Bill Text: MI SR0027 | 2015-2016 | 98th Legislature | Enrolled
Bill Title: A resolution designating September 6, 2015, as Michigan Mining Day.
Spectrum: Strong Partisan Bill (Republican 15-1)
Status: (Passed) 2015-03-26 - Adopted As Amended [SR0027 Detail]
Download: Michigan-2015-SR0027-Enrolled.html
SR-27, As Adopted by Senate, March 26, 2015
Senate Resolution No. 27.
A resolution designating September 6, 2015, as Michigan Mining Day.
Whereas, Michigan Mining Day is a day which is especially fitting as mining was instrumental in the settling of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and became a way of life dating back more than a century in the Upper Peninsula, which is designated by a single area code that is the numerical equivalent to the date: 9-06; and
Whereas, Michigan is blessed with an abundance of valuable mineral resources. Our state's long and diverse geologic history has produced a wide variety of minerals, notably copper, iron, nickel, salt, sand, gravel, and limestone; and
Whereas, Mining played an integral part of Michigan's history and growth. More native copper ore was mined in Michigan's Keweenaw Peninsula from 1845 to 1887 than any other place in North America. For many years, Michigan produced more than one-half of the nation's supply of copper. In 1844, rich iron ore deposits were discovered in the Upper Peninsula, and from the 1850s to the early 1900s, Michigan was the nation's leader in iron ore production. From 1880 to 1926, Michigan also ranked first or second in the nation in salt production. Michigan's mining industry was a major driver of the state’s early economy and growth and attracted immigrants from around the world. So important were the mineral riches of the Upper Peninsula that, in 1855, a remarkable engineering feat was completed. The canal and locks along the St. Mary's River were constructed to help enable the transport of these minerals around the world; and
Whereas, Mining continues to be an important piece of Michigan's economy and economic future, with mineral resources in the Upper Peninsula attracting new interest from a number of national and international companies. These companies are investing in Michigan and creating well-paying jobs, often in areas that are in dire need of economic opportunity. The Eagle Mine has created more than 300 new jobs that support another 1,250 jobs in the community; invested more than $50 million in public infrastructure; generates new local and state tax revenue; and is providing an estimated 20 percent boost to the local economy. It is a clear example of how the resurgence of mining can play a vital role in Michigan's economic recovery not only in the Upper Peninsula’s economy, but for the state as a whole; and
<<Whereas, Mining is a growing industry for our entire state. Limestone mines are found throughout Northeast Michigan including sites in Alpena and Presque Isle counties. Lafarge Presque Isle Quarry and Alpena Cement Plant and Quarry have approximately 500 employees in Michigan today, while the Calcite Plant in Presque Isle County lays claim to the world’s largest limestone quarry. Mining capabilities in Northern Michigan have paved the path for Alpena to house Lafarge’s largest cement plant in the nation; and>>
Whereas, Modern-day mining can boost our state and local economies while providing for a balanced use of the natural resources. In the last decade, the Legislature created new laws for nonferrous metallic mineral mining that bolstered our state's already-strong environmental standards and regulations, arguably making them the most stringent standards in the world. This ensures that today's mining is carried out safely and responsibly<< while being mindful of>> the environment and permitting local communities, families, and institutions to prosper and grow for future generations of Michiganders; and
Whereas, Even in the Information Age, abundant natural resources and their wise use can be the cornerstone of a successful state. Four of the top ten best-run states identified by the financial news publication 24/7 Wall St.—North Dakota, Wyoming, Texas, and Alaska—have robust mining industries that provide jobs, investments, and tax revenue that fuel these states’ economies and high ratings. The expansion of mining in Michigan can provide similar benefits and opportunities, helping build a strong, diverse, and resilient economy across all regions of our state; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Senate, That the members of this legislative body hereby designate September 6, 2015 (9-06), as Michigan Mining Day. We support the continued growth of mining and urge Michigan residents to join in supporting mining in Michigan so that our state may realize the economic opportunity it was naturally afforded.
