SENATE JOINT MEMORIAL 26

51st legislature - STATE OF NEW MEXICO - first session, 2013

INTRODUCED BY

John M. Sapien

A JOINT MEMORIAL

REQUESTING THE ENERGY, MINERALS AND NATURAL RESOURCES DEPARTMENT TO CONDUCT A STUDY OF THE POTENTIAL EXPORT OF COAL FROM NEW MEXICO.

     WHEREAS, New Mexico and Navajo Nation coal mining and production face an uncertain future; and

     WHEREAS, Four Corners power generation plants are planning to phase out coal production units; and

     WHEREAS, coal, as a valuable energy mineral, supports the regional economy and jobs; and

     WHEREAS, these conditions call for New Mexico to initiate research and a study to explore a coal export option; and

     WHEREAS, stranded coal and unemployment among New Mexicans and members of the Navajo Nation might be averted;

     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO that the energy, minerals and natural resources department be requested to study the export options of Four Corners coal to Asia, where a market exists, including the rail transport feasibility of coal through the ports of Texas via the Panama canal, Mexico via its Pacific ocean ports and the west coast of the United States; and

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the study include infrastructure investment estimates and an assessment of private and public requirements and support capabilities; and

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this memorial be transmitted to the secretary of energy, minerals and natural resources.

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