By Hannah Grover
The New Mexico Oil Conservation Commission plans to deliberate March 11 on a petition to ban the use of PFAS chemicals in down-hole oil and gas operations such as fracking.
The commission set the date during its Thursday meeting.
The panel heard arguments in the case during a week-long hearing in November 2024.
While oil and gas industry groups say PFAS chemicals are no longer used in oil and gas operations in New Mexico, advocacy groups led by WildEarth Guardians want to ensure that really is the case.
PFAS have gained increased attention in recent years as members of the public become more aware of the potential dangers surrounding those chemicals.
There are more than 10,000 types of PFAS chemicals.
A 2021 report produced by Physicians for Social Responsibility documented the use of PFAS chemicals in fracking operations in New Mexico.
WildEarth Guardians has also petitioned the Oil Conservation Commission to require increased disclosure of the chemicals used in fracking operations, some of which are considered trade secrets.
As a NM property owner, born and raised in Albuquerque, NM, and a retired Enforcement Officer for U.S.EPA Region 9 Superfund Division, I strongly support additional research, reporting and regulation of the use and release of PFAs and other regulatory requirements governing release and use of regulated and hazardous chemicals into our natural environments.