Seems to me that this would create more interest in the miner's........

I agree,

Most investors do not want the hastle of buying and owning physical as it requires some work so mining shares could become the paper choice.

and also the physical. Coins and other retail type stuff. I am not sure if anyone knows how this will play out as I get the sense it was hidden in a much bigger bill. I think it could be a good thing as it will steer people away from snake oil into real medicine. The biggest consequence is that it will start a conversation amongst investors and traders about gold and perhaps wake up the zombie population. Don't touch the stove!!! lol