RDC Letter:
Support of SB 2 - Supporting Alaska to become a full member of the IMCC

February 7, 2013

The Honorable Fred Dyson, Chair
Senate State Affairs Committee
Alaska State Legislature
State Capitol Room 121
Juneau, AK 99801

Re: SB 2 - An Act enacting the Interstate Mining Compact and relating to the compact; relating to the Interstate Mining Commission.

Dear Senator Dyson:

The Resource Development Council is writing in support of SB 2, an act that will allow the State of Alaska to join the Interstate Mining Compact Commission (IMCC) as a full member.

RDC is a statewide, non-profit, membership-funded organization founded in 1975. The RDC membership is comprised of individuals and companies from Alaska’s oil and gas, mining, timber, tourism, and fisheries industries, as well as Alaska Native corporations, local communities, organized labor, and industry support firms. RDC’s purpose is to link these diverse interests together to encourage a strong, diversified private sector in Alaska and expand the state’s economic base through the responsible development of our natural resources.

Historically, mining has been a cornerstone of Alaska’s economy. Many roads, docks and other infrastructure throughout Alaska were originally constructed to serve the mining industry. Alaska should encourage a viable mining industry that will continue to help diversify our economy and improve infrastructure statewide.

In joining the IMCC, Alaska could show leadership in advocating for a healthy and stable permitting and regulatory system. The IMCC is a commission of states aligned to promote environmentally responsible resource development. Alaska can gain the experience of best practices from other member states to ensure an effective regulatory system. The IMCC recognizes the importance of mining nationwide and brings a collective voice to Washington D.C., advocating for states’ rights.

Furthermore, joining the IMCC as a full member will allow Alaska to benefit in many ways, including partnering with other states on federal issues, and building on successes that will promote the mining industry in Alaska and nationwide.

RDC urges you to move SB 2 from the State Affairs Committee in a timely manner, and thanks you for your consideration of our comments.

Sincerely,
Resource Development Council for Alaska