Mining is a part of our state’s history. The settlers who came to Missouri, specifically our area, were drawn to the abundant natural resources below their feet. In the centuries since, the mining industry has played an important part in our local and state economy

However, the public’s safety has to be our primary concern. We have to ensure that the ways we mine are environmentally safe and pose as little risk as humanly possible to local residents. The people who live in the vicinity of these mining operations also need to be part of the conversation. Their lives are directly impacted, and they have a right to voice their concerns and have them addressed.

One of the ways we ensure the public is part of the process is by requiring surface mine operators to send a notice of intent to property owners adjacent to a proposed site. Unfortunately, a recent incident in Southeast Missouri highlighted a glaring loophole in that current law.

Many residents near a proposed surface mine last year were never informed of the project because the site boundary line for the mine was set a few feet behind the property line. In effect, this meant there were no “official” adjacent or contiguous property owners.

This isn’t right. I support the mining industry in this state, but not before the health and livelihoods of my constituents. Residents have a right to voice their concerns regarding possible surface mines that could greatly affect their lives and their property.

To close this loophole, I’ve filed Senate Bill 642, which would require proposed surface mining operations to contact all landowners within a half-mile. This guarantees that all citizens in the area are aware of what’s taking place.

On Tuesday, the Senate Commerce, Consumer Protection, Energy and the Environment Committee conducted a hearing on this legislation. Various witnesses testified on the necessity of this bill. The members of the committee were receptive to the problem, especially as it could affect numerous other areas of the state. I’m hopeful my colleagues move quickly to address this issue.

In other news, legislation I’ve filed to support Missouri’s innovation campuses received a hearing on Wednesday in the Jobs, Economic Development and Local Government Committee. Senate Bill 729 would create a tax credit for companies that donate to innovation campuses. These programs were established last year. Local school districts partner with higher education institutions and certain businesses to streamline degrees in science, technology, engineering and math.

This tax credit would allow other businesses to also partner with these schools so that they can offer guidance on what kind of qualifications future employees will need. Instead of students earning degrees in subjects they hope will have openings, they can take part in an accelerated degree program that will help them land jobs in high-demand fields. 

It’s an exciting new approach to higher education, and I believe this tax credit would strengthen its promise. The bill needs a final vote from the committee to move to the floor for possible debate.

A number of visitors stopped by my Capitol office this week. I was happy to speak with retired teachers who visited Jefferson City. I met with Mike Graham, a teacher from our area, and Jeff Lindsey, assistant superintendent of the Ste. Genevieve School District.  Also, Dee and Mike McCormack and Thomas Heady with McCormack Ellington Telecom.

Jeremy Mathis, an FFA student from Potosi, stopped by my office, as well as Kaycee Mauer, a student from Fontbonne University. A number of dental hygiene students came to the Capitol for their annual lobbying day, including Kendra Hoog. Dr. Victoria Damba, of the Missouri Association of Osteopathic Physicians and Surgeons, was also kind enough to speak with me.  

Sen. Romine’s Sponsored Legislation for 2014

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