A bill to amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to improve water quality on abandoned or inactive mined land.
Authorizes remediating parties to apply for such permits at abandoned or inactive mined land from which there is or may be a discharge of pollutants to U.S. waters. Prohibits such a party from applying for a permit if the party owns the land unless the land was purchased for the express purpose of remediating pollutant discharges related to past mining activities to improve water quality.
Sets forth application requirements. Authorizes the Administrator to issue a permit if: (1) relative to the resources available to the remediating party for the proposed activity, such party has made a reasonable effort to identify current land owners, lessees, and claimants and other persons whose activities may have contributed to the discharge of pollutants; (2) no identifiable owner or operator exists; and (3) the applicant's remediation plan demonstrates that it will result in improved water quality to the maximum extent practicable.
Authorizes enforcement actions against parties who fail to comply with permit conditions. Provides for permit termination under certain conditions and absolves parties whose permits are terminated from enforcement liability for any remaining discharges.
Makes remediation plans under permits issued under this Act eligible for certain grants.
Terminates the Administrator's authority to issue permits under this Act ten years after this Act's enactment.
Introduced in Senate
Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR S13166-13169)
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Environment and Public Works.
Committee on Environment and Public Works Subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife, and Water. Hearings held. With printed Hearing: S.Hrg. 106-955.
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