For Additional Information:
(202) 463-2610
Carol Raulston

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 16, 2002

STATEMENT BY NATIONAL MINING ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT JACK N. GERARD ON THE INTRODUCTION OF MINING LAW LEGISLATION

"The mining industry supports amendments to the General Mining Law that will provide a fair return to the government on the use of federally owned lands and creation of an abandoned mine land program funded by industry dollars, among other provisions," said NMA President Jack Gerard in response to legislation introduced today by Congressmen Nick Rahall and others. "We've advocated these steps since 1995, when Congress passed a bi-partisan bill addressing these significant issues -- a bill that subsequently was vetoed by President Clinton."

"We share important overall objectives with Congressman Rahall and others interested in constructive reform of the mining law. We support policies that will enhance the nation's ability to produce minerals essential to our economy and to our way of life, while providing needed jobs in mining communities. We view Congressman Rahall's involvement as a beginning point in this process. A process in which all parties will need to come together to promote -- rather than jeopardize-these critical national needs," Gerard emphasized.

Mr. Gerard concluded, "The mining industry is committed to constructive reform of the General Mining Law along with compliance with the full range of federal and state environmental laws that strictly regulate mining activities -- including reclamation of mining sites. In the interim, we hope to work with all interested parties to develop fair and balanced mining law reform."