The proposed bill mandates that the Department of Environment and local agencies conduct inspections on existing sources owned or operated by permit applicants prior to issuing operating or construction permits for new or modified sources. It establishes a periodic inspection program set to commence in 2025, utilizing advanced technology for compliance verification. The bill also requires an increase in permitting fees to support this inspection program and mandates that the Department report to the legislature in 2026 and 2027 on the program's progress and outcomes.

Key amendments to Section 74-2-7 NMSA 1978 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, establishes a periodic inspection program for sources under the Air Quality Control Act and the Oil and Gas Act, requiring inspections every two years without prior notice. The results of these inspections must be communicated to the inspected parties within thirty days, and the Department is tasked with reporting on the program's effectiveness to the legislature.

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