OSMFinal Rule
Rescission of Portions of Permanent Program Performance Standards Regulating Subsidence Controls for Underground Mines
EnergyEnvironmentHousing
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Summary
The federal government is removing some safety rules that required underground mines to control ground collapse and subsidence (when the land above a mine sinks). This change affects how mining companies operate and could impact the stability of land in mining areas.
Key Points
- 1The Office of Surface Mining (OSM) is eliminating certain permanent safety standards that required underground mines to prevent or control subsidence damage
- 2This affects underground coal mines and other mineral mining operations that must now follow different or fewer subsidence control requirements
- 3Property owners and communities above underground mines may face increased risk of ground collapse, sinkholes, and structural damage to buildings
- 4Mining companies will have more flexibility in their operations but less obligation to prevent land subsidence problems
- 5This rule became effective in January 2026 and changes long-standing federal mine safety standards
Impact Assessment
If you are a homeowner in a mining region, this means reduced federal oversight of underground mine subsidence could increase your risk of property damage from ground collapse.
Impact Level
Significant
Geographic Scope
National
Compliance Cost
Minimal
Who is Affected
Energy CompaniesHomeownersState GovernmentsWorkers/Laborers
Key Dates
Published
January 27, 2026
Regulatory Connections
Amends CFR Sections
30 CFR Part 78030 CFR Part 817
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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