Representatives of mining exploration firms are applauding a bill that would rescind steep increases to mining claim fees imposed during a special session last year.
Backers of SB492 told the Senate Revenue Committee on Tuesday that, unlike big mining corporations, the bulk of the mining claim fees are paid by exploration companies that do not have mineral producing revenue.
SB492 would roll back those fees that were imposed on a tiered rate based on the number of claims held.
Tuesday's hearing also took aim at deductions taken by the mining industry when calculating net proceeds taxes - an issue that has been hotly debated this legislative session.
Sen. Sheila Leslie of Reno says the Revenue Committee will discuss all pending mining bills during a work session Thursday.
