A National Academy of Sciences committee is pressing Virginia mining and environmental officials on their ability to regulate uranium mining if a 1982 state ban is lifted.

Opponents said the statements of the department heads made it clear the state doesn't have the resources to oversee the mining of the largest uranium deposit in the United States.

The meeting Monday in Richmond was the second all-day session held in Virginia by the panel of scientists, mining experts and environmental officials.

Members are expected to complete their findings in December on the consequences of Virginia ending its ban on uranium mining. The committee will not make a recommendation.

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