Raúl Grijalva: “For too long, my friends on the other side of the aisle denied that this was even a real issue.”

Mining is considered the highest and best use of our public lands.

Effective democratic governance depends upon informed public participation, and several international conventions and policy guidelines call for enhanced public participation in environmental management.

A few weeks ago, I sought medical treatment for a persistent cough which was initially diagnosed as pneumonia. After further testing and imaging, my physician discovered that I have cancer.

We write to express serious concerns about the Mining Clarity Regulatory Act, which represents an unprecedented, de facto giveaway of America's cherished public lands to mining corporations.