SANTA FE, New Mexico — A controversial climate bill that seeks to embed greenhouse gas reduction targets into state law narrowly cleared its first legislative hurdle this week. Lawmakers debated with competing visions of economic stability and environmental protection.
Senate Bill 18, also known as the Clear Horizons Act, moved forward on a 5-4 vote in the Senate Conservation Committee. It took at least four hours for the legislators to debate on Tuesday.
Once approved, the bill would codify pollution reduction goals set by Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham’s 2019 executive order into statute. The goals include cutting emissions by 45 percent below 2005 levels by 2030, by 75 percent by 2040, and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
Lawmakers push climate urgency
Proponents said the bill is an important step toward protecting public health and sustaining the state’s long-term prosperity.
“These goals aren’t just aspirational — they’re an investment in our future,” said Senate Pro Tempore Mimi Stewart (D-Albuquerque), the bill’s sponsor.
He argued that the legislation provides New Mexico with tools for planned, responsible emissions reduction without sacrificing jobs.
Supporters of the measure also stressed the rising costs associated with climate-driven disasters and pollution. They argued that early action can prevent far greater economic losses in the future. Statistics on the impact of climate change over the next 20 years, they said, could cost New Mexico nearly $294 billion in infrastructure losses, health impacts, and disaster response costs.
Critics warn of economic harm
But critics — including the three Senate Republicans on the committee — slammed the proposal. They argued that the bill threatens the state’s economy, particularly in the oil, gas, agriculture, and construction sectors.
“Passing this legislation will kill New Mexico’s economic future,” said Sen. Larry Scott (R-Hobbs).
He said that strict statewide mandates could reduce fossil fuel production, diminish government revenue, and put jobs at risk.
Opponents also chided the bill for what they described as unrealistic targets. These targets, they said, fail to account for “real-world consequences” for consumers and industry, echoing broader concerns among business groups about regulatory burdens.
The bill threatens to devastate New Mexico’s economy if approved, according to the New Mexico Oil and Gas Association. The group warned that the bill could reduce state revenue from oil and gas by more than $740 million. And it will put families at risk and eliminate nearly one-third of the education budget.
Lands, health, and economics at the center stage
The hearing drew significant public interest. Resource persons came from a broad range of voices — from former oil workers-turned-health advocates urging cleaner air to industry representatives. They warned of higher utility rates and economic disruption.
Sen. Angel Charley (D-Acoma) invoked environmental and cultural urgency. The Democrat lawmaker said New Mexicans must now “take care of the land” that has long sustained their
The bill is now heading to further consideration in the Senate. Supporters of the measure have expressed confidence that the bill could eventually reach Gov. Lujan Grisham’s desk for signature.
The climate bill is part of New Mexico’s broader effort to establish its own emissions and clean energy standards.
New Mexico was the fourth state to enact the Clean Transportation Fuel Standards and the Advanced Clean Car and Truck Rules, which sought to reduce pollution while driving new investment and creating job opportunities.