Mining bill goes before JFC

Lawmakers at the Capitol are talking about the proposed mining bill today.

Opponents of the move to streamline the permitting process worry about the environmental impact on streams and wetlands.

While the DNR isn't taking a position on the bill, agency officials are answering technical questions from lawmakers.

Ann Coakley is the director of waste and materials management. She says there are a number of proposed changes to the bill, but one thing is clear -- the DNR will have the final say over whether to approve or deny a mining permit.

Coakley says if a business can't prove to the DNR that it won't significantly impact waterways, downstream from a mine, the project won't get a permit. She says opinions about the proposals vary, and it's all in the eye of the beholder.

Coakley says some people value our stringent wetland, groundwater and surface water protections, and some of those would be relaxed under the proposal. But she says the DNR will continue to provide a lot of oversight.

The Legislature's joint finance committee is taking up the bill today.