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Orphaned Well Cleanup and Jobs Act: Environmental restoration authorization

This Act amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to establish a federal program and authorize billions in grants to states and Tribal Governments for permanently plugging, remediating, and reclaiming orphaned oil and gas wells. It prioritizes public health and environmental safety, mandates fees for idled wells on federal land, and includes requirements for using domestic materials.
Key points
Cleanup Funding: A total of $8 billion is authorized for federal, state, and Tribal programs to permanently plug and reclaim orphaned wells.
Environmental and Health Focus: Programs prioritize wells based on public health, safety, and potential environmental harm, including reducing methane emissions and water contamination.
Job Creation: States receiving initial grants must describe how the funds will be used to employ individuals who lost employment during the period beginning March 1, 2020.
Idle Well Fees: New, escalating annual fees ranging from $500 to $7,500 are imposed on operators of idle wells on federal lands.
Buy American Requirement: Projects funded by the Act must use iron, steel, and steel manufactured products produced in the United States.
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Expired
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Additional Information
Print number: 117_HR_2415
Sponsor: Rep. Leger Fernandez, Teresa [D-NM-3]
Process start date: 2021-04-08
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Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Orphaned Well Cleanup and Jobs Act of 2021

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 117_HR_2415.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2021-04-08.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Cleanup Funding: A total of $8 billion is authorized for federal, state, and Tribal programs to permanently plug and reclaim orphaned wells.
  • Environmental and Health Focus: Programs prioritize wells based on public health, safety, and potential environmental harm, including reducing methane emissions and water contamination.
  • Job Creation: States receiving initial grants must describe how the funds will be used to employ individuals who lost employment during the period beginning March 1, 2020.
  • Idle Well Fees: New, escalating annual fees ranging from $500 to $7,500 are imposed on operators of idle wells on federal lands.
  • Buy American Requirement: Projects funded by the Act must use iron, steel, and steel manufactured products produced in the United States.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. Leger Fernandez, Teresa [D-NM-3].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 464.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2026-01-02.

CATEGORIES

Environment Public Investments Labor