Uranium mining in Virginia

RICHMOND, Va. - The state Coal and Energy Commission is expected to order a study of uranium mining in Virginia.

Uranium mining has been banned in Virginia since the 1980s.  A company that owns a massive uranium deposit in Pittsylvania estimated to be worth $10 billion has repeatedly asked for a study to see if the element could be mined safely.

A legislative committee this winter rejected a scientific study of uranium mining by the National Academy of Sciences amid protests from environmentalists and some Southside residents who feared it would lead to ending the 25-year moratorium.

The commission that meets Thursday to consider the study is made up of citizens involved in the mining industry and legislators.