Re: July 29 editorial.
Your editorial correctly cites the Colorado Mining Association’s longstanding support of efforts to incentivize clean-ups of abandoned mines through Good Samaritan legislation. Industry is already partnering with conservation interests on mine remediation efforts throughout Colorado and the West. Our companies have won numerous awards for outstanding environmental practices. While more is needed, it is clear that the industry and its expertise must become a part of the solution.
The editorial, however, mischaracterizes the mining industry’s position on reforming the mining laws. Industry has long supported reasonable reform that does not saddle modern mining companies — which already operate under the most robust environmental and safety standards — with prohibitions and unreasonable costs designed to stop mining in the United States. To be clear and set the record straight, industry has supported legislation which included royalties on mineral production.
Stuart A. Sanderson, Denver
Stan Dempsey Jr., Denver
Stuart A. Sanderson is president of the Colorado Mining Association. Stan Dempsey Jr. is the organization’s president-elect.
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