Hardrock Mining and Reclamation Act of 2009

[chasinternet]

http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/z?c111:H.R.699:
http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/bdquery/z?d111:h.r.00699:
‘‘Hardrock Mining and Reclamation Act of 2009’’ H.R. 299
introduced 1/27/2009

The buzz in enviro circles and the media is increasing on this one. It is currently referred to the Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources.

We should try to be vigilant towards anything remotely related to the larger issue of mineral withdrawal lands, "public lands, not reserved for public uses" for purposes of R.S. 2477 rights-of-way. RS 2477 is often used by the off-road community for access.

I notice there is some language in H.R. 299 regarding reclamation and the removal of roads. The "removal of roads" language seems a bit vague to me regarding newly created roads for mineral exploration but not preexisting roads. Any bill mentioning Federal Land Policy Management Act (FLPMA) has to be monitored for language getting slipped in - especially when the enviros/media are talking a bill up.

My hope is H.R. 299 will be killed by mineral interests. It has some nasty stuff in it. It will also raise fees and increase regulation for people that hold claims - as many individuals do that have cabins in remote areas.