I-186 creates more problems than it solves

The word “bamboozled” isn’t one we use often nor understand anymore. However, if I-186 passes we’ll get a darn good reminder of its proper use. Bamboozled means the use of a ploy, ruse or scheme to achieve a specific goal. An example would be, “Tom Sawyer ‘bamboozled’ the neighborhood boys into doing it for him.”

The proponents behind I-186 are presenting it as a much-needed solution, when in reality I-186 creates more problems than it solves. I-186 is a proposal to stop the future of mining in Montana that is being pushed almost entirely by out-of-state interests.

Why does this matter? Because these out-of-state groups are out-of-touch with Montana and don’t care if I-186 completely upends the balance between mining and protecting the environment that Montana has achieved. The only thing they care about is making sure they have a place to recreate and vacation.

This attempt to shut down mining in Montana is not a grassroots movement. In fact, it is quite the opposite. It’s a nationwide environmental activist effort, and if successful, will put restrictions on this state that will not only prevent future mining, it will have a serious impact on our state economy.

At this point campaign finance records indicate that nearly 75 percent of the donations to the I-186 campaign have come from out of state. Most of us don’t even realize we’re being misled — or bamboozled — just like Tom’s neighborhood friends.

Don’t be bamboozled. Vote no on I-186.

Ed Greef of Florence is Representative of HD-88.