Pilot Program: Cleaning Up Abandoned Mines Without Environmental Liability.
This new law establishes a 7-year pilot program allowing non-liable parties, known as "Good Samaritans," to clean up pollution at abandoned hardrock mine sites without facing legal liability for historical environmental damage under major federal laws. The goal is to accelerate the remediation of toxic mine residue, such as acid mine drainage, directly improving local water quality and public safety in affected communities.
Key points
Enables "Good Samaritans" (unrelated to the original pollution) to undertake remediation projects at abandoned hardrock mines.
Participants operating under an EPA permit are shielded from liability and permitting requirements under the Clean Water Act and CERCLA for authorized cleanup activities.
The program is a 7-year pilot, limited to 15 permits, focusing on measurable progress toward improving water and soil quality.
Special funds are created to support these cleanup efforts, including using proceeds from reprocessing historic mine residue to offset costs.
Became Law
Citizen Poll