S. 544: Mining Regulatory Clarity Act

The Mining Regulatory Clarity Act aims to provide guidelines and clarity regarding hardrock mining in the United States. Here are the key components of what the bill would do:

Multiple Hardrock Mining Mill Sites

The bill allows the operators of hardrock mining sites to establish multiple mill sites. A mill site is defined as a public land location necessary for operations related to waste rock disposal or mineral production. Specifically, the following provisions are included:

• Location of Mill Sites: Operators can identify as many mill sites as needed for their mining operations within an approved plan.
• Size Limitation: Each mill site can cover a maximum of 5 acres.
• Non-Conveyance of Mineral Rights: Establishing a mill site does not give operators any mineral rights to the land.
• Impact on Pre-Existing Claims: The addition of mill sites will not affect the validity of existing mining claims or any associated rights.

Abandoned Hardrock Mine Fund

The bill establishes a fund in the U.S. Treasury called the Abandoned Hardrock Mine Fund, which is intended to support various activities related to abandoned hardrock mines. Key points include:

• Revenue Collection: Funds will be collected through fees associated with maintenance of mining claims and deposited into the fund.
• Use of Funds: The Secretary of the Interior can use money from this fund to carry out specific activities outlined in previous legislation regarding abandoned mines without needing further appropriations.

Clerical Amendments

The bill also includes several clerical changes to existing laws to ensure that they align with the new provisions laid out in this act. This includes updating references pertaining to mining laws.

Regulatory and Rights Provisions

Additionally, the bill clarifies that it does not:

• Alter existing rights of claimants for right of entry or operation on lands.
• Create new rights for claimants on lands not generally open for mining.
• Modify any previous laws that restrict or regulate mining operations.

Funding Allocation

Funds collected for the Abandoned Hardrock Mine Fund must be allocated according to the regulations set forth in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

Relevant Companies

• None found