Sen. Gene McLaurin (25th District) (919) 733-5953 Gene.McLaurin@ncleg.net
♦ Since the February 2014 coal ash spill on the Dan River, we have learned a lot about coal ash ponds in our state and the dangers of coal ash spilling or seeping into groundwater. Yesterday and today we debated Senate Bill 729 – a bill that makes a good faith first step toward cleaning up coal ash in our state. I offered an amendment to prioritize clean-up of the 3 Buck Plant coal ash ponds located in Rowan County on the Yadkin -Pee Dee River. This river supplies drinking water to a majority of citizens in my district. I have talked personally to families living nearby the Buck Plant who have experienced higher than acceptable levels of hexavalent chromium and other metals in their well water. They deserve clean water. While the amendment failed, I am confident this bill takes the right initial steps toward a comprehensive clean-up of coal ash. For me, this is not about politics. This is about protecting clean drinking water for families in Anson, Richmond, Stanly, Scotland, and Rowan Counties. I remain committed to protecting our families and ensuring that the cost of this clean-up does not fall on the backs of hard-working people.
