Page 17 - Source New News Today

Three bills proposed for the New Mexico legislative session would shift the state’s focus on the oil and gas industry by emphasizing public safety and environmental protections, denying permits and increasing penalties for companies in violation of the law, and making it easier for citizen groups to sue scofflaw operators.

The Public School Ventilation Act would help keep students, staff and teachers healthy, the bills sponsor says.

Advocacy groups praised the governor’s proposal for a boost in state environment programs, but activists also urged the state government to do more to fight climate change in a busy opening day of the 2023 legislative session.

During a two-hour meeting, the air buzzed with requests, concerns and questions for state lawmakers about how to spend a $3.6 billion budget surplus.

The Public School Ventilation Act would help keep students, staff and teachers healthy, the bills sponsor says.

A failed Republican candidate who authorities said was angry over his defeat and made baseless claims the election last November was "rigged" against him was arrested in connection with a series of drive-by shootings targeting the homes of Democratic lawmakers in New Mexico's largest city.

A political version of musical chairs concluded last week during a meeting of the Bernalillo County Commission, tasked with filling empty legislative seats over the last couple of months.

New Mexico would deliver Texas its water at the state line, with new guidelines for farmers south of Elephant Butte.

During the 2023 legislative session, it’s looking like there will be no requirement for vaccination against COVID-19 to enter the Roundhouse, nor any requirement to wear masks.

New Mexico state lawmakers will consider public incentives aimed at attracting investments in hydrogen production and distribution as a potential new source of industrial employment and an alternative for vehicles and factories that rely on climate-warming fossil fuels, as the legislature convenes next week.