US Representative Ann Kirkpatrick introduced legislation yesterday (Wednesday) that throws her support behind a controversial underground copper mine near Superior. Kirkpatrick’s support is considered vital to the project because she represents the area where the mine would be developed and because she is a Democrat. The mine already has the support of Republican Senators John McCain and John Kyl, but it needs bipartisan support in order to be approved by the Democratic-controlled Congress.
The proposed federal land exchange that is necessary for the development of the mine stalled two years ago after Kirkpatrick’s predecessor--Rick Renzi--became involved in a corruption scandal. It has also been blocked by environmental and Native American protests. The land contains cultural and religious sites that are sacred to the San Carlos Apaches and other Native American tribes.
Kirkpatrick says that for her it all comes down to jobs. She says the project could bring as many as 1,000 well paying jobs to the area.
No comments:
Post a Comment