This bill establishes the Abandoned Mine Reclamation Program within the New Jersey Department of Transportation (DOT) to address the adverse effects of abandoned mines, such as mine subsidence and water quality degradation. The program will involve the development of a comprehensive State reclamation plan that includes mapping all abandoned mines, identifying those that pose the greatest threats, and ranking reclamation projects based on urgency and cost. The DOT will have the authority to enter properties for exploratory work and reclamation efforts, ensuring that property owners are notified in advance and that their rights are respected.

Additionally, the bill creates the Abandoned Mine Reclamation Program Fund, which will be dedicated to financing reclamation projects and supporting the program's administration. This fund will be sourced from federal grants, state appropriations, and other donations. The DOT is tasked with establishing a grant program to distribute funds for mine reclamation projects, including setting eligibility criteria and application procedures. The bill mandates that the DOT adopt necessary rules and regulations to implement its provisions, with an immediate effective date upon enactment.