SANTA FE – Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham on Thursday issued the following statement regarding the Trump administration’s proposal to remove limits on methane emissions:

“The Trump administration continues to look backward on climate. This rule change is only the latest in a series of harmful federal initiatives that will weaken protections for our air, water and land. New Mexicans recognize the sanctity of our environment and understand certain responsible safeguards can co-exist with industry. Our administration is leading by example through our collaboration with stakeholders – the oil and gas industry alongside environmental groups – to develop an enforceable methane mitigation framework that will both protect New Mexicans and recoup wasted revenue for the state’s bottom line. We’re well on our way to finding the balance that protects vital economic interests while significantly addressing the harmful impacts of methane on our public health and our environment – and I regret that the current federal administration is not interested in securing such protections.”