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HB 2421

Amending surface mining reclamation requirements

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Evan Hansen and 1 co-sponsor

HB 2421 strengthens surface mining reclamation in West Virginia by enhancing bonding requirements, establishing an advisory council, and ensuring proper land restoration post-mining.

To House Energy and Public Works
#environment
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Bill Summary · HB 2421

Summary of HB 2421: Amending Surface Mining Reclamation Requirements

Bill Information:
- Bill Number: HB 2421
- Title: Amending Surface Mining Reclamation Requirements
- Status: To House Energy and Public Works
- Introduced: January 31, 2025
- Classification: Bill
- Subject: Environment

Purpose and Intent

HB 2421 aims to revise the surface mining reclamation requirements in West Virginia. The bill seeks to enhance the financial stability and operational efficiency of the special reclamation fund, which is critical for ensuring that mined lands are properly reclaimed after mining activities cease.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes several significant changes to existing laws regarding surface mining reclamation:

  1. Reclamation Fund Advisory Council:

    • Establishes a special reclamation fund advisory council within the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).
    • The council will consist of eight members, including representatives from the DEP, the state treasury, and various stakeholders from the coal industry and environmental protection organizations.

  2. Bonding Requirements:

    • Revises the bonding requirements for mining operations to ensure that bonds reflect actual reclamation costs.
    • Introduces conditions for bonding companies to ensure the viability of the special reclamation fund.

  3. Coordination with Tax Department:

    • Mandates coordination between the tax department and the DEP to ensure accurate reporting and timely payments into the special reclamation fund.

  4. Permit Conditions:

    • Requires that mining operations maintain current payments to the special reclamation fund as a condition for obtaining and retaining mining permits.

  5. Regular Reviews:

    • The advisory council is tasked with conducting regular reviews of the special reclamation fund's effectiveness and financial stability, including evaluating bond forfeiture collections and compliance with reclamation plans.

Impact

  • Mining Operators: The bill will directly affect mining operators by imposing stricter bonding requirements and ensuring that they are financially accountable for reclamation efforts.
  • Environmental Protection: The establishment of the advisory council and improved coordination with the tax department aims to enhance environmental protections related to surface mining.
  • Public Interest: The bill seeks to safeguard public interests by ensuring that mined lands are reclaimed properly, thereby reducing potential environmental hazards.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Timeline:
    • January 31, 2025: Filed with the Clerk by Rep. Natalie A. Manley.
    • February 4, 2025: First reading and referred to the Rules Committee.
    • February 17, 2025: Introduced in the House and referred to the Energy and Public Works Committee.
    • March 21, 2025: Re-referred to the Rules Committee.

This bill represents a significant step towards improving the management and reclamation of surface mining operations in West Virginia, with an emphasis on financial accountability and environmental stewardship.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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