A mining bill was unveiled today at a State Capitol news conference.  It would streamline Wisconsin’s mine permitting process and was written specifically for an out-of-state mining company that wants to build an open pit iron mine in Northern Wisconsin. 

 

Today was the first time the public and many lawmakers, including me, have had an opportunity to see the bill.  It is 183 pages long and very technical.  We all need some time to carefully analyze the details and get the facts.  Decisions on a proposal of this magnitude need to be based on sound science through a collaborative, thoughtful and open process.

 

I am troubled at the onset by the process that’s being used so far to move the mining bill through the Legislature.  Instead of being referred to the Natural Resources Committee, which would be the most appropriate venue, the bill is being considered by the Jobs Committee, which does not deal with technical environmental issues on a regular basis.  Second, the public hearing on the mining bill is being held in just a few days during daytime working hours at State Fair Park—over 300 miles away from where the proposed mine is sited.  This arrangement denies Wisconsin citizens, especially those most directly impacted by the bill, a legitimate opportunity to fully participate in the process.