Rep. Salazar: Much Needed Mining Reform Bill Passes House

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman John T. Salazar applauded the House passage of H.R. 2262, the Hardrock Mining and Reclamation Act of 2007.  H.R. 2262 was introduced this Congress by Rep. Nick Rahall (D-WV), Chairman of the House Committee on Natural Resources, and provides much needed reform to our nation’s hard rock mining laws. 

“In the 135 years since its passage, the National Mining Law of 1872 has not been updated once,” said Congressman Salazar.  “Colorado has seen first hand the result of abandoned mines on the landscape, in polluted waters, and left over mine waste.”

H.R. 2262 reforms the 135 year old law in several areas, including: 

• Establishes environmental protection standards, including reclamation, in connection with mineral activities on mining claims, millsite claims, or tunnel site claims;
• Establishes the Abandoned Locatable Minerals Mine Reclamation Fund and the Locatable Minerals Community Impact Assistance Fund;
• Requires the Secretaries to inspect and monitor mineral activities to ensure compliance with the environmental protection requirements of this Act;
• Declares the Multiple Minerals Development Act, and specified federal law regarding unpatented mining claims.

Additionally, much of the revenue generated from H.R. 2262 will go into the Good Samaritan programs for abandoned mine cleanups. 

Congress has tried to amend the Mining Law of 1872 several times in the previous 135 years, including 12 years ago when both the House and the Senate passed reform bills, but Congress adjourned before an agreement could be reached between the two chambers. 

“I have heard from constituents in Crested Butte, the Summitville area, and throughout Colorado who want to protect our precious water resources,” concluded Salazar.  “After 135 years, I am glad the House has finally decided to act and I urge the Senate to do likewise.”