S. 859 · In committee · Public Lands and Natural Resources

Mining Waste, Fraud, and Abuse Prevention Act of 2025

What it does

Restricts patent issuance for mining claims on public lands to applications filed on or before September 30, 1994, that fully complied with all requirements by that date.
Establishes a Hardrock Minerals Reclamation Fund and requires an abandoned mine land reclamation fee on hardrock mining operations to fund remediation of abandoned mines.
Requires operators to obtain permits for exploration and mining activities on federal lands and to post financial assurances for reclamation of disturbed areas.
Mandates tribal consultation before approving mining permits on federal lands and requires compliance with state law and inspection and monitoring of mineral activities.
Establishes a 12.5 percent net smelter royalty on hardrock minerals extracted from federal lands, with relief mechanisms and federal enforcement of royalty payments.

Mar 12, 2025: Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. Hearings held. Hearings printed: S.Hrg. 119-46.

Committee: Senate Energy and Natural Resources