Establishes abandoned mine reclamation program in DEP.
Upon implementation, the reclamation program will mandate that the DEP collaborates with the Department of Labor and Workforce Development to identify the most dangerous mineshafts. Moreover, the DEP will possess the authority to enter private properties for exploration and reclamation purposes, given prior notice is provided. This provision balances state intervention with property rights, ensuring that landowners are informed while also serving the public interest in terms of safety and environmental health. The establishment of the Abandoned Mine Reclamation Program Fund is an integral aspect of the bill, designed to aggregate state and federal funding necessary for carrying out reclamation efforts.
A5672, introduced in the New Jersey Assembly on May 15, 2025, establishes an Abandoned Mine Reclamation Program administered by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). The bill aims to mitigate the adverse effects of abandoned mines, such as mine subsidence and water quality degradation, that threaten public safety and environmental integrity. As part of this initiative, the bill directs the DEP to develop a statewide reclamation plan which will include comprehensive mapping of all abandoned mines and mineshafts, prioritization of reclamation projects based on risk assessment, and an estimated budget for remediation efforts.
Notably, the bill's provision for the DEP to execute reclamation plans—either by managing projects directly or by disbursing grants to local governments or private entities—brings up discussions regarding funding allocation and local autonomy. By aiming to secure federal grants and appropriate legislative funds, there may be debates on how resources are distributed and the degree of local control retained by municipalities involved in mining regions. The fund's establishment is crucial for fostering community-level initiatives while addressing environmental concerns associated with abandoned mining sites.