ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — New Mexico environmental regulators say they're marching ahead despite a recent decision by U.S. officials to waive enforcement on a range of legally mandated federal public health and environmental protections.
Food inspections are ongoing in New Mexico as is the tracking of methane emissions and other critical work related to drinking water protections and worker safety.
Officials say about 25% of the New Mexico Environment Department's staff is focusing on COVID-19 related critical services. The rest are working on permitting actions and compliance activities.
New Mexico has more than 620 cases of the virus. At least a dozen people have died in the state.