Political Quotes

“This brochure indicates also that mining companies, one of which is pictured here, have received an award for excellence in mining reclamation. Mr. President, the State of Nevada is totally different from the State of Alaska. The State of Nevada is the most mountainous State in the Union, except for Alaska. We have lots of mountains, over 11,000 feet high--32 to be exact. Alaska has a lot of water. We don't have a lot of water. Mining regulations in the State of Alaska should be different than those in the State of Nevada. The State of Alaska should have some control in setting the standards for mining reclamation, mining bonding and other such things. The State of Nevada should have different standards because we live in a desert in Nevada. That is the point. Each State is subject to different water quality conditions, air-related issues, issues that stem from local climate conditions, disposal criteria, and other issues that are distinct from State to State. That is something the Federal Government must recognize, and the agency does. The BLM recognizes that because they have different standards in each State. That is why the present regulations are working pretty well. Also, Mr. President, understand this. We have asked the National Academy of Sciences to study this. We don't tell them what result to reach. We will accept what they come up with. Why shouldn't those who want these regulations changed not accept it also? We are not asking for some predisposed venue.”