OPINION: It's time to act on SB4 for our climate and economy

Growing up in New Mexico, the land was our playground and sanctuary. My brothers and I spent countless days exploring our state’s vast landscapes, where we felt a deep sense of freedom and connection. Yet, each year, we increasingly notice the undeniable changes: unreliable monsoon rains, dangerous summer heat and more intense and earlier forest fires that transform natural renewal into devastating destruction.

These changes are symptoms of a broader crisis impacting not just our environment but our livelihoods and communities. New Mexico’s legislative efforts to mitigate these issues often feel like mere stopgaps, addressing symptoms rather than the cause. For instance, while it’s practical to clear vegetation around homes or update fire prevention boards, these measures barely scratch the surface of the underlying issue: The climate crisis is wreaking havoc, driving up our insurance rates and threatening our homes and safety.

Water scarcity further illustrates the dire situation. Key agricultural products like pecans and chiles rely heavily on our shrinking water supplies. With over 60% of our state in drought, the ripple effects on agriculture and local economies are profound, exacerbated by global climate change.

Despite having the technology and knowledge to significantly reduce their emissions, major oil and gas companies continue to prioritize profits over community well-being. Firms like ExxonMobil and Chevron spend vast sums to downplay the impact of their emissions reductions, all while posting record profits. It’s disheartening to see entities like the Hispano Chamber of Commerce echo the narratives of these polluters, rather than advocating for the local businesses striving to ensure a resilient future for New Mexico.

These corporations could easily afford to cut emissions without harming their bottom line. Their threats to leave or claims that our economy depends solely on them ignore the reality: The oil is here, and our state has wisely invested in funds to stabilize our economy beyond the boom-and-bust cycles of resource extraction.

It’s clear that the influence of big oil is pervasive. For decades, companies like Exxon have been aware of their role in the climate crisis but have chosen to obfuscate and deny rather than act. Even as they pledge to address climate issues on a global scale, they actively undermine local progress.

The call for change has never been more urgent. As the climate crisis intensifies, the consequences become increasingly severe, touching every aspect of our lives — from health to economic stability. The Clear Horizons Act (SB4) offers a comprehensive plan that not only addresses immediate environmental challenges but also sets the foundation for sustainable growth and development. By transitioning to cleaner energy sources and reducing reliance on fossil fuels, SB4 paves the way for a healthier, more sustainable New Mexico.

It’s time for decisive action. The Senate Finance Committee must advance the SB4, moving beyond mere tabled discussions to implement robust climate action. If we fail to act, the cost will be borne not by these corporations, but by our families, our small businesses, and our children.

The passage of SB4 represents more than environmental policy; it’s about securing a viable, prosperous future for all New Mexicans. We owe it to our communities and future generations to demand that our legislators rise to this challenge and ensure SB4 becomes a catalyst for real, lasting change in our state.