Indoor Mask Mandate Ends, Pastoral Letter Calls For Nuclear Disarmament & PNM Plan to Avoid Blackouts | 2.25.22

New Mexico in Focus (A Production of NMPBS)

The Line Opinion Panel reacts to Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham’s decision to end the statewide indoor mask mandate. State Health Secretary Dr. David Scrase cites a significant drop in cases, hospitalizations and deaths from COVID-19. Panelists try to understand the rationale and discuss the burden school districts must now carry.

Correspondent Megan Kamerick speaks with the Archbishop of Santa Fe about his recent pastoral letter, calling for international nuclear disarmament. Archbishop John C. Wester explains his stance, while noting the presence of two federal nuclear weapons laboratories here in New Mexico.

New Mexico’s largest electrical utility is going to keep part of a coal-fired power plant in San Juan open a bit longer than planned. The company says it’s necessary to avoid rolling blackouts during the hottest summer months. The Line Opinion Panel unpacks what this seemingly minor setback could mean for the state’s long-term transition to renewable energy sources.

Correspondents:

Gene Grant

Megan Kamerick

Line Opinion Panelists:

Tom Garrity, Garrity Group public relations

Cathryn McGill, founder and director, NM Black Leadership Council

TJ Trout, radio host, KKOB

Guest:

Archbishop John C. Wester, Archdiocese of Santa Fe

For More Information:

New Mexico Indoor Mask Mandate Lifted – Governor's Office

NM DOH Public Health Order – NM Department of Health

How Do People Feel After New Mexico Lifts Indoor Mask Mandate - KOAT

San Juan Extension to Avoid Blackouts – Albuquerque Journal

PNM Press Release

Santa Fe’s Archbishop Wester Urges Nuclear Disarmament in New Pastoral Letter – National Catholic Reporter

Living in the Light of Christ's Peace: A Conversation Toward Nuclear Disarmament - Archdiocese of Santa Fe

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