New Mexico has vast potential and the oil and gas industry is doing our part to make our state stronger and better for the future generations. Unfortunately, there is a number of misrepresentations out there and we want to set the record straight.
What They're Saying:
"Oil and gas companies keep taking from taxpayers."
The Facts:
The oil and natural gas industry pays more in taxes than anyone else in New Mexico, supporting 134,000 total jobs, 1 of 7 public sector jobs, and more than one-third of the state budget.
Source: New Mexico Tax Research Institute
What They're Saying:
"We don't need any new [oil and gas] infrastructure. Our country has enough currently to meet our needs."
The Facts:
Additional infrastructure provides more capacity to capture gas and reduce truck traffic, which will reduce emissions and improve safety.
Source: 2019 ICF Study
What They're Saying:
“Fracking uses an excessive amount of water.”
The Facts:
Less than 1% of the state’s water consumption is for fracking operations.
Source: 2015 Duke University Study
What They're Saying:
“Fluids from fracking contaminate the groundwater.”
The Facts:
The EPA under President Obama found no instances in which groundwater was contaminated.
Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
What They're Saying:
“New Mexico could still be financially stable if we banned fracking.”
The Facts:
Banning fracking would have an immediate negative financial impact, reducing the amount of public funding for New Mexico's schools, highways, and public safety officers.
Source: New Mexico Tax Research Institute
What They're Saying:
“The oil and natural gas industry isn’t regulated enough.”
The Facts:
Oil and gas activities are heavily regulated with strict requirements and enforcement at the federal, state, and local levels.
Source: New Mexico Tax Research Institute