PROTESTS FOR REPLACEMENT WELLS

HB 356 (New Mexico, 2025) removes the requirement for public protest when drilling replacement wells within 100 feet of an original well, provided the new well uses the same water source, same water amount, and an emergency justifies skipping standard review. Well owners must notify the state engineer before drilling and apply for a permit within 30 days. Adjacent water right holders can no longer block the well via injunction but may sue later for damages if harmed. The bill was referred to committees and later postponed indefinitely on June 3, 2025.