A. The secretary of economic development, in collaboration with the department, shall establish a hydrogen and fuel cell technologies development program for the purpose of fostering the development of hydrogen and fuel cell-related commercialization and economic development in the state. The program shall include:

(1) establishing a public-private partnership between the state, national laboratories, nonprofit organizations and the hydrogen and fuel cell technologies industry sector to provide guidance and support for hydrogen and fuel cell initiatives;

(2) supporting activities to adopt uniform hydrogen safety codes and standards and provide education and training to communicate these codes and standards to the appropriate fire and regulatory entities;

(3) developing demonstration projects by pursuing federal funds and other available funds to augment state resources, advancing public education about hydrogen and fuel cell technology and building the necessary infrastructure to support commercial use and adoption of hydrogen and fuel cell technologies; and

(4) coordinating and supporting research and education activities in hydrogen and fuel cells between state universities and federally funded research and development organizations in the state to promote closer cooperation and advance the state's overall capabilities and programs in hydrogen and fuel cell technologies.

B. The economic development department shall report on the status and progress of the hydrogen and fuel cell technologies development program to the legislative finance committee prior to each regular legislative session. The report shall include the type and amount of expenditures made pursuant to the appropriation in this section.

History: Laws 2004, ch. 55, § 7.

Effective dates. — Laws 2004, ch. 55 contains no effective date provision, but, pursuant to N.M. Const., art. IV, § 23, is effective May 19, 2004, 90 days after adjournment of the legislature.