OSMFinal Rule

Pennsylvania Regulatory Program

EnergyEnvironment

Summary

This regulation from the federal Office of Surface Mining updates Pennsylvania's rules for controlling environmental damage from coal mining operations. It sets standards for how mining companies must manage water quality, restore land after mining, and protect communities from mining-related pollution.

Key Points

  • 1Pennsylvania coal mining companies must follow updated federal standards for protecting water supplies and preventing acid mine drainage
  • 2Mining operators are required to restore mined land to productive uses, such as forests or wildlife habitats, rather than leaving it as wasteland
  • 3The regulation increases monitoring and inspection requirements to ensure companies follow environmental protection rules
  • 4Communities near coal mines gain stronger protections against pollution runoff and other environmental hazards from mining activities
  • 5Mining companies have specific deadlines and procedures to follow when applying for permits to begin new mining operations

Key Dates

Published

July 28, 2025

Comment Deadline

June 23, 2023

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This summary is for informational purposes only. It may not capture all nuances of the regulation. Always refer to the official text for authoritative information.

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