Vinehout To Introduce Bills To Make Frac Sand Mining Activities More Transparent

Democratic state Sen. Kathleen Vinehout is introducing a package of bills aimed at giving Wisconsinites more information about nearby frac sand mining activities.

These bills are similar to ones that were blocked by Republicans during the last legislative session. The package of four bills would expand public notice when local governments are considering frac sand permit applications and require those selling property to disclose whether mines are planned nearby. They would also force frac sand companies to get permits for exploratory drilling and building mines in certain agricultural areas.

Similar bills submitted last session never got a public hearing in the Republican-controlled Legislature. Vinehout said if these measures stall again, the bills will still raise awareness.

“Part of the process is being persistent,” she said. “It’s stating over and over again what the problem is and how we need to fix it and this is, for me, a long-term investment in a better way of life for western Wisconsin.”

Vinehout said her bills will be circulating for co-sponsorship until March 11.