In an effort to meet its emission reduction targets and tackle climate change, New Mexico is moving forward with legislation that would grant the state primacy to permit carbon storage wells, commonly referred to as Class VI injection wells.
On Tuesday, the New Mexico House of Representatives passed House Bill 457 by a vote of 48-15. If enacted, the bill would authorize the state to issue permits for Class VI wells, which are currently regulated by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The bill now advances to the Senate for further consideration.
Rep. Meredith Dixon, D-Albuquerque, who sponsored the bill, noted that four states currently have the authority to permit these wells, while nine others have applied for the same right.
Additionally, 23 states and the Navajo Nation have expressed interest in obtaining this authority. Rep. Dixon emphasized that state primacy would allow New Mexico to establish stricter, locally-driven regulations for carbon sequestration.
With primacy, the state’s Energy, Minerals, and Natural Resources Department (EMNRD) would oversee the permitting, monitoring, and regulation of carbon sequestration projects.
Rep. Jimmy Mason, R-Artesia, argued that the real question is not whether carbon capture and storage (CCS) will be implemented, but who will manage it.
Relevant: Texas Seeks Primacy For Carbon Capture And Storage Permitting
Similarly, Rep. Mark Murphy, R-Roswell, expressed optimism about the potential benefits of carbon sequestration for the state, emphasizing that local control would be preferable.
However, some lawmakers, including Rep. Miguel Garcia, D-Albuquerque, voiced concerns about the effectiveness of carbon capture as a solution for climate change.
Rep. Garcia argued that some carbon capture projects in the US have failed to demonstrate their viability and may even contribute to increased emissions.
Read more: Louisiana Moves Closer To Primacy Over Class VI Wells
