From the Band:

Last year, the Wisconsin Senate began preparations to take up the issue of mining by creating a new committee – the Mining Jobs Committee – composed of Senators who have a long history and commitment to the issue of natural resources.  After the Wisconsin Assembly passed AB 426, legislation that is widely known to be written by an out-of-state company for the purpose of easing environmental regulations and eliminating provisions that allow citizens to participate in the permitting process, the Senate Mining Jobs Committee introduced a bill that moderated a few of AB 426’s provisions.  In a surprise move this week, on Wednesday, the Mining Jobs Committee was dissolved, and it was announced that the Assembly bill would be introduced into the Joint Finance Committee instead.  The Bad River Band and other Wisconsin Tribes have come out strongly against the legislation.  Wisconsin Indian Tribes have sent representatives to the Joint Finance Committee hearing in Madison.  You can watch today’s proceedings here http://www.wiseye.org/.

Here is their press release:

Bad River Media Release on Senatemining bill actions 2-17-12

Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission Testimony:

AB 426 LRB 4045 joint finance testimony 16feb12