House passes bill amending mining regulations
The House on Wednesday voted to amend the state's mining regulations, adding new water quality standards to the regulations updated last year to help development of a copper-zinc mine on Aroostook County's Bald Mountain.
The Kennebec Journal reported the bill would require independent analysis of cleanup costs and that water treatment measures be done within 10 years of a mine's closure. The bill would also require an operator to put up money sufficient to provide for cleanup after closure and to provide information about jobs for which it plans to hire.
The paper reported supporters said the amendment will help to protect water quality and cut the potential for a costly cleanup later. Opponents said the new rules are too stringent and could hamper job opportunities in Aroostook County.
The bill passed the House 91-49 and faces additional votes in both chambers.
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