H.R.3713 - Legacy Mine Cleanup Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 3713, the Legacy Mine Cleanup Act of 2025, aims to establish the Office of Mountains, Deserts, and Plains within the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The primary goal is to coordinate and improve cleanup efforts at legacy mine sites, particularly in Indian country and on Navajo Nation lands affected by uranium contamination. The bill outlines specific duties for the Administrator of the EPA, including creating a priority mine list and developing interagency plans for uranium contamination cleanup.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely lead to increased focus and resources dedicated to cleaning up legacy mine sites. This includes improved coordination between federal agencies, states, and tribal governments. The establishment of best practices and the prioritization of cleanup actions could result in more efficient and effective remediation efforts.
Potential Benefits 4/5
- Improved environmental quality in areas affected by legacy mines.
- Enhanced public health, especially for communities living near contaminated sites.
- Increased economic opportunities for small businesses involved in cleanup activities.
- Better coordination among federal, state, and tribal entities in addressing mine cleanup.
- Development and dissemination of best practices for mine site remediation.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased bureaucracy and administrative overhead with the creation of a new office.
- The act relies on existing authorities of the Administrator, potentially limiting its impact if those authorities are insufficient.
- The effectiveness of the act depends on adequate appropriations and funding from potentially responsible parties.
- The act's focus on specific regions (mountains, deserts, and plains) might divert resources from other areas with environmental concerns.
- Potential delays in cleanup actions due to the need for interagency coordination and consultation.
Constitutional Alignment 4/5
The bill aligns with the General Welfare Clause of the Constitution, as it aims to improve environmental quality and public health. Congress has the power to enact legislation necessary and proper for carrying out its enumerated powers, including regulating commerce and protecting the environment. The bill's focus on Indian country also aligns with the federal government's trust responsibility to Native American tribes.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to citizens. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).