Michigan Senate Resolution in Favor of Mining Development, Passed April 28, 2021

Senator Ed McBroom offered the following resolution:
A resolution to express support for mining and the mining industry and encourage the Governor, state agencies, local governments, members of the public, and labor organizations to support mining by taking certain actions.
Whereas, Mining provides the raw materials needed to build and manufacture the necessities and conveniences of our society. Nearly every industry and consumer product relies on the materials produced from mining, whether the cars we drive, the roads we drive on, the homes we live in, or the electrical system we rely on; and
Whereas, Michigan is blessed with an abundance of valuable mineral resources. Our state's long and diverse geologic history has produced a wide variety of minerals, notably copper, iron, nickel, salt, sand, gravel, and limestone; and
Whereas, Mining has played an integral role in Michigan's history and growth. More native copper ore was mined in Michigan's Keweenaw Peninsula from 1845 to 1887 than any other place in North America, and for many years, Michigan produced more than one-half of the nation's supply of copper. In 1844, rich iron ore deposits were discovered in the Upper Peninsula, and from the 1850s to the early 1900s, Michigan was the nation's leader in iron ore production. From 1880 to 1926, Michigan also ranked first or second in the nation in salt production. Michigan's mining industry was a major driver of Michigan's early economy and growth and attracted immigrants from around the world; and
Whereas, Men and women throughout the Upper Peninsula and other areas of Michigan are proud of their family history as the hard-working workforce for Michigan's mines. Through an honest day's work, mining provided an opportunity for a good life and a better future for generations. It is an inextricable part of the culture and heritage of the Upper Peninsula; and
Whereas, Mining continues to be an important piece of Michigan's economy and economic future. Within the United States, Michigan remains a leading producer of gravel, sand, limestone, cement, salt, nickel, and iron ore. Mineral resources in the Upper Peninsula, including gold, silver, and zinc, are attracting new interest from a number of national and international companies. An able-bodied workforce is ready and willing to renew the proud heritage of mining in Michigan; and
Whereas, The transition towards renewable energy and transport systems that are protective of the environment requires a complex mix of metals, such as copper, nickel, silver, cobalt, rare earths, and lithium. The responsible mining of these metals is fundamental to the sustainability of the renewable energy transition. Demand for these metals is expected to increase dramatically, and Michigan is well-positioned to help meet this enduring demand; and
Whereas, Modern-day mining can provide the raw materials we need while limiting impacts on the environment and communities. The state of Michigan has adopted strong laws that protect the environment but still allow for a vibrant mining industry. In 2004, Governor Jennifer Granholm stated regarding new laws on nonferrous metallic mineral mining, "These new regulations give us some of the toughest, if not the toughest, mining regulations in the country. They ensure the economic development potential of mining in our state, while being mindful of protecting our environment." Environmental regulations and community expectations ensure that today's mining is carried out safely and responsibly in co-existence with the environment so local communities, families, and institutions can prosper and grow; and
Whereas, There is an inherent contradiction when people oppose mining in our state for environmental reasons but wish to continue to reap the benefits of mined materials. Whether the everyday products and services that utilize mined materials or the transition to new technologies dependent on the materials produced from mining, it is morally wrong to demand and enjoy the rewards of mining but expect any impacts — no matter how well regulated and mitigated — to be borne by others; and
Whereas, Mining supports local communities and people, often in areas that are in dire need of economic opportunity. Mining companies investing in Michigan create well-paying jobs and give back to their communities. The taxes generated from these companies, through the Rural Development Fund, support local schools, roads, and other critical services and infrastructure; and
Whereas, The state of Michigan needs to continue to build a strong, diverse, and resilient economy across all regions of the state. A robust mining industry remains an essential part of that goal, providing jobs, attracting investments, generating tax revenue for state and local economies, and helping ensure opportunity and a bright future for all Michiganders; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Senate, That we express support for mining and the mining industry in Michigan and encourage members of the public and labor organizations to present well-informed support for mining projects to state and local regulators; and be it further
Resolved, That we encourage the Governor, state agencies, and local governments to support mining by welcoming new opportunities to expand mining in Michigan, utilizing our robust laws to protect the environment and allow mining projects to move forward, and working with investors to develop needed infrastructure; and be it further
Resolved, That copies of this resolution be delivered to the Governor of Michigan, the Michigan Association of Counties, the Michigan Townships Association, and the Michigan Municipal League.

the Resolution can be viewed from its source here: https://www.legislature.mi.gov/documents/2021-2022/resolutionadopted/Senate/htm/2021-SAR-0016.htm.

Ed McBroom
State Senator – 38th District

The 38th Senate District includes Alger, Baraga, Delta, Dickinson, Gogebic, Houghton, Iron, Keweenaw, Marquette, Menominee, Ontonagon, and Schoolcraft counties.

State Sen. Ed McBroom serves the Upper Peninsula’s 38th Senate District and is Caucus Dean.

Mr. McBroom chairs the Senate Natural Resources and Oversight committees.

Mr. McBroom is a fourth-generation dairy farmer, and operates his family’s 100-year-old farm, which in addition to raising Holsteins, also grows corn, wheat, and hay. He previously served a full three terms in the state House of Representatives from 2011-2016.