Georgia Eyes Higher Coal Ash Fee; Residents Seek More Action

ATLANTA (AP) — Georgia senators are passing a measure that would increase the fee for dumping coal ash in the state. The Senate passed Senate Bill 123 on Monday by a vote of 52-2. The measure would raise the fee for dumping coal ash from $1 a ton to $2.50 a ton, equaling what it costs to dispose of other kinds of garbage. Coal ash has become a flashpoint in the state. Near Georgia Power Co.'s Plant Scherer in Juliette, environmentalists have been conducting tests that have found contaminated well water. Some Juliette residents were at the capitol Monday to demand action.