The introduction of the Assembly's mining bill confirms that this bill has always been about mining companies and not about what's best for Wisconsin.
Holding the public hearing in Milwaukee made it difficult for those who would be affected most by the proposed iron mine in northern Wisconsin to voice their opinions. If this bill became law, it would be even harder for citizens to present their concerns about any proposed mines. And we should be concerned about weakening environmental protections that regulate mining. Protecting the health of the environment means protecting our health, such as by preventing toxic chemicals from large-scale mining operations from entering our drinking water. Creating jobs must be balanced with preserving our land.
Before pushing this new legislation through, everyone needs the proper chance to voice their concerns. Then, our legislators should listen to these concerns and put the long-term benefits of protecting Wisconsin's pristine landscapes ahead of the short-term benefits an out-of-state mining company claims to provide.
Holding the public hearing in Milwaukee made it difficult for those who would be affected most by the proposed iron mine in northern Wisconsin to voice their opinions. If this bill became law, it would be even harder for citizens to present their concerns about any proposed mines. And we should be concerned about weakening environmental protections that regulate mining. Protecting the health of the environment means protecting our health, such as by preventing toxic chemicals from large-scale mining operations from entering our drinking water. Creating jobs must be balanced with preserving our land.
Before pushing this new legislation through, everyone needs the proper chance to voice their concerns. Then, our legislators should listen to these concerns and put the long-term benefits of protecting Wisconsin's pristine landscapes ahead of the short-term benefits an out-of-state mining company claims to provide.
