A bill to allow certain Federal minerals to be mined consistent with the Bull Mountains Mining Plan Modification, and for other purposes.
Impact
If enacted, SB362 would significantly enhance the accessibility of federal coal reserves, potentially providing an economic boost to local communities through job creation and increased mining activity. The authorization for this mining can affect local economies reliant on mining while also influencing the energy market by potentially increasing the supply of coal. This could also shape the operational landscape for mining companies in the region, allowing for streamlined processes tied to federal land usage.
Summary
Senate Bill 362 is a legislative proposal aimed at permitting the mining of certain federal minerals in Montana, specifically linked to the Bull Mountains Mining Plan Modification. This bill seeks to authorize the extraction of federal coal reserves associated with Federal Coal Lease MTM 97988. The proposal outlines specific parcels of federal land, totaling approximately 800 acres in Musselshell County, where mining activities are to be conducted consistent with the stipulated mining plan modification. The bill mandates that the Secretary of the Interior must approve this plan without modification or delay within 30 days of the bill's enactment.
Contention
The bill may face contention from environmental groups and local residents concerned about the ecological implications of increased mining activities. Critics might argue that expanding mining operations could lead to environmental degradation, affecting air quality and disrupting local ecosystems. There are also potential concerns regarding the long-term sustainability of relying on coal as an energy source, particularly given the national shift towards renewable energy. Hence, the discussions surrounding SB362 could highlight the balance between economic interests and environmental stewardship.
Permitting for Mining Needs Act of 2023 This bill expedites the review of mining projects on federal lands and limits judicial review of mining projects. For example, the bill expands the federal permitting and review processes under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act for critical minerals. Under the act, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the U.S. Forest Service, to the maximum extent practicable, must complete the federal permitting and review processes related to critical mineral mines on federal lands with maximum efficiency and effectiveness. This bill expands this process to include all minerals as defined by the bill, not only critical minerals. The bill also establishes deadlines for completing the review of mining projects under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969. In addition, the bill also expands the meaning of covered projects under the Fixing America's Surface Transportation (FAST) Act to include (1) certain mineral production projects, and (2) certain actions taken by the Department of Defense. Such projects qualify for expedited environmental review. It also establishes requirements to expedite the review or authorization of certain mineral projects, such as (1) mineral exploration activities with a surface disturbance of no more than five acres of public lands, (2) ancillary mining activities, and (3) uranium projects. Finally, the bill limits judicial review of a permit, license, or approval issued by a lead agency for a mining project by requiring the filing of claims within a certain time period.
A bill to authorize the Secretary of the Treasury to make payments to the Quapaw Nation and certain members of the Quapaw Nation in accordance with the recommendation of the United States Court of Federal Claims, and for other purposes.
A bill to enhance the economic and national security of the United States by securing a reliable supply of critical minerals and rare earth elements through trade agreements and strategic partnerships.