Montana Regulatory Program
What happened
The Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSM) approved an amendment to the Montana regulatory program, signed by Donald Trump. This amendment, initiated by Montana's House Bill 616 (HB 616), permits the use of predictive modeling alongside monitoring data in bond release applications for compliance with reclamation plans. Additionally, Montana may retain a portion of a bond if disturbed areas are contributing suspended solids. The effective date is August 14, 2026.
Why it matters
This change could streamline the process for coal mining companies to prove environmental compliance after reclamation by incorporating modern data analysis. It also provides a mechanism for Montana to ensure environmental protection by allowing bond retention for areas contributing to water pollution. The policy impacts how reclamation efforts are assessed and enforced in Montana.
Who it affects
- ›Montana coal mining permittees
- ›Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSM)
- ›Montana Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ)
The receipts are official. The summary is ours.
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