$47.8 million for air pollution on natural gas processor by New Mexico

SANTA FE, New Mexico: New Mexico environmental regulators have taken unprecedented action, proposing a record US$47.8 million fine against Houston-based Targa Resources for alleged excessive air pollution at its natural gas processing facility near Jal, New Mexico.

The facility operates in a key oil production region close to the Texas border.

The New Mexico Environment Department issued the fine along with a cease-and-desist order, accusing Targa of permit violations and excessive emissions of harmful gases, including ozone-producing pollutants that contribute to respiratory issues and climate change. The department also mandated corrective actions and facility improvements to address the violations.

Regulators allege Targa committed two permit violations, failed to report emissions on time, and provided an incomplete root cause analysis of the pollution. Targa has 30 days to respond to the sanctions, comply, or request a hearing.

If upheld, the $47.8 million fine would be the largest ever imposed by the state's Environment Department. The case has also been referred to federal regulators for further scrutiny.

Representatives for Targa were not immediately available for comment.

The move comes as New Mexico intensifies its efforts to combat air pollution and climate change under Democratic Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham's administration. Recent regulations aim to curb ozone-precursor pollutants and limit methane emissions in one of the nation's top oil- and gas-producing states.

Last month, the New Mexico Court of Appeals upheld key air pollution regulations, signaling strong judicial support for the state's environmental initiatives.

"The proposed fine reflects our commitment to holding polluters accountable and protecting public health," state officials emphasized.

This landmark case underscores the growing tension between energy production and environmental protection in regions like New Mexico, where oil and gas play a significant economic role. The outcome could set a precedent for how air quality violations are handled in resource-rich states.