RHINELANDER, WI (WSAU) — Governor Scott Walker will be in Rhinelander on Monday to signs a bill rolling back some mining regulation that he helped put in place back in 1998.
The “Mine for America” bill helps relieve companies of some burdens related to sulfide mining. Previously, anyone wanting to open a mine in Wisconsin needed to prove that a similar mine had operated in America without negative environmental impact for at least 20 years- 10 while active and ten after the mine closed.
Several central Wisconsin mayors- including those in Stevens Point and Wausau, expressed concerns over the bill’s impact while it was being considered. Walker himself voted for the than-called “Prove it” measure as a state senator back in 1998, however now says he believes that such mines can operate in an environmentally friendly capacity.
Many felt the original legislation put a moratorium on new mines in the state.
Monday’s signing will take place at the Rhinelander-Onida County Airport.
Walker will also hold a bill signing for “Dillon’s Law” at Mishicot High School. That measure helps open up access to lifesaving Epi-Pens for those experiencing a life-threatening allergic reaction by allowing trained businesses or individuals to administer the medication to anyone who needs it.
The law is named after Dillion Mueller who died after being stung by a bee.
