Just as a point of clarification, currently there isn't a "no open pit mining law" on the books. That is just Ortega's sentiments.

Chavez has until ~ the end of July to make open pit mining illegal, or change earlier decrees inre Imataca allowing what Kry and Grz want to do. After that they have to go to the NA.

If they don't change the law (to make open-pit mining illegal), it doesn't mean they will issue the permit, but that argument/excuse becomes further weakened.