New Mexico Seeks Record $47.8M Fine for Excess Air Pollution by Natural Gas Processor

$47.8 Million Fine Proposed for New Mexico Gas Processing Plant

New Mexico regulators are cracking down on alleged air pollution violations at a natural gas processing facility, proposing a record-shattering $47.8 million fine against Houston-based Targa Resources.

The state Environment Department issued the sanctions, which include a cease and desist order, for the plant near Jal, citing permit violations and excessive emissions of harmful pollutants.

The targeted pollutants, known to contribute to respiratory issues and climate change, include those that generate ground-level ozone.

“Targa has 30 days to respond to the allegations and comply with the agency’s orders or request a hearing with the agency secretary,”

regulators stated, outlining the next steps in the process.

Along with the hefty fine, regulators have ordered a series of corrective actions and improvements to the gas processing facility. These upgrades are aimed at curbing emissions and bringing the plant into compliance with environmental regulations.

The proposed penalty, if upheld, would mark the largest air-pollution fine ever levied by the New Mexico Environment Department. The case has also been escalated to federal regulators, indicating the severity of the alleged violations.

Strengthening Air Quality Standards in a Key Energy Hub

This swift action comes amid a broader push by New Mexico to tighten air quality standards in a state renowned for its oil and gas production.

Just last month, the New Mexico Court of Appeals upheld regulations designed to curb air pollution emissions from the energy sector.

Democratic Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham’s administration has been aggressively advancing new restrictions on ozone-precursor pollutants, alongside regulations aimed at limiting methane emissions.

These initiatives reflect a strategic effort to combat climate change while ensuring compliance with federal clean air standards.

“We are committed to protecting the health of New Mexicans and the environment,” said Lujan Grisham’s administration. “These new regulations are essential steps towards creating a cleaner, more sustainable future for our state.”

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The state’s proactive approach to environmental enforcement underscores a commitment to balancing energy production with responsible environmental stewardship.

What potential health impacts‌ could⁤ the pollutants released by the Targa⁤ plant have on nearby ​residents?

## Interview: Record-Breaking Fine⁢ Proposed for New‌ Mexico Gas⁣ Plant

**Host:** Joining us‌ today is Sarah Johnson, an environmental advocate ‍with the New Mexico Coalition ​for Clean Air. Sarah, thanks for being here.

**Sarah:** ‌ It’s my pleasure

**Host:** New Mexico regulators just proposed ⁣a massive $47.8 million fine against Targa Resources ⁤for alleged air ⁣pollution violations at their gas processing plant near Jal. That’s⁤ a record-breaking amount. Can you tell us more about what⁢ happened?

**Sarah:** Certainly. According to the New Mexico Environment Department, Targa has ‍repeatedly violated its ⁣air pollution permits, releasing⁢ excessive amounts of harmful ‌pollutants. These pollutants, ⁢including those that ⁤contribute to ground-level ozone, are ⁣known to cause respiratory problems and exacerbate climate change. [[1](https://www.msn.com/en-ca/money/topstories/new-mexico-seeks-record-47-8m-fine-for-excess-air-pollution-by-natural-gas-processor/ar-AA1vpKjB)]

**Host:** This seems like a⁤ serious issue. What’s‌ the​ potential impact on the environment and the community near the plant?

**Sarah:** The potential impact is significant. These​ pollutants⁣ don’t just disappear; they harm air quality and contribute to‌ health problems for residents in the⁤ area. ⁣Elevated levels of ground-level ⁤ozone can trigger⁤ asthma attacks, ​cause breathing difficulties, and ​even ⁢lead⁣ to more serious ⁤respiratory illnesses.

**Host:** How is Targa responding to these allegations?

**Sarah:** ‍They have 30 days to respond to the Environment Department’s allegations​ and comply with the cease and desist order. We hope they take​ this situation⁤ seriously and implement measures to mitigate their pollution and protect public health.

**Host:** ⁣ This case seems to be sending a strong message about enforcement⁣ of environmental regulations. What are your thoughts on that?

**Sarah:** It’s a welcome sign that New Mexico is taking a‌ firm stance against polluters. This record-breaking fine demonstrates a commitment to protecting the environment and the health of its citizens. We hope this sets ​a‌ precedent ⁣for holding other polluters accountable.

**Host:**⁣ Sarah ⁤Johnson, thank you for sharing your insights with us⁤ today.

**Sarah:** ‍ You’re welcome.