The proposed bill mandates that the Department of Environment and local agencies conduct inspections of all existing sources owned or operated by permit applicants prior to issuing any operating or construction permits for new or modified sources. A new periodic inspection program is established, set to commence in 2025, which will utilize advanced technology for compliance verification. The bill also stipulates an increase in permitting fees to fund this inspection program and requires the Department to report to the legislature in 2026 and 2027 on the program's progress.

Key amendments include a requirement for permit applicants to provide certified proof of compliance with state and federal emission standards for all their facilities. If such proof is not provided, inspections must be conducted within six months of the application submission. The bill specifies that non-compliance will result in the denial of the permit application for new sources. Additionally, a new section, 74-2-13 NMSA 1978, is introduced, mandating biennial inspections without prior notice and requiring the Department to notify inspected parties of results within thirty days. The bill aims to enhance oversight and ensure compliance with environmental standards, particularly regarding methane emissions.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 74-2-7, 74-2-13