A bill to amend title V of the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 to assist small surface coal mine operators, and for other purposes.
Amends the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 to raise from 100,000 to 300,000 tons the eligibility threshold for a small surface coal mine operator for Federal assistance for designated mining-related activities upon the operator's written request in connection with a permit application.
Provides that the records and information generated pursuant to such activities shall be for the sole use of the pertinent regulatory authority and coal operator.
Mandates that the regulatory authority: (1) provide or assume the cost of training coal operators in permit preparation and program compliance; and (2) ensure that coal operators are aware of the assistance available under this Act.
Mandates that a coal operator reimburse the program administrator for services rendered if the administrator finds that such operator's total actual and attributed annual coal production exceeds 300,000 tons.
Committee on Energy and Natural Resources requested executive comment from Department of the Interior, and Office of Management and Budget.