Bill > SB334

This bill amends the New Mexico Mining Act to require the Director of the Mining and Minerals Division to consider the effect on the environment and public health before issuing a permit for a new mining operation. Specifically, the bill adds a provision stating that the Director shall issue a permit only if the mining operation will not result in a hazard to public health, a threat to the state's water resources or wildlife, or an undue risk to property or have a disproportionate effect on the health, environment, or economy of a particular socioeconomic group. The bill also removes references to "regulations" and replaces them with "rules" to align with the language used in the existing law. The effective date of the bill is July 1, 2021.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nmlegis.gov/lcs/legislation.aspx?chamber=S&legtype=B&legno=334&year=21