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Mining group backs RS32650 to clarify permitting and public input for cyanidation ore processing
Summary
The Idaho Mining Association urged the committee to send RS32650 to print to modernize statutory permitting requirements for ore cyanidation, citing decades without a permitted facility and recent uncertainties in a recent application process.
Benjamin Davenport, executive vice president of the Idaho Mining Association, told Senate State Affairs the association supports RS32650, a draft that would update Idaho code to reflect current industry practices and environmental standards for ore processing by cyanidation.
Davenport said Idaho has not permitted a cyanidation facility in more than 30 years and the current statute is roughly 20 years old and has not been tested in modern permitting. He said ambiguities emerged during a recent permit application and the RS provides clarity for engineering design submissions, avoids duplicative environmental permitting, grants the Department of Environmental Quality flexibility on review timelines, and codifies multiple opportunities for public participation in the permitting process.
Senator Harris moved to send RS32650 to print and the committee approved the motion. The sponsor said the draft was developed with the Department of Environmental Quality and industry stakeholders and asked the committee to print the RS for further consideration.
