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Appropriations panel backs $900,000 for state mine inspector to modernize records and abandoned‑mine database
Summary
Lawmakers approved an appropriation for the State Mine Inspector to modernize outdated IT systems and create a unified record/inspection platform; members asked about the funding increase requested vs. the inspector’s ask and how funds will be used to close safety gaps at abandoned mines.
The committee approved House Bill 2269, which directs a $900,000 appropriation from the state general fund for the State Mine Inspector to modernize technology used for mine safety inspections, abandoned‑mine records and reclamation tracking.
Representative Gail Griffin, sponsor of the bill, said the appropriation pays for an integrated system (salesforce or similar) to replace aging FileMaker Pro and Microsoft Access tools that the inspector’s office currently uses to track mine inspections and abandoned mine closure records. Committee members said they wanted more detail on why the inspector’s original request (reported as $680,000 in a prior hearing) increased to $900,000; the sponsor and agency staff said the additional funding reflected broader modernization needs and ongoing licensing and database expenses.
Witnesses told the committee Arizona has an estimated 100,000 abandoned mines with only about 10% closed with safety work; members voiced public-safety concerns and supported the investment. The committee gave the bill a due‑pass recommendation by recorded vote (18 yes, 0 no); members asked the agency to provide additional documentation about cost differences before later budget negotiations.
