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Coal ash cleanup change clears NC Legislature

BELMONT, N.C. — North Carolina legislators have given final approval to a new process to allow Duke Energy to use less expensive alternatives to clean up coal ash pits at seven sites while ensuring drinking water is piped to residents near the ponds in about two years.

The House voted late Thursday for legislation developed after Gov. Pat McCrory vetoed another bill that also would have reinstated a state Coal Ash Management Commission that he never supported and sued over.

That commission is gone in the bill that surfaced this week and already cleared the Senate. The bill now goes to McCrory's desk.

The new legislation allows alternatives to closing pits at the seven sites without removing ash, if Duke makes some repairs. Excavations will still continue at seven other sites.

Residents near the Allen Steam Station in Belmont believe the plant and the coal ash ponds are the reason why their wells show high levels of heavy metals.

They said the legislation provides a source of clean drinking water, but it doesn't do enough to protect them or their families.

"We are not ignorant," resident Debra Baker said.

The group had harsh words for Gov. Pat McCrory.

"I feel like Gov. McCrory and Duke Energy are still playing games at the expense of our future," Baker said.

Residents want the ponds sealed and removed.

Jim Mitchem is a former Duke Energy employee who live near ash ponds.

"It is not unreasonable to ask that coal be removed from the area that endangers people's health or their property values," Mitchem said.

Residents want a commission to oversee the ash ponds and they want people who live near the ponds on that commission.

Rep. Kelly Hastings voted for the legislation.

"First and foremost, we have got to get those kids and those families clean drinking water," Hastings said.

He said the General Assembly can examine the other issues later. The group said this legislation has to be stopped now.

"We will keep fighting until we get the right answers," Baker said.

Residents believe their only other recourse is to make sure the governor isn't re-elected in November.

CLICK HERE for more information on the legislation.

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