“We are pleased that Senator Bingaman has begun the process of engaging the Senate in reforming the Mining Act of 1872 by introducing S.796 and holding this hearing today.  TCS looks forward to working with Congress to move forward legislation that will protect taxpayers by instituting a fair royalty of at least 8%; permanently end the practice of patenting; and ensure  mining companies are responsible for cleaning up their toxic wastes that may be left behind.  Public lands are taxpayer assets, and should be managed in a way that preserves their value, ensures a fair return from private interests using them for profit and avoids future liability.”

For more information, please contact Autumn Hanna at (202) 546-8500 x112 or autumn [at] taxpayer.net.