⛏️Pennsylvania Surface Mining Regulatory Amendments and Implications
Pennsylvania Regulatory Program
Summary
We, the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE), are approving an amendment to the Pennsylvania regulatory program under the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 (SMCRA or the Act). The amendment proposes to revise the Pennsylvania program to comply with four required amendments and to correct a provision we previously disapproved. The proposed amendment also includes revisions to Pennsylvania's program, including effluent limitations for bituminous underground coal mines, temporary cessation, the definition of Surface Mining Activities, civil penalties, and administrative requirements, as well as other administrative updates and non-substantive corrections.
Agencies
- Interior Department
- Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement Office
Business Impact
$$$ - High
The regulatory amendment requires business owners in Pennsylvania's coal mining sector to comply with new effluent limitations, civil penalties, and definitions, significantly affecting operational and financial aspects. It includes revisions to bonding and financial guarantees for regulatory compliance, impacting financial planning and liability.