In first Assembly address, Kolste knocks mining bill

By GAZETTE STAFF Friday, March 8, 2013

JANESVILLE — Rep. Debra Kolste, D-Janesville, spoke out against the proposed mining law and in support of a substitute bill drafted by Sen. Tim Cullen, D-Janesville, according to a news release from Kolste’s office.

It was her first speech in the Assembly.

“The vast majority of Wisconsin residents oppose the bill that was passed on Thursday,’’ Kolste said in the news release. “This bill includes a presumption that damage to the groundwater is a necessary outcome of mining, turning decades of Wisconsin environmental law on its head.’’

Cullen’s bill would have set a longer time frame for permit approval than the GOP bill.

Unlike the Republican measure, Cullen’s bill would have allowed the public to challenge the decision-making process while it is still in progress.

Kolste received a round of applause by Assembly members after her address, which is the custom after delivery of a member’s first speech, regardless of party or agreement with content.

“I appreciated the courtesy of my colleagues,’’ she said. “I am disturbed, however, by this vote, and by the disdain it shows for the environment and public opinion.’’

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