Introduced
by
To authorize and provide regulations for a new copper, nickel and other mineral mine in Marquette County. The bill would include extensive disclosure, oversight, public input, and land reclamation provisions. At least two companies have discovered large deposits of nickel, copper and other useful minerals which are bound up in rock formations containing sulfur in the Upper Peninsula. The sulfide mining process to separate them requires careful precautions to avoid water pollution. The bill would require mining companies to post performance bonds, and to monitor the sites for at least 20 years after the mine is closed. It would require permits to be issued if it is determined that a proposed mining operation will not pollute, impair, or destroy the air, water, or other natural resources.
Referred to the Committee on Agriculture and Resource Management
Reported without amendment
With the recommendation that the substitute (H-1) be adopted and that the bill then pass.
Substitute offered
To replace the previous version of the bill with one that incorporates detail changes resulting from committee deliberation and further negotiation among interested parties.
The substitute passed by voice vote
Amendment offered
by
To postpone the promulgation of rules for sulfide mining until one year after the bill goes into effect.
The amendment passed by voice vote
Passed in the House 108 to 0 (details)
Referred to the Committee on Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs
Reported without amendment
With the recommendation that the substitute (S-1) be adopted and that the bill then pass.
Substitute offered
To replace the previous version of the bill with one that would give local governments greater authority over mine operating hours, truck routes, and water quality issues.
The substitute passed by voice vote
Amendment offered
by
To clearly establish that the regulation authorized by the bill do not apply to existing iron mines.
The amendment passed by voice vote
Amendment offered
by
To revise details in the application of criminal penalties proposed by the bill.
The amendment passed by voice vote
Passed in the Senate 37 to 0 (details)
To authorize and provide regulations for a new copper, nickel and other mineral mine in Marquette County. The bill would include extensive disclosure, oversight, public input, and land reclamation provisions. At least two companies have discovered large deposits of nickel, copper and other useful minerals which are bound up in rock formations containing sulfur in the Upper Peninsula. The sulfide mining process to separate them requires careful precautions to avoid water pollution. The bill would require mining companies to post performance bonds, and to monitor the sites for at least 20 years after the mine is closed. It would require permits to be issued if it is determined that a proposed mining operation will not pollute, impair, or destroy the air, water, or other natural resources.
To concur with the Senate-passed version of the bill.
Passed in the House 98 to 0 (details)
