2007 Press Releases

Statement of Stephen D'Esposito, president of EARTHWORKS, on the passage of HR 2262

Statement of Stephen D'Esposito, president of EARTHWORKS, on the passage of HR 2262,
the Hardock Mining and Reclamation Act of 2007

November 1st, Washington, D.C. -- "Today the U.S. Congress takes an important step towards updating one of the last remaining laws that gives away our public lands and minerals. The House voted 244 to 166 to modernize a law that is long past due for reform  the 1872 Mining Law. Although the law was passed before women could vote and long before the advent of national environmental laws, it still governs mining for precious minerals  such as gold, copper and uranium  on public lands.

The Hardrock Mining and Reclamation Act of 2007, HR 2262, strives to ensure that mining on public lands takes place in a manner that protects crucial drinking water supplies and other natural resources, special places, taxpayers, fish and wildlife habitat, and the health and well being of our communities. Id like to thank Chairmen Rahall and Costa for their commitment and leadership on this issue.

If this effort to reform the 1872 Mining Law is to succeed, leadership from the mining industry itself and from community and political leaders in western states is needed. Each of these states - from Washington to New Mexico - have been, and continue to be, adversely affected by this antiquated law and its lack of adequate protections for taxpayers and the environment.

EARTHWORKS looks forward to working with the mining industry leaders and Western Senators to craft a Senate bill that promotes beneficial environmental practices, balanced public land use policy and a fair return to taxpayers."

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For more information about the 1872 Mining Law and the effort to reform it, please contact Lauren Pagel, Policy Director, EARTHWORKS at 202-887-1872x207. Or visit www.miningreform.org