Sam Gibbons: “last Tuesday, the Nevada Mining Association and two government agencies began closing the final 8 of 13 abandoned mine…”

“last Tuesday, the Nevada Mining Association and two government agencies began closing the final 8 of 13 abandoned mine sites in Clark County, Nevada. Six private mining companies are picking up 100 percent of the cost of making these abandoned shafts and caverns inaccessible and safe. The first five abandoned mines were backfilled 2 weeks ago, and these efforts show the willingness and the capability of our Nation's mining companies to work with the Federal and State governments to protect the public from any danger proposed by abandoned mines. Mr. Speaker, our mining companies are dedicated to working with the government to protect the environment. We should encourage these efforts and support the mining industry in the United States. By supporting our mining industry, we will ensure that all Americans can maintain the quality of life style to which they have become accustomed, including advancements in medical research technology and communications. Mr. Speaker, mining impacts our lives every day and in every way. And as the old saying goes, "If it can't be grown, it has to be mined."”