Mining Federal Minerals in Montana

Official: A bill to allow certain Federal minerals to be mined consistent with the Bull Mountains Mining Plan Modification, and for other purposes.

IntroducedN/A

EnergyMiningEnvironmental assessment, monitoring, researchMontana

Why This Matters

This bill lets companies mine federal coal in Montana according to an existing plan. It aims to streamline the process for mining on specific federal land.

If you work in the mining industry in Montana, this bill could create job opportunities in the next year.

Affects: Mining companies and workers in Musselshell County, Montana, will be directly affected by this bill.

Summary

This bill authorizes coal to be mined on approximately 800 acres of federal land in Musselshell County, Montana. Specifically, it allows all federal coal reserves in such federal land and leased under Federal Coal Lease MTM 97988 to be mined in accordance with the 2020 Bull Mountains Mining Plan Modification. The Bull Mountains Mine is operated by Signal Peak Energy. This bill directs the Department of the Interior, without modification or delay, to approve the Bull Mountains Mining Plan Modification to the extent necessary to mine such land.

What changes is this bill making?

1. This bill allows mining of certain federal coal reserves in Montana. 2. It specifically authorizes the mining plan approved in 2020. 3. The mining is permitted on about 800 acres of federal land. 4. The Secretary of the Interior must approve the mining plan quickly. 5. Mining can continue for one year after the bill becomes law.

Who is affected?

Mining companies and workers in Musselshell County, Montana, will be directly affected by this bill.