Montana Mining Discharge and Water Quality Initiative, I-122 (1996)
From Ballotpedia
The Montana Mining Discharge and Water Quality Initiative, also known as I-122, was an initiated state statute on the November 5, 1996 ballot in Montana, where it was defeated.
I-122 sought to increases requirements for treatment of water discharged from mines.
Election results
| I-122 (Mining Discharge and Water Quality Initiative) | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Result | Votes | Percentage | ||
 No | 230,283 | 56.7% | ||
| Yes | 175,534 | 43.3% | ||
Official results via: The Montana Secretary of State
Text of measure
The language that appeared on the ballot:
- State law currently allows mine discharges to be diluted after release into state waters in determining whether water quality standards are met. This initiative prohibits issuance of new metal mine permits, exploration licenses, or major amendments to cyanide-leach mine permits if mine discharges exceed existing water quality standards at the point of release into state waters. It would require treatment, before dilution or release, to:
- - remove 80% of each carcinogen, toxin and nutrient; or
- - meet existing state water quality standards for carcinogens, toxins, iron and manganese, whichever provides greater water quality protection.
- If passed, the measure would take effect immediately.
- Fiscal Statement:
- This initiative increases water treatment requirements and associated costs for certain discharges from some metal mines and exploration operations. Some new mines and mine expansions may no longer be technologically or economically viable, resulting in reduced employment and tax revenue from the mining industry.[1]
See also
- List of Montana ballot measures
- 1996 ballot measures
- Montana 1996 ballot measures
- Montana Minimum Wage, Initiative 151 (2006)
External links
- Statutory Initiative and Referendum Issues - The Montana Secretary of State
- Montana 1996 Voter Information Pamphlet
References
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