The passage of HB 1351 would prevent the transfer of Oak Flat to foreign corporations such as Rio Tinto and BHP, which have been accused of detrimental practices and human rights violations in their mining operations globally. Critics emphasize that the mining activities proposed at Oak Flat would not only destroy the land but also lead to significant water resource depletion in a region already grappling with water scarcity. By preserving Oak Flat, the bill aims to protect cultural heritage and local environmental integrity.
Summary
House Bill 1351, known as the 'Save Oak Flat From Foreign Mining Act', seeks to repeal a section of the Carl Levin and Howard P. ‘Buck’ McKeon National Defense Authorization Act that mandated the transfer of approximately 2,422 acres of sacred land known as Oak Flat to foreign entities, specifically Resolution Copper Mining LLC. This land is located in the Tonto National Forest and is significant both culturally and environmentally. The bill highlights concerns over foreign ownership and environmental degradation associated with large-scale mining operations in sensitive areas.
Contention
Supporters of HB 1351 argue that the bill is essential for safeguarding Indigenous rights and preventing ecological destruction caused by the mining operations of foreign companies. They contend that allowing Resolution Copper to proceed with its plans will result in irreversible damage to the local ecosystem and to the cultural practices of Indigenous communities. Conversely, opponents may argue that mining presents economic opportunities and that regulations could be put in place to mitigate environmental risks, generating jobs and resources for the region.