Coal ash commission, drinking water bill clears House

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) – An effort to revive a North Carolina commission to help oversee the cleanup of coal ash pits maintained by Duke Energy and ensure nearby residents get piped drinking water has cleared the state House.

The chamber voted Wednesday for the measure to reconstitute the Coal Ash Management Commission. Gov. Pat McCrory shut down the original commission following a court ruling that found the legislature held too much control over a panel with executive branch duties.

McCrory told legislators he would veto the bill, calling it unnecessary. His lawyer said more litigation would occur if it became law.

Rep. Chuck McGrady of Hendersonville said the commission provides a second level of regulation to decide how the pits should be cleaned up. The bill passed 86-25 and now goes to the Senate.

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