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McCollum Statement on Passage of Anti-Boundary Waters Legislation

November 30, 2017

Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.) released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation paving the way for toxic sulfide-ore copper mining on the doorstep of Minnesota's Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness:

"The polluters won today, but the fight is not over. I am deeply disappointed that the U.S. House of Representatives is now on the record supporting toxic sulfide-ore copper mining on the doorstep of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, which would destroy this pristine wilderness forever.

"However, the vote was close and showed the broad, bipartisan opposition to a foreign conglomerate threatening our Boundary Waters with toxic mining. I am very appreciative that 22 Republicans broke ranks and joined 182 Democrats voting against this destructive bill.

"This close vote sends a clear message to the Senate that this legislation is politically toxic and should not even be considered, much less passed. Minnesotans and Americans must not give up: We must keep making our voices heard and urging our Senators to save the Boundary Waters."