Tom Emmer: “I thank the chairman for his work and continued support on this issue. To make a few closing points, nothing about this…”

“I thank the chairman for his work and continued support on this issue. To make a few closing points, nothing about this amendment would allow for mining in the Boundary Waters, period. {time} 1800 In fact, to demonstrate the disconnect and level of misinformation on this issue, my colleagues who stand in opposition to this amendment worked to have report language accompany this bill which incorrectly calls attention to a ``proposal'' to withdraw lands within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area, despite the fact there is no such proposal and it remains unlawful to mine within the Boundary Waters. Nothing about this amendment eliminates any existing environmental protections. This amendment reinforces the commonsense reality that economic growth and environmental protection do not have to be mutually exclusive. I am pleased to have the support of the House on this very important issue during this 115th Congress. I am pleased to have the pledged support and continued commitment from the administration to end this withdrawal. I am pleased that we will soon be able to get Washington out of the lives of thousands of hardworking Minnesotans. Mr. Chair, I yield back the balance of my time. Mr. Chair, I withdraw the amendment. The Acting CHAIR. The amendment is withdrawn. Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Chair, I reserved my time. The gentleman has withdrawn the amendment. Even though the amendment has been withdrawn, I don't have the right to close or I would have used my time.…”