Assembly Republicans plan to introduce a bill next week that would streamline restrictions on mining in Wisconsin with the goal to jump-start mining operations.
Mining companies throughout the state say changes need to be made to the regulatory process before they begin operations.
Gogebic Taconite, one of the companies that want changes, wants to build a $1.5 billion iron ore mine in Northern Wisconsin. It said the mine would generate hundreds of jobs in the area.
the Bad River band, a American Indian group whose reservation lies just north of the proposed site, is worried about the environmental effects the mine would have.
Assembly Speaker Jeff Fitzgerald, R-Horicon, declined to elaborate on details of the bill until next week’s press conference.
