Republican Senator Jeremy Miller of Winona has co-authored bipartisan legislation that will provide assistance and guidance for local governments as they set guidelines for silica sand mining.

The bipartisan legislation was sponsored by many southern Minnesota legislators, including DFL Senator Matt Schmit of Red Wing and fellow Republican Representatives Tim Kelly of Red Wing and Steve Drazkowski of Mazeppa.

Miller says he believes the legislation would protect the well-being of  citizens, natural resources, infrastructure and small communities, while still encouraging job growth and economic development opportunities.

The legislation would create a Silica Sand Technical Advisory Council to provide assistance and guidance for local governments as they set local guidelines for silica sand mining.

The council would be composed of agency representatives from the Pollution Control Agency, the Department of Natural Resources and the Departments of Health and Transportation.

The legislation also calls for the council to assist local government in the establishment of local ordinances.