New low in GOP-sold out WI: big polluter amnesty

We've seen right-wing GOP Governor Scott Walker's "chamber of commerce mentality" DNR green light wetlands fillings, cut back pollution inspections, tolerate groundwater contaminating manure flows from feedlots with comical wrist-slaps and let sand mine diggers tear up even pristine woodlands, but right-wing GOP Attorney General Brad Schimel - - with a chief of staff from the ranks of lobbyists and a new internal unit established to give priority to a conservative, corporate agenda - - has given a major polluter

a jaw-dropping pass:

A 'settlement' to stop polluting the air without a penalty or fine.  

2016 air pollution case against 3M Corp. represented the first time under Attorney General Brad Schimel the Justice Department allowed a company to make upgrades to a facility but avoid paying a financial penalty as part of the settlement. 

Minnesota-based 3M agreed to make $665,000 in improvements at two facilities in Wausau for air pollution violations in 2014 and 2015, according to court records.

I'll bet VW is envious. 

Oh - - and the 3M violations occurred on 29 days at two facilities in 2014 and 2015, so something of a pattern.

I think you can imagine how Schimel would approach clean water violations by the big groundwater users he's helping to win permanent control of that public resource.

So Happy Earth Day next month, Bucky, but check the air quality before engaging in outdoor activities.