New Mexicans are facing some potentially big changes when it comes to the state’s electrical utility, thanks to a proposed merger between PNM Resources and Avangrid, the U.S. subsidiary of a Spanish power company, Iberdrola.

If the merger goes through, Avangrid would buy PNM Resources, which includes Public Service Company of New Mexico and Texas-New Mexico Power. According to the Santa Fe New Mexican: “The proposed merger is an $8.3 billion deal with a total of $4.3 billion going to shareholders and Avangrid paying off $4 billion in PNM debt.”

How the merger might play out in New Mexico—and what the consequences might be—remains to be seen. But the company has been operating in Maine for more than a decade, and not without controversy. Environment reporter Laura Paskus talks with Bangor Daily News reporter Caitlin Andrews to learn more about Avangrid and Central Maine Power.

The Line Opinion Panel reacts to a push at the Capitol to allow retired police officers back on the force, while still collecting pension benefits. Our panelists share their concerns with such a plan, like the potential impact on younger officers. Plus, what impact possible incentives could have to make this a feasible solution to help departments struggling to fill open positions.

Line Opinion Panelists:

Rebecca Latham, CEO, Girl Scouts of NM

Eric Griego, former state senator

Tom Garrity, The Garrity Group

Guests:

Caitlin Andrews, reporter, Bangor Daily News

John Waconda, Indigenous Partnerships Program Director, Nature Conservancy