Legislation to Help Mining Companies in the U.P. Passed in State House

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    Mining tax approved by State HouseMARQUETTE, MI – (Great Lakes Radio News)Legislation authored by an Upper Michigan lawmaker designed to help mining companies in the U.P. has been approved by the State House of Representatives.

    The package of bills is intended to allow U.P. mining companies to create jobs and become stronger financially while encouraging economic development in the region.

    The bills, introduced by 110th District State Representative Matt Huuki, place a 2.75 percent severance tax on gross mineral value on specified minerals such as copper and nickel.  The legislation replaces a series of taxes that mining companies currently pay.

    Sixty-five percent of the revenue from the severance tax will be retained by counties, townships, school districts and the school aid fund.  The remaining 35 percent would go into a rural development fund to support long-term regional economic opportunities.

    The legislation now goes to the Senate for consideration.

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    1 COMMENT

    1. This is my opinion in response to “In the Right Mind” aired on December 1, 2012. Mr. Huuki said he did his best with the severance mine tax. That does not cut it. He and other U.P. legislators must do what is best for the U.P.

      Do we want a “boom and bust” economy in the U.P.? Do we really know how many “yoopers” Rio Tinto Kennecott has hired in Marquette County? Are the readers aware that Riot Tinto Kennecott is foremost in mining companies that are experimenting with the use of robots in the mine pits?

      I want to know how many “yoopers” have been hired by Rio Tinto Kennecott and I want to know their aggregate salary.

      County Commmission Chairperson Pellow is absolutely correct. It is easier to reach “In the Right Mind” than to get essential information on the projected value of the ore and the numerical justification from legislators that the proposed mine severance tax is harmless to the U.P.

      In my opinion, it’s 80% (U.P.) and 20% (rural development fund) or the legislators can go back to the drawing board.

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