HELENA, MT - Governor Greg Gianforte today released the following statement after the Montana Supreme Court upheld the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) permit for the Black Butte Copper Mine:

“Today’s ruling from the Montana Supreme Court is a significant win for our economy, our state’s mining industry, and workers at the Black Butte Copper Mine. This decision ends years of litigation that held back investment and the creation of good-paying jobs for Montanans. I’m grateful to Director Kaster, DNRC, as well as the Department of Environmental Quality for their work to resolve these issues.

“By reinforcing Montana’s position as a leader in critical mineral production, we are paving the way for future investment. Together, we will continue to foster an environment where businesses can thrive, create good-paying jobs, and bring the American dream into greater reach for all Montanans.”