Lengthy delays in the permitting process for mining exploration could potentially curtail new exploration in the state by small mining companies and force major mining firms to spend exploration budgets elsewhere, mining executives say.The disconnect between mineral exploration teams and the regulatory agencies regarding permitting timelines was the focus of a panel discussion at a meeting last week of the Nevada Mineral Exploration Coalition, a group that represents small and individual mineral explorers throughout the state.Delays in processing permits happen for a variety of reasons, including staff shortages in state and federal agencies and the industry's unfamiliarity with the requirements …