Anti-Mining State Ballot Measure Moves Forward

A proposed state ballot measure restricting or outright banning certain types of mining takes a step forward in Lansing.

A state election board approved a petition form late yesterday that the Michigan Save Our Water Committee submitted.

That means the group needs 300,000 signatures to put the issue on the November 2010 ballot.

According to the petition language, it would prohibit uranium mining and processing until new rules are created to protect against associated risks.

Sulfide and other types of mines would be required to stay at least 2,000 feet away from any body of water unless it’s proven that the mine operation wouldn’t harm the water.

Some environmental groups have already come out in support of the bill.

Opponents worry about the effects the measure would have on the mining industry and the state’s economy in general.

We’ll have more on that coming up tomorrow on UGN News.