The House Energy, Environment and Natural Resources Committee convened on March 8, 2025, to discuss a significant bill concerning the state's energy future. The meeting began with a call for public input, allowing attendees to express their support or opposition to the proposed legislation.

The chair initiated the public comment segment by asking for a show of hands to gauge support for the bill, which was met with a substantial number of affirmative responses. Conversely, a smaller group indicated opposition. Following the established practice, the committee allowed three speakers from each side to present their views, starting with those opposed to the bill.

Jim Winchester, representing the Independent Petroleum Association of New Mexico, voiced strong opposition on behalf of several industry groups, including the Permian Basin Petroleum Association and the New Mexico Oil and Gas Association. He highlighted concerns regarding the bill's financial implications, noting that it proposes a $340 million budget while simultaneously imposing a potential $500 million tax increase on the oil and gas sector. Winchester argued that this approach could harm the very communities the bill aims to assist, especially given the current downturn in oil prices and the industry's efforts to adapt to economic pressures.

The committee then opened the floor for additional opposition comments, but no further speakers from the audience stepped forward. The chair subsequently invited supporters of the bill to present their perspectives, emphasizing the importance of hearing from both sides in the ongoing discussion.

As the meeting progressed, the committee maintained a structured approach to ensure all voices were heard, reflecting the contentious nature of the proposed legislation and its potential impact on New Mexico's energy landscape. The session concluded with a commitment to continue deliberations, underscoring the complexity of balancing economic interests with environmental goals.