Call to Action for all MAA Members – Revisions to the “Michigan Gravel Statute” will soon be introduced in the Michigan Legislature.

As you are aware, over the last several years many townships have imposed extraordinary requirements through local mining ordinances that have effectively eliminated new mining operations.  At a minimum, this is a clear violation of our basic property rights established in both the federal and state constitutions.  These unrealistic standards have forced mining companies into expensive and time consuming legal battles, many of which last for years and cost hundreds of thousands of dollars to litigate. Despite the clear legislative intent of Public Act 113, commonly known as the “gravel statute.”
 
How did this happen?  Clever municipal attorneys working with willing elected officials have created multiple barriers based upon emotion; not common sense. They have shared their strategies and tactics across the state and have effectively blocked or delayed applicants in multiple jurisdictions from earning the right to remove natural resources from their property. 
 
In an effort to bring balance to the process, MAA is proposing to improve the current permitting process that will set fair and clear standards for permitting. 
 
In an effort to get this bill passed during the 2018 lame duck session, we need the support of the entire MAA membership. 
 
Therefore, we are asking for all members to take the following steps:
 

1. Call your legislators House and Senate (If you are unsure of who they are visit the following site and enter your address) and ask them to support the Casperson Legislation.It is important to note that a bill has not been introduced.Senator Casperson will introduce the bill on Tuesday November 27.
   • Find your Senator by clicking here http://www.senate.michigan.gov/fysbyaddress.html
   • Find your Representative by clicking here http://www.house.mi.gov/MHRPublic/frmFindARep.aspx
2. Follow-up with Doug Needham, MAA President at (517) 896-6186 cell and let him know the details of your discussions.

 
We are at a critical point in the aggregate industries ability to open new operations.  We have high quality aggregates within reach to serve our communities as they rebuild their infrastructure.  But it is up to you to inform your legislators about the Casperson Legislation.