New Mexico House Bill HB138

New Mexico 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/22

Caption

Electric Generating Emission Standards Dates

Impact

The bill stipulates that any electric generating facility with a capacity exceeding three hundred megawatts that uses coal as a fuel source must not emit more than one thousand one hundred pounds of carbon dioxide per megawatt-hour after the new compliance date. This regulation aligns New Mexico's standards more closely with federal regulations concerning air quality while allowing local boards the authority to adopt even stricter laws if necessary.

Summary

House Bill 138 introduces amendments to the Air Quality Control Act in New Mexico, primarily focusing on the regulation of carbon dioxide emissions from electric generating facilities. The bill changes the implementation date for emission limits from January 1, 2023, to January 1, 2026. This delay in the timeline aims to provide more time for power plants, primarily those using coal, to adapt to the new standards set for limiting their carbon dioxide output.

Contention

Support and opposition to HB138 reflect broader debates surrounding environmental policy and fossil fuel dependency. Proponents argue that this bill represents a necessary step towards combating climate change and ensuring cleaner air for New Mexico residents. Conversely, opponents express concerns regarding economic implications for coal-dependent communities, fearing that stringent regulations could drive up costs for electricity and impact jobs in the coal industry. The extended compliance period is also seen as a compromise, but some advocates argue that it does not go far enough in addressing urgent climate issues.