IPANM (October 8, 2024) – The Independent Petroleum Association of New Mexico (IPANM) offers our sincere condolences on the loss of New Mexico State Senator John Arthur Smith, former Chair of the Legislative Finance Committee.

In reaction to the sad news, IPANM Executive Director Jim Winchester released the following statement:

“Senator John Arthur Smith will be remembered as one of the most respected legislators in the history of the New Mexico state legislature. He never flinched to give effusive praise and credit to New Mexico’s independent producers as the backbone of the oil & gas industry, and he fought tirelessly to defend the industry against frivolous legislation that would have disproportionately hurt our member companies.

As much as he will forever be respected for his political savvy, he was an even better individual of integrity who was generous with his time with not only our members, but anyone who walked into his office in Santa Fe.”

Several local publications have reported on the passing, including in today’s Albuquerque Journal.