Senate Bill 623 introduces a new provision regarding the issuance of permits for the mining of sulfide ore bodies in Wisconsin. The bill amends existing law by adding a new section, 293.50, which establishes a moratorium on the issuance of such permits until specific conditions are met. These conditions require the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to determine that a mining operation has successfully operated in a similar sulfide ore body in the United States or Canada for at least 10 years without polluting groundwater or surface water. Additionally, the DNR must confirm that a similar mining operation has been closed for at least 10 years without causing pollution.

The bill also amends section 293.49 (1) (a) (intro.) to reference the new section 293.50, indicating that the DNR's ability to issue mining permits is contingent upon the fulfillment of the outlined conditions for sulfide ore bodies. This legislative change aims to enhance environmental protections by ensuring that mining operations do not adversely affect water quality before permits are granted.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 293.49(1)(a)(intro.), 293.49