The bill amends several sections of the North Dakota Century Code concerning the reclamation of abandoned surface mines. It defines an "abandoned mine reclamation plan" to include the legal authority and programmatic capability to perform reclamation work as required by the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977. Additionally, it establishes a state abandoned mine reclamation fund and a special fund for the restoration of ecosystems affected by abandoned mines, detailing the sources of revenue for these funds and the specific purposes for which the funds may be used. Notably, the bill specifies that funds from the new special account may be used for the treatment of acid mine drainage, prevention of subsidence, and control of coal mine fires.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the priorities for the expenditure of funds in the abandoned mine reclamation program, emphasizing the protection of public health and safety from the adverse effects of past coal mining practices. It also expands eligibility for reclamation to include lands affected by noncoal mining practices, provided that certain conditions are met, such as certification from the United States Secretary of the Interior. The amendments aim to enhance the reclamation process and ensure that both coal and noncoal mining impacts are addressed effectively.

Statutes affected:
PREFILED: 38-14.2-02, 38-14.2-04, 38-14.2-06, 38-14.2-07
Adopted by the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee: 38-14.2-02, 38-14.2-04, 38-14.2-06, 38-14.2-07
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 38-14.2-02, 38-14.2-04, 38-14.2-06, 38-14.2-07
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Representative Porter: 38-14.2-02, 38-14.2-04, 38-14.2-06, 38-14.2-07
Enrollment: 38-14.2-02, 38-14.2-04, 38-14.2-06, 38-14.2-07
INTRODUCED: 38-14.2-02, 38-14.2-04, 38-14.2-06, 38-14.2-07