After hours of strong debate from both parties, the mining legislation passed the Wisconsin State Assembly Thursday evening, March 7. State Representative Rob Swearingen (R-Rhinelander) voted in favor of the legislation.

“I am thrilled that the Mining for Jobs legislation was able to pass today. I have full confidence in the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Army Corps of Engineers to protect our environment. This state of the art mining bill complete with the latest technology will protect our high environmental standards here in Wisconsin,” said Rep. Swearingen.

“Iron mining will bring economic development and attract good family sustaining jobs to the Northwoods for years to come. I have high hopes that additional industry will follow on the heels of the mine and provide more employment opportunities for the residents of the Northwoods,” said Rep. Swearingen.

Rep. Swearingen continued, “Mining exists in both Michigan and Minnesota, if our neighbors can responsibly and environmentally safely conduct iron mining, so can Wisconsin.”

For more information, or to contact Rep. Swearingen, click here.