Summary
The US Senate voted 50-49 to remove a 20-year ban on mining near Minnesota’s Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. The measure, already passed by the House, will go to President Donald Trump, who is expected to approve it. The decision allows a mining company to pursue plans for a copper and nickel mine near this protected area, despite opposition from environmental groups.
Key Facts
- The Senate vote repealed a mining ban in the Superior national forest near the Boundary Waters Wilderness in Minnesota.
- The ban had been set by the Biden administration in 2023 and covered 225,000 acres.
- Twin Metals Minnesota, owned by Chile’s Antofagasta PLC, wants to build a copper and nickel mine nearby.
- Environmental groups warn that mining could pollute the wilderness area.
- Minnesota Senator Tina Smith opposed the repeal, highlighting environmental risks and foreign ownership concerns.
- Two Republicans, Susan Collins and Thom Tillis, joined Democrats in voting against the repeal.
- The mining company says projects will face strict environmental reviews and could create jobs.
- Legal challenges and permits are still required before mining can start.
