H.R.167 - Community Reclamation Partnerships Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 167, the Community Reclamation Partnerships Act of 2025, amends the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977. It authorizes partnerships between states and non-governmental entities to reclaim and restore land and water resources adversely affected by coal mining activities before August 3, 1977.
The Act allows states to enter into memoranda of understanding with federal and state agencies to remediate mine drainage. It also establishes a framework for Community Reclaimer projects, where non-governmental entities can participate in reclamation efforts under state oversight.
The bill includes provisions for public review, project approval criteria, and financial responsibility, and it sunsets on September 30, 2032.
Expected Effects
This act will likely lead to increased reclamation of abandoned mine lands through collaborative efforts between states and community organizations. Water quality in affected areas should improve due to the focus on mine drainage remediation. The involvement of Community Reclaimers could bring additional resources and expertise to these projects.
State governments will have increased responsibility for overseeing these projects and ensuring their completion. The sunset provision ensures that the program will be re-evaluated in 2032, allowing for adjustments based on its performance.
Potential Benefits
- Environmental Remediation: Cleans up polluted land and water resources.
- Community Involvement: Engages local organizations in environmental stewardship.
- Economic Opportunities: Creates jobs in the reclamation sector.
- Improved Water Quality: Addresses mine drainage, benefiting aquatic ecosystems and downstream users.
- State Flexibility: Allows states to tailor reclamation efforts to their specific needs.
Potential Disadvantages
- State Liability: States assume liability for Community Reclaimer actions, potentially increasing financial burdens.
- Limited Scope: Focuses only on pre-1977 coal mining activities, excluding more recent impacts.
- Sunset Provision: The program's temporary nature may discourage long-term investment.
- Potential for Abuse: Requires careful oversight to prevent misuse of funds or environmental damage by Community Reclaimers.
- Administrative Burden: States face increased administrative responsibilities for project approval and oversight.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act aligns with the General Welfare Clause (Article I, Section 8) by promoting environmental cleanup and economic development. It respects states' rights by allowing them to enter into agreements and manage reclamation projects. The Act does not appear to infringe upon any individual liberties or rights protected by the Constitution or its amendments.
The delegation of authority to the Secretary and the Administrator of the EPA to approve state memoranda is consistent with established administrative law principles. The requirement for public review and comment ensures transparency and accountability, aligning with principles of due process.
Overall, the Act appears to be a valid exercise of Congressional power under the Constitution.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).