ST. PAUL – Senator Rob Farnsworth (R- Hibbing) released the following statement responding to a proposed bill to expand the Taconite Assistance Area (TAA) to include Carlton County. The bill, as proposed, would not result in any TAA expansion unless mining is approved and begins. 

“I am aware that a bill to include portions of Carlton County in the Taconite Assistance Area has been introduced in the Senate. While 20% of Talon’s leases are in Carlton County, Talon officials have told me they have found ‘no significant mineralization’ yet. Until we have a better idea of the mineral reserves in that county, this bill is premature and doesn’t have my support.

“However, expanding the TAA, like we did for portions of Aitkin County last year, is a discussion we need to have because ultimately, the expansion of mining in Minnesota is a good thing.

“Schools across the state are struggling with the expensive mandates from last session. Grandstanding by legislators on this issue only drives a partisan wedge on the Range and is not helpful. Frankly, I’m far more concerned about metro DFL bills to ban mining and add more permitting requirements making progress this session. I will continue to work with my colleagues from both parties to help them understand the unique needs and resources on the Range.”