millions of dollars need to be put up front as collateral to make sure they clean up the contamination they created.” — Ted M., Carlsbad
“As a veteran and a New Mexican, I believe in responsibility. Oil and gas companies need to show up and do the right thing—like I was taught to do.” — Raymond B., Farmington
“New Mexicans should not have to pay the price of health problems related to pollution and the cost to clean up while corporations reap profits.” — Candace D., Gallup
“I want my grandchildren to grow up in a place that values health over profit.” — Delores L., Las Cruces
“We have to protect our land, our air, and most importantly, our water for future generations. This is a sacred responsibility.” — Daniel M., Albuquerque
The proposed rule changes would require oil and gas companies to provide financial assurance before drilling in high-risk situations, tighten regulations on well transfers, and mandate timely cleanup of inactive wells. Current state data indicate that cleanup liabilities range from $700 million to $1.6 billion, while operators may only post a small portion of those costs.
“This isn’t just a regulatory update–it’s a common-sense move toward fairness,” said Tannis Fox, senior attorney with the Western Environmental Law Center.“These changes would finally ensure that oil and gas corporations that profit from New Mexico’s natural resources also pay to clean up their mess. That’s what New Mexicans expect and deserve, as well as what the law requires.”
Recent polling shows strong support for these measures among residents; nearly 89% favor requiring oil and gas companies to cover full cleanup costs.
The OCC will continue its hearings virtually and in person through November 7. Public comment is scheduled each weekday at 9 am and 4 pm, with written submissions accepted by email.
