The Senate approved bipartisan legislation Wednesday meant to help accelerate the cleanup of thousands of abandoned hardrock mines around the country.
The chamber cleared an amended version of S. 2781— championed by Sens. Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Jim Risch (R-Idaho) — by voice vote. It passed the Environment and Public Works Committee in January.
The legislation is meant to protect groups from liability when stepping in to clean up abandoned mine pollution and other hazards. Similar legislation has been under consideration for years.
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Sponsors hope a limited pilot program will help assuage concerns. Some Democrats and environmental groups worry about leaving the industry off the hook for cleanups.
