The Clean Future Act Passes First Committee

Santa Fe, NM- HB 6, the Clean Future Act, which would create requirements and target dates for New Mexico to lower greenhouse gas emissions and reach the state’s ambitious goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050, passed the Energy, Environment & Natural Resources Committee today by a vote of 5 to 4.  

Achieving net-zero would effectively offset New Mexico’s atmospheric carbon that causes climate change by safely storing harmful greenhouse gases and phasing out their use. It would also pave the way toward a healthier environment and a stronger, more sustainable economy.

“The Clean Future Act will combat climate change and propel New Mexico toward a low-carbon, job-creating economy,” said Representative Nathan Small (D-Las Cruces). “Reaching our goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions will drastically reduce our climate impact while growing New Mexico’s economy and safeguarding our environment.”  

By 2030, statewide greenhouse gas emissions would be reduced to 50% of 2005 levels and net-zero by 2050. Beyond 2050, emissions would be capped at 10% of 2005 levels, which would be net-zero going forward. 

“The people of New Mexico are already feeling the impacts of climate change and they are counting on us to act right away,” Speaker Brian Egolf (D-Santa Fe). “With this legislation we can make significant progress in reducing our emissions and begin to reverse the damage that has already been done.” 

The Clean Future Act would set reporting requirements for businesses and state entities to monitor the progress to net-zero emissions. State agencies would be required to continually explore ways to reduce carbon emissions and annually report on their climate impacts to disproportionately impacted communities. 

HB 6 is sponsored by Representative Small and Speaker Egolf and Representatives D. Wonda Johnson (D-Church Rock) and Kristina Ortez (D-Taos), along with Senate President Pro Tempore Mimi Stewart (D-Albuquerque), and Senator Siah Correa Hemphill (D-Silver City). It is also a legislative priority of Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham. 

The Roundhouse is open to the public for the session. Proof of full COVID-19 vaccination will be required to enter the building. Members of the public can view floor sessions and committee meetings on the New Mexico legislature’s Webcasts tab, and provide comment via phone or Zoom as directed on the daily schedule.  

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