Arizona mining push targets protected lands near Grand Canyon
A state proposal asks federal officials to lift mining limits near the Grand Canyon and speed permits, raising concerns about environmental and cultural impacts
Arizona lawmakers are considering a measure urging the Trump administration to ease restrictions on mining in protected areas, including land near the Grand Canyon, according to Arizona Mirror. House Concurrent Memorial 2009 asks federal officials to repeal policies that limit mineral extraction and to streamline permitting for new mines. Supporters said the proposal is aimed at expanding access to copper and other minerals that are restricted by federal land protections.
Opponents raised concerns about environmental impacts and the protection of culturally significant lands. State Sen. Theresa Hatathlie, a citizen of the Navajo Nation, criticized the proposal during a committee hearing, while supporters said it seeks to balance conservation with resource access. The lands referenced in the proposal include areas designated as national monuments, which tribes have identified as culturally and spiritually significant, according to Arizona Mirror.
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