BGOV Bill Analysis: H.R. 167, Abandoned Mine Cleanup

State and community efforts to reclaim abandoned coal mines would be expanded through fiscal 2032 under H.R. 167.

The bill would allow states and federal agencies to enter into agreements to reduce water pollution from abandoned mines. It would also allow states to assume liability for cleanup projects by third parties.

The bill aims to spur nongovernmental organization participation in abandoned mine cleanup by alleviating potential liability issues, according to an April 2024 news release from bill sponsor Rep. Darin LaHood (R-Ill.) on a nearly identical bill from the 118th Congress (H.R. 6233; BGOV Bill Summary). ...