This bill aims to amend and streamline the regulations surrounding the use of diesel-powered equipment in West Virginia's underground coal mines by aligning state laws with federal Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) standards. Key changes include the removal of the Director's authority to impose additional requirements beyond those set forth in federal regulations, specifically under 30 CFR Part 7, Subpart E. The bill eliminates the need for site-specific testing of diesel equipment once it has been approved federally, and it repeals several existing sections that previously mandated additional approval processes and emissions control measures.

Furthermore, the bill introduces new sections that clarify the approval process for diesel power packages, emissions testing, and maintenance requirements. It specifies that compliance with federal standards will suffice for state approval, thereby exempting compliant diesel-powered equipment from state-specific regulations. The proposed changes are designed to reduce regulatory burdens on coal mine operators while maintaining safety and health protections for miners. The act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 22A-2A-308, 22A-2A-309, 22A-2A-310, 22A-2A-401, 22A-2A-1002, 22A-2A-1003, 22A-2A-1004, 22A-2A-1005, 22A-2A-1006, 22A-2A-402, 22A-2A-403, 22A-2A-404, 22A-2A-405