This bill establishes two distinct programs for the reclamation of abandoned mines in New Jersey, one under the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the other under the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). The DOT will manage the Abandoned Mine Reclamation Transportation and Utility Protection Program, which aims to protect transportation and public utility infrastructure from the dangers posed by abandoned mines. Concurrently, the DEP will oversee the Abandoned Mine Reclamation Environment Protection Program, focusing on safeguarding environmental infrastructure and water quality. Both programs will develop reclamation plans that prioritize projects based on the level of threat posed by abandoned mines and will be supported by dedicated funds and grant programs for financing reclamation efforts.

The bill also outlines the rights of department employees to enter properties for exploratory work related to reclamation, ensuring that property owners are notified and that such entries do not constitute acts of condemnation or trespass. It mandates that the DOT and DEP share their findings, including risk assessments, with property owners and prohibits them from requiring financial contributions from property owners for the reclamation plans. Additionally, the legislation establishes two special, nonlapsing funds for the DOT and DEP, dedicated solely to financing mine reclamation projects, and requires both departments to apply for federal funding to support their initiatives. Overall, the bill aims to address safety and environmental concerns associated with abandoned mines through structured reclamation efforts.