PORTLAND PRESS HERALD • January 17, 2023
Experts have valued the lithium contained in a region of Plumbago Mountain in Newry at $1.5 billion. Lithium is a critical element in several types of batteries, including those found in electric vehicles. Because of spiking demand for EVs, the global price of lithium has surged. Mainers can reap immense benefits if lawmakers get on board soon. The U.S. Geological Survey has stated that “neither lithium-cesium-tantalum pegmatites nor their parental granites are likely to cause serious environmental concerns.” A bill sponsored by Rep. Mike Soboleski, R-Phillips, would make changes to state law to bring those massive benefits to the region. If Mainers are to reap the benefits of the global lithium boom, lawmakers must move to pass Soboleski’s bill as quickly as possible. What is more important to the governor and her allies in the legislature? Meeting the state’s EV goals, or maintaining their allegiance to environmental activists? ~ Nick Murray, Maine Policy Institute, a rightwing think tank