118 S2781 RS: Good Samaritan Remediation of Abandoned Hardrock Mines Act of 2023
U.S. Senate
2024-01-25
text/xml
EN
Pursuant to Title 17 Section 105 of the United States Code, this file is not subject to copyright protection and is in the public domain.
II
Calendar No. 312
118th CONGRESS
2d Session
S. 2781
IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES
September 13, 2023
Mr. Heinrich (for himself, Mr. Risch, Mr. Hickenlooper, Mr. Crapo, Ms. Sinema, Mr. Daines, Mr. Luján, Mr. Barrasso, Mr. Kelly, Ms. Lummis, Mr. Tester, Mr. Thune, Ms. Cortez Masto, Mr. Cramer, Ms. Rosen, Mr. Boozman, Mr. Bennet, Mr. Sullivan, Mr. Wyden, Ms. Murkowski, Mr. Merkley, Mr. Braun, Ms. Stabenow, Mr. Romney, Mr. Whitehouse, Ms. Ernst, Mr. Padilla, and Mr. Hoeven) introduced the following bill; which was read twice and referred to the Committee on Environment and Public Works
January 25, 2024
Reported by Mr. Carper, with an amendment
Strike out all after the enacting clause and insert the part printed in italic
A BILL
To promote remediation of abandoned hardrock mines, and for other purposes.
1.

Short title
This Act may be cited as the “Good Samaritan Remediation of Abandoned Hardrock Mines Act of 2023”.
2.

Definitions
In this Act:
(1)

Abandoned mine site
(A)

In general
The term abandoned mine site means an abandoned or inactive hardrock mine site and any facility associated with an abandoned or inactive hardrock mine site—
(i)
that was used for the production of a mineral other than coal conducted on Federal land under sections 2319 through 2352 of the Revised Statutes (commonly known as the “Mining Law of 1872”; 30 U.S.C. 22 et seq.) or on non-Federal land; and
(ii)
for which, based on information supplied by the Good Samaritan after review of publicly available data and after review of other information in the possession of the Administrator, the Administrator or, in the case of a site on land owned by the United States, the Federal land management agency, determines that no responsible owner or operator has been identified—
(I)
who is potentially liable for, or has been required to perform or pay for, environmental remediation activities under applicable law; and
(II)
other than, in the case of a mine site located on land owned by the United States, a Federal land management agency that has not been involved in mining activity on that land, except that the approval of a plan of operations under the hardrock mining regulations of the applicable Federal land management agency shall not be considered involvement in the mining activity.
(B)

Inclusion
The term abandoned mine site includes a hardrock mine site (including associated facilities) that was previously the subject of a completed response action under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9601 et seq.) or a similar Federal and State reclamation or cleanup program, including the remediation of mine-scarred land under the brownfields revitalization program under section 104(k) of that Act (42 U.S.C. 9604(k)).
(C)

Exclusions
The term abandoned mine site does not include a mine site (including associated facilities)—
(i)
in a temporary shutdown or cessation;
(ii)
included on the National Priorities List developed by the President in accordance with section 105(a)(8)(B) of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9605(a)(8)(B)) or proposed for inclusion on that list;
(iii)
that is the subject of a planned or ongoing response action under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9601 et seq.) or a similar Federal and State reclamation or cleanup program;
(iv)
that has a responsible owner or operator; or
(v)
that actively mined or processed minerals after December 11, 1980.
(2)

Administrator
The term Administrator means the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency.
(3)

Applicable water quality standards
The term applicable water quality standards means the water quality standards promulgated by the Administrator or adopted by a State or Indian tribe and approved by the Administrator pursuant to the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq.).
(4)

Cooperating person
(A)

In general
The term cooperating person means any person that is named by the Good Samaritan in the permit application as a cooperating entity.
(B)

Exclusions
The term cooperating person does not include—
(i)
a responsible owner or operator with respect to the abandoned mine site described in the permit application; or
(ii)
a person that had a role in the creation of historic mine residue at the abandoned mine site described in the permit application.
(5)

Covered permit
The term covered permit means—
(A)
a Good Samaritan permit; and
(B)
an investigative sampling permit.
(6)

Federal land management agency
The term Federal land management agency means any Federal agency authorized by law or Executive order to exercise jurisdiction, custody, or control over land owned by the United States.
(7)

Good Samaritan
The term Good Samaritan means a person that, with respect to historic mine residue, as determined by the Administrator—
(A)
is not a past or current owner or operator of—
(i)
the abandoned mine site at which the historic mine residue is located; or
(ii)
a portion of that abandoned mine site;
(B)
had no role in the creation of the historic mine residue; and
(C)
is not potentially liable under any Federal, State, Tribal, or local law for the remediation, treatment, or control of the historic mine residue.
(8)

Good Samaritan permit
The term Good Samaritan permit means a permit granted by the Administrator under section 4(a)(1).
(9)

Historic mine residue
(A)

In general
The term historic mine residue means mine residue or any condition at an abandoned mine site resulting from hardrock mining activities.
(B)

Inclusions
The term historic mine residue includes—
(i)
previously mined ores and minerals other than coal that contribute to acid mine drainage or other pollution;
(ii)
equipment (including materials in equipment);
(iii)
any tailings, heap leach piles, dump leach piles, waste rock, overburden, slag piles, or other waste or material resulting from any extraction, beneficiation, or other processing activity that occurred during the active operation of an abandoned mine site;
(iv)
any acidic or otherwise polluted flow in surface water or groundwater that originates from, or is pooled and contained in, an inactive or abandoned mine site, such as underground workings, open pits, in-situ leaching operations, ponds, or impoundments;
(v)
any hazardous substance (as defined in section 101 of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9601));
(vi)
any pollutant or contaminant (as defined in section 101 of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9601)); and
(vii)
any pollutant (as defined in section 502 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1362)).
(10)

Indian tribe
The term Indian tribe has the meaning given the term in section 518(h) of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1377(h)).
(11)

Investigative sampling permit
The term investigative sampling permit means a permit granted by the Administrator under section 4(d)(1).
(12)

Person
The term person means any entity described in—
(A)
section 502(5) of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1362(5)); and
(B)
section 101(21) of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9601(21)).
(13)

Remediation
(A)

In general
The term remediation means any action taken to investigate, characterize, or cleanup, in whole or in part, a discharge, release, or threat of release of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant into the environment at or from an abandoned mine site, or to otherwise protect and improve human health and the environment.
(B)

Inclusion
The term remediation includes any action to remove, treat, or contain historic mine residue to prevent, minimize, or reduce—
(i)
the release or threat of release of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant that would harm human health or the environment; or
(ii)
a migration or discharge of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant that would harm human health or the environment.
(C)

Exclusion
The term remediation does not include any action that requires plugging, opening, or otherwise altering the portal or adit of the abandoned mine site.
(14)

Reservation
The term reservation has the meaning given the term Indian country in section 1151 of title 18, United States Code.
(15)

Responsible owner or operator
The term responsible owner or operator means a person that is—
(A)
(i)
legally responsible under section 301 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1311) for a discharge that originates from an abandoned mine site; and
(ii)
financially able to comply with each requirement described in that section; or
(B)
(i)
a present or past owner or operator or other person that is liable with respect to a release or threat of release of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant associated with the historic mine residue at or from an abandoned mine site under section 104, 106, 107, or 113 of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9604, 9606, 9607, 9613); and
(ii)
financially able to comply with each requirement described in those sections, as applicable.
3.

Scope
Nothing in this Act—
(1)
except as provided in section 4(n), reduces any existing liability under Federal, State, or local law;
(2)
except as provided in section 4(n), releases any person from liability under Federal, State, or local law, except in compliance with this Act;
(3)
authorizes the conduct of any mining or processing other than the conduct of any processing of previously mined ores, minerals, wastes, or other materials that is authorized by a Good Samaritan permit;
(4)
imposes liability on the United States or a Federal land management agency pursuant to section 107 of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9607) or section 301 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1311); or
(5)
relieves the United States or any Federal land management agency from any liability under section 107 of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9607) or section 301 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1311) that exists apart from any action undertaken pursuant to this Act.
4.

Abandoned mine site Good Samaritan pilot project authorization
(a)

Establishment
(1)

In general
The Administrator shall establish a pilot program under which the Administrator shall grant not more than 15 Good Samaritan permits to carry out projects to remediate historic mine residue at any portions of abandoned mine sites in accordance with this Act.
(2)

Oversight of permits
The Administrator may oversee the remediation project under paragraph (1), and any action taken by the applicable Good Samaritan or any cooperating person under the applicable Good Samaritan permit, for the duration of the Good Samaritan permit, as the Administrator determines to be necessary to review the status of the project.
(3)

Sunset
(A)

In general
Except as provided in subparagraph (B), the pilot program described in paragraph (1) shall terminate on the date that is 7 years after the date of enactment of this Act.
(B)

Exception
Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the Administrator may grant a Good Samaritan permit pursuant to this Act after the date identified in subparagraph (A) if the application for the Good Samaritan permit—
(i)
was submitted not later than 180 days before that date; and
(ii)
was completed in accordance with subsection (c) by not later than 7 years after the date of enactment of this Act.
(C)

Effect on certain permits
Any Good Samaritan permit granted by the deadline prescribed in subparagraph (A) or (B), as applicable, that is in effect on the date that is 7 years after the date of enactment of this Act shall remain in effect after that date in accordance with—
(i)
the terms and conditions of the Good Samaritan permit; and
(ii)
this Act.
(b)

Good Samaritan permit eligibility
(1)

In general
To be eligible to receive a Good Samaritan permit to carry out a project to remediate an abandoned mine site, a person shall demonstrate that—
(A)
the abandoned mine site that is the subject of the application for a Good Samaritan permit is located in the United States;
(B)
the purpose of the proposed project is the remediation at that abandoned mine site of historic mine residue;
(C)
the proposed activities are designed to result in the partial, interim, or complete remediation of historic mine residue at the abandoned mine site;
(D)
the proposed project poses a low risk to the environment;
(E)
to the satisfaction of the Administrator, the person—
(i)
possesses, or has the ability to secure, the financial and other resources necessary—
(I)
to complete the permitted work, as determined by the Administrator; and
(II)
to address any contingencies identified in the Good Samaritan permit application described in subsection (c);
(ii)
possesses the proper and appropriate experience and capacity to complete the permitted work; and
(iii)
will complete the permitted work; and
(F)
the person is a Good Samaritan with respect to the historic mine residue proposed to be covered by the Good Samaritan permit.
(2)

Identification of all responsible owners or operators
(A)

In general
A Good Samaritan shall make reasonable and diligent efforts to identify, from a review of publicly available information in land records or on internet websites of Federal, State, and local regulatory authorities, all responsible owners or operators of an abandoned mine site proposed to be remediated by the Good Samaritan under this section.
(B)

Existing responsible owner or operator
If the Administrator determines, based on information provided by a Good Samaritan or otherwise, that a responsible owner or operator exists for an abandoned mine site proposed to be remediated by the Good Samaritan, the Administrator shall deny the application for a Good Samaritan permit.
(c)

Application for permits
To obtain a Good Samaritan permit, a person shall submit to the Administrator an application, signed by the person and any cooperating person, that provides, to the extent known or reasonably discoverable by the person on the date on which the application is submitted—
(1)
a description of the abandoned mine site (including the boundaries of the abandoned mine site) proposed to be covered by the Good Samaritan permit;
(2)
a description of all parties proposed to be involved in the remediation project, including any cooperating person and each member of an applicable corporation, association, partnership, consortium, joint venture, commercial entity, or nonprofit association;
(3)
evidence that the person has or will acquire all legal rights or the authority necessary to enter the relevant abandoned mine site and perform the remediation described in the application;
(4)
a detailed description of the historic mine residue to be remediated;
(5)
a detailed description of the expertise and experience of the person and the resources available to the person to successfully implement and complete the remediation plan under paragraph (7);
(6)
to the satisfaction of the Administrator and subject to subsection (d), a description of the baseline environmental conditions, including potentially affected surface water quality and hydrological conditions, affected by the historic mine residue to be remediated that includes—
(A)
the nature and extent of any adverse impact on the water quality of any body of water caused by the drainage of historic mine residue or other discharges from the abandoned mine site;
(B)
the flow rate and concentration of any drainage of historic mine residue or other discharge from the abandoned mine site in any body of water that has resulted in an adverse impact described in subparagraph (A); and
(C)
any other release or threat of release of historic mine residue that has resulted in an adverse impact to public health or the environment;
(7)
subject to subsection (d), a remediation plan for the abandoned mine site that describes—
(A)
the nature and scope of the proposed remediation activities, including—
(i)
any historic mine residue to be addressed by the remediation plan; and
(ii)
a description of the goals of the remediation including, if applicable, with respect to—
(I)
the reduction or prevention of a release, threat of release, or discharge to surface waters; or
(II)
other appropriate goals relating to water or soil;
(B)
each activity that the person proposes to take that is designed—
(i)
to improve or enhance water quality or site-specific soil quality relevant to the historic mine residue addressed by the remediation plan, including making measurable progress toward achieving applicable water quality standards; or
(ii)
to otherwise protect human health and the environment (including through the prevention of a release, discharge, or threat of release to water or soil);
(C)
the monitoring or other form of assessment that will be undertaken by the person to evaluate the success of the activities described in subparagraph (A) during and after the remediation, with respect to the baseline conditions, as described in paragraph (6);
(D)
to the satisfaction of the Administrator, detailed engineering plans for the project;
(E)
detailed plans for any proposed recycling or reprocessing of historic mine residue to be conducted by the person (including a description of how all proposed recycling or reprocessing activities contribute to the remediation of the abandoned mine site); and
(F)
identification of any proposed contractor that will perform any remediation activity;
(8)
subject to subsection (d), a schedule for the work to be carried out under the project, including a schedule for periodic reporting by the person on the remediation of the abandoned mine site;
(9)
a health and safety plan that is specifically designed for mining remediation work;
(10)
a specific contingency plan that—
(A)
includes provisions on response and notification to Federal, State, and local authorities with jurisdiction over downstream waters that have the potential to be impacted by an unplanned release or discharge of hazardous substances, pollutants, or contaminants; and
(B)
is designed to respond to unplanned adverse events (such as potential fluid release that may result from addressing pooled water or hydraulic pressure situations), including the sudden release of historic mine residue;
(11)
subject to subsection (d), a project budget and description of financial resources that demonstrate that the permitted work, including any operation and maintenance, will be completed;
(12)
subject to subsection (d), information demonstrating that the applicant has the financial resources to carry out the remediation (including any long-term monitoring that may be required by the Good Samaritan permit) or the ability to secure an appropriate third-party financial assurance, as determined by the Administrator, to ensure completion of the permitted work, including any long-term operations and maintenance of remediation activities that may be—
(A)
proposed in the application for the Good Samaritan permit; or
(B)
required by the Administrator as a condition of granting the permit;
(13)
subject to subsection (d), a detailed plan for any required operation and maintenance of any remediation, including a timeline, if necessary;
(14)
subject to subsection (d), a description of any planned post-remediation monitoring, if necessary; and
(15)
subject to subsection (d), any other appropriate information, as determined by the Administrator or the applicant.
(d)

Investigative sampling
(1)

Investigative sampling permits
The Administrator may grant an investigative sampling permit for a period determined by the Administrator to authorize a Good Samaritan to conduct investigative sampling of historic mine residue, soil, or water to determine—
(A)
baseline conditions; and
(B)
whether the Good Samaritan—
(i)
is willing to perform further remediation to address the historic mine residue; and
(ii)
will proceed with a permit conversion under subsection (e)(1).
(2)

Number of permits
(A)

Limitation
Subject to subparagraph (B), the Administrator may grant not more than 15 investigative sampling permits.
(B)

Applicability to converted permits
An investigative sampling permit that is not converted to a Good Samaritan permit pursuant to paragraph (6) may be eligible for reissuance by the Administrator subject to the overall total of not more than 15 investigative sampling permits allowed at any 1 time described in subparagraph (A).
(3)

Application
If a Good Samaritan proposes to conduct investigative sampling, the Good Samaritan shall submit to the Administrator an investigative sampling permit application that contains, to the satisfaction of the Administrator—
(A)
each description required under paragraphs (1), (2), (5), and (6) of subsection (c);
(B)
the evidence required under subsection (c)(3);
(C)
each plan required under paragraphs (9) and (10) of subsection (c); and
(D)
a detailed plan of the investigative sampling.
(4)

Requirements
(A)

In general
If a person submits an application that proposes only investigative sampling of historic mine residue, soil, or water that only includes the requirements described in paragraph (1), the Administrator may only grant an investigative sampling permit that authorizes the person only to carry out the plan of investigative sampling of historic mine residue, soil, or water, as described in the investigative sampling permit application under paragraph (3).
(B)

Reprocessing
An investigative sampling permit—
(i)
shall not authorize a Good Samaritan or cooperating person to conduct any reprocessing of material; and
(ii)
may authorize metallurgical testing of historic mine residue to determine whether reprocessing under subsection (f)(4)(B) is feasible.
(C)

Requirements relating to samples
In conducting investigative sampling of historic mine residue, soil, or water, a Good Samaritan shall—
(i)
collect samples that are representative of the conditions present at the abandoned mine site that is the subject of the investigative sampling permit; and
(ii)
retain publicly available records of all sampling events for a period of not less than 3 years.
(5)

Post-sampling remediation
(A)

Refusal to convert permit
Subject to subparagraph (B), a Good Samaritan who obtains an investigative sampling permit may decline—
(i)
to apply to convert the investigative sampling permit into a Good Samaritan permit under paragraph (6); and
(ii)
to undertake remediation activities on the site where investigative sampling was conducted on conclusion of investigative sampling.
(B)

Return to preexisting conditions
If the activities carried out by a Good Samaritan under an investigative sampling permit result in surface water quality conditions, or any other environmental or safety conditions, that are worse than the preexisting conditions of the applicable abandoned mine site due to historic mine residue at the abandoned mine site, the Good Samaritan shall return the abandoned mine site to those preexisting conditions.
(6)

Permit conversion
Not later than 1 year after the date on which the investigative sampling under the investigative sampling permit concludes, a Good Samaritan to whom an investigative sampling permit is granted under paragraph (1) may apply to convert an investigative sampling permit into a Good Samaritan permit under subsection (e)(1).
(e)

Investigative sampling conversion
(1)

In general
A person to which an investigative sampling permit was granted may submit to the Administrator an application in accordance with paragraph (2) to convert the investigative sampling permit into a Good Samaritan permit.
(2)

Application
(A)

Investigative sampling
An application for the conversion of an investigative sampling permit under paragraph (1) shall include any requirement described in subsection (c) that was not included in full in the application submitted under subsection (d)(3).
(B)

Public notice and comment
An application for permit conversion under this paragraph shall be subject to—
(i)
environmental review and public comment procedures required by subsection (l); and
(ii)
a public hearing, if requested.
(f)

Content of permits
(1)

In general
A Good Samaritan permit shall contain—
(A)
the information described in subsection (c), including any modification required by the Administrator;
(B)
(i)
a provision that states that the Good Samaritan is responsible for securing, for all activities authorized under the Good Samaritan permit, all authorizations, licenses, and permits that are required under applicable law except for—
(I)
section 301, 302, 306, 307, 402, or 404 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1311, 1312, 1316, 1317, 1342, 1344); and
(II)
authorizations, licenses, and permits that would not need to be obtained if the remediation was conducted pursuant to section 121 of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9621); or
(ii)
in the case of an abandoned mine site in a State that is authorized to implement State law pursuant to section 402 or 404 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1342, 1344) or on land of an Indian tribe that is authorized to implement Tribal law pursuant to that section, a provision that states that the Good Samaritan is responsible for securing, for all activities authorized under the Good Samaritan permit, all authorizations, licenses, and permits that are required under applicable law, except for—
(I)
the State or Tribal law, as applicable; and
(II)
authorizations, licenses, and permits that would not need to be obtained if the remediation was conducted pursuant to section 121 of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9621);
(C)
specific public notification requirements, including the contact information for all appropriate response centers in accordance with subsection (o);
(D)
in the case of a project on land owned by the United States, a notice that the Good Samaritan permit serves as an agreement for use and occupancy of Federal land that is enforceable by the applicable Federal land management agency; and
(E)
any other terms and conditions determined to be appropriate by the Administrator or the Federal land management agency, as applicable.
(2)

Force majeure
A Good Samaritan permit may include, at the request of the Good Samaritan, a provision that a Good Samaritan may assert a claim of force majeure for any violation of the Good Samaritan permit caused solely by—
(A)
an act of God;
(B)
an act of war;
(C)
negligence on the part of the United States;
(D)
an act or omission of a third party, if the Good Samaritan—
(i)
exercises due care with respect to the actions of the Good Samaritan under the Good Samaritan permit, as determined by the Administrator;
(ii)
took precautions against foreseeable acts or omissions of the third party, as determined by the Administrator; and
(iii)
uses reasonable efforts—
(I)
to anticipate any potential force majeure; and
(II)
to address the effects of any potential force majeure; or
(E)
a public health emergency declared by the Federal Government or a global government, such as a pandemic or an epidemic.
(3)

Monitoring
(A)

In general
The Good Samaritan shall take such actions as the Good Samaritan permit requires to ensure appropriate baseline monitoring, monitoring during the remediation project, and post-remediation monitoring of the environment under paragraphs (6), (7), and (15), respectively, of subsection (c).
(B)

Multiparty monitoring
The Administrator may approve in a Good Samaritan permit the monitoring by multiple cooperating persons if, as determined by the Administrator—
(i)
the multiparty monitoring will effectively accomplish the goals of this section; and
(ii)
the Good Samaritan remains responsible for compliance with the terms of the Good Samaritan permit.
(4)

Other development
(A)

No authorization of mining activities
No mineral exploration, processing, beneficiation, or mining shall be—
(i)
authorized by this Act; or
(ii)
covered by any waiver of liability provided by this Act from applicable law.
(B)

Reprocessing of materials
A Good Samaritan may reprocess materials recovered during the implementation of a remediation plan only if—
(i)
the project under the Good Samaritan permit is on land owned by the United States;
(ii)
the applicable Federal land management agency has signed a decision document under subsection (l)(2)(G) approving reprocessing as part of a remediation plan;
(iii)
the proceeds from the sale or use of the materials are used—
(I)
to defray the costs of the remediation; and
(II)
to the extent required by the Good Samaritan permit, to reimburse the Administrator or the head of a Federal land management agency for the purpose of carrying out this Act;
(iv)
any remaining proceeds are deposited into the appropriate Good Samaritan Mine Remediation Fund established by section 5(a); and
(v)
the materials only include historic mine residue.
(C)

Connection with other activities
The commingling or association of any other discharge of water or historic mine residue or any activity, project, or operation conducted on or after the date of enactment of this Act with any aspect of a project subject to a Good Samaritan permit shall not limit or reduce the liability of any person associated with the other discharge of water or historic mine residue or activity, project, or operation.
(g)

Additional work
A Good Samaritan permit may allow the Good Samaritan to return to the abandoned mine site after the completion of the remediation to perform operations and maintenance or other work—
(1)
to ensure the functionality of the abandoned mine site; or
(2)
to protect public health and the environment.
(h)

Timing
Work authorized under a Good Samaritan permit—
(1)
shall commence, as applicable—
(A)
not later than the date that is 18 months after the date on which the Administrator granted the Good Samaritan permit, unless the Administrator grants an extension under subsection (r)(2)(A); or
(B)
if the grant of the Good Samaritan permit is the subject of a petition for judicial review, not later than the date that is 18 months after the date on which the judicial review, including any appeals, has concluded; and
(2)
shall continue until completed, with temporary suspensions permitted during adverse weather or other conditions specified in the Good Samaritan permit.
(i)

Transfer of permits
A Good Samaritan permit may be transferred to another person only if—
(1)
the Administrator determines that the transferee qualifies as a Good Samaritan;
(2)
the transferee signs, and agrees to be bound by the terms of, the permit;
(3)
the Administrator includes in the transferred permit any additional conditions necessary to meet the goals of this section; and
(4)
in the case of a project under the Good Samaritan permit on land owned by the United States, the head of the applicable Federal land management agency approves the transfer.
(j)

Role of administrator and federal land management agencies
In carrying out this section—
(1)
the Administrator shall—
(A)
consult with prospective applicants;
(B)
convene, coordinate, and lead the application review process;
(C)
maintain all records relating to the Good Samaritan permit and the permit process;
(D)
in the case of a proposed project on State, Tribal, or private land, provide an opportunity for cooperating persons and the public to participate in the Good Samaritan permit process, including—
(i)
carrying out environmental review and public comment procedures pursuant to subsection (l); and
(ii)
a public hearing, if requested; and
(E)
enforce and otherwise carry out this section; and
(2)
the head of an applicable Federal land management agency shall—
(A)
in the case of a proposed project on land owned by the United States, provide an opportunity for cooperating persons and the public to participate in the Good Samaritan permit process, including—
(i)
carrying out environmental review and public comment procedures pursuant to subsection (l); and
(ii)
a public hearing, if requested; and
(B)
in coordination with the Administrator, enforce Good Samaritan permits issued under this section for projects on land owned by the United States.
(k)

State, local, and tribal governments
As soon as practicable, but not later than 14 days after the date on which the Administrator receives an application for the remediation of an abandoned mine site under this section, the Administrator shall provide notice and a copy of the application to—
(1)
each local government with jurisdiction over a drinking water utility, and each Indian tribe with reservation or off-reservation treaty rights to land or water, located downstream from a proposed remediation project that is reasonably anticipated to be adversely impacted by a potential release of contaminants from the abandoned mine site, as determined by the Administrator;
(2)
each Federal, State, and Tribal agency that may have an interest in the application; and
(3)
in the case of an abandoned mine site that is located partially or entirely on land owned by the United States, the Federal land management agency with jurisdiction over that land.
(l)

Environmental review and public comment
(1)

In general
Before the issuance of a Good Samaritan permit to carry out a project for the remediation of an abandoned mine site, the Administrator shall ensure that environmental review and public comment procedures are carried out with respect to the proposed project.
(2)

Relation to NEPA
(A)

Major Federal action
Subject to subparagraph (F), the issuance or modification of a Good Samaritan permit by the Administrator shall be considered a major Federal action for purposes of section 102 of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4332).
(B)

Lead agency
The lead agency for purposes of an environmental assessment and public comment under this subsection shall be—
(i)
in the case of a proposed project on land owned by the United States, the applicable Federal land management agency; and
(ii)
in the case of a proposed project on State, Tribal, or private land, the Administrator.
(C)

Coordination
To the maximum extent practicable, the lead agency described in subparagraph (B) shall coordinate procedures under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) with State, Tribal, and Federal cooperating agencies, as applicable.
(D)

Cooperating agency
In the case of a proposed project on land owned by the United States, the Administrator shall be a cooperating agency for purposes of an environmental assessment and public comment under this subsection.
(E)

Single NEPA document
The lead agency described in subparagraph (B) may conduct a single environmental assessment for—
(i)
the issuance of a Good Samaritan permit;
(ii)
any activities authorized by a Good Samaritan permit; and
(iii)
any applicable permits required by the Secretary of the Interior or the Secretary of Agriculture.
(F)

No significant impact
(i)

In general
A Good Samaritan permit may only be issued if, after an environmental assessment, the head of the lead agency issues a finding of no significant impact.
(ii)

Significant impact
If the head of the lead agency determines that a project would likely have a significant impact on the environment, the head of the lead agency shall not issue a Good Samaritan permit for the proposed project.
(G)

Decision document
An approval or denial of a Good Samaritan permit may be issued as a single decision document that is signed by—
(i)
the Administrator; and
(ii)
in the case of a project on land owned by the United States, the head of the applicable Federal land management agency.
(H)

Limitation
Nothing in this paragraph exempts the Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary of the Interior, as applicable, from any other requirements of section 102 of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4332).
(m)

Permit grant
(1)

In general
The Administrator may grant a Good Samaritan permit to carry out a project for the remediation of an abandoned mine site only if—
(A)
the Administrator determines that—
(i)
the person seeking the permit is a Good Samaritan;
(ii)
the application described in subsection (c) is complete;
(iii)
the project is designed to remediate historic mine residue at the abandoned mine site to protect public health and the environment;
(iv)
the proposed project is designed to meet all other goals, as determined by the Administrator, including any goals set forth in the application for the Good Samaritan permit that are accepted by the Administrator;
(v)
the proposed activities, as compared to the baseline conditions described in subsection (c)(6), will make measurable progress toward achieving—
(I)
applicable water quality standards;
(II)
improved soil quality;
(III)
other improved environmental or safety conditions; or
(IV)
reductions in threats to soil quality or other environmental or safety conditions;
(vi)
the applicant has—
(I)
demonstrated that the applicant has the proper and appropriate experience and capacity to complete the permitted work;
(II)
demonstrated that the applicant will complete the permitted work;
(III)
the financial and other resources to address any contingencies identified in the Good Samaritan permit application described in subsections (b) and (c);
(IV)
granted access and provided the authority to review the records of the applicant relevant to compliance with the requirements of the Good Samaritan permit; and
(V)
demonstrated, to the satisfaction of the Administrator, that—
- (aa)
the applicant has, or has access to, the financial resources to complete the project described in the Good Samaritan permit application, including any long-term monitoring and operations and maintenance that the Administrator may require the applicant to perform in the Good Samaritan permit; or
- (bb)
the applicant has established a third-party financial assurance mechanism, such as a corporate guarantee from a parent or other corporate affiliate, letter of credit, trust, surety bond, or insurance to assure that funds are available to complete the permitted work, including for operations and maintenance and to address potential contingencies, that—
(AA)
establishes the Administrator or the head of the Federal land management agency as the beneficiary of the third-party financial assurance mechanism; and
(BB)
allows the Administrator to retain and use the funds from the financial assurance mechanism in the event the Good Samaritan does not complete the remediation under the Good Samaritan permit; and
(vii)
the project meets the requirements of this Act;
(B)
the State or Indian tribe with jurisdiction over land on which the abandoned mine site is located has been given an opportunity to review and, if necessary, comment on the grant of the Good Samaritan permit;
(C)
in the case of a project proposed to be carried out under the Good Samaritan permit partially or entirely on land owned by the United States, pursuant to subsection (l), the head of the applicable Federal land management agency has signed a decision document approving the proposed project; and
(D)
the Administrator or head of the Federal land management agency, as applicable, has provided—
(i)
environmental review and public comment procedures required by subsection (l); and
(ii)
a public hearing under that subsection, if requested.
(2)

Deadline
(A)

In general
The Administrator shall grant or deny a Good Samaritan permit by not later than—
(i)
the date that is 180 days after the date of receipt by the Administrator of an application for the Good Samaritan permit that, as determined by the Administrator, is complete and meets all applicable requirements of subsection (c); or
(ii)
such later date as may be determined by the Administrator with notification provided to the applicant.
(B)

Constructive denial
If the Administrator fails to grant or deny a Good Samaritan permit by the applicable deadline described in subparagraph (A), the application shall be considered to be denied.
(3)

Discretionary action
The issuance of a permit by the Administrator and the approval of a project by the head of an applicable Federal land management agency shall be considered to be discretionary actions taken in the public interest.
(n)

Effect of permits
(1)

In general
A Good Samaritan and any cooperating person undertaking remediation activities identified in, carried out pursuant to, and in compliance with, a covered permit—
(A)
shall be considered to be in compliance with all requirements (including permitting requirements) under the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq.) (including any law or regulation implemented by a State or Indian tribe under section 402 or 404 of that Act (33 U.S.C. 1342, 1344)) and the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9601 et seq.) during the term of the Good Samaritan permit and after the termination of the Good Samaritan permit;
(B)
shall not be required to obtain a permit under, or to comply with, section 301, 302, 306, 307, 402, or 404 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1311, 1312, 1316, 1317, 1342, 1344), or any State or Tribal standards or regulations approved by the Administrator under those sections of that Act, during the term of the Good Samaritan permit and after the termination of the Good Samaritan permit; and
(C)
shall not be required to obtain any authorizations, licenses, or permits that would otherwise not need to be obtained if the remediation was conducted pursuant to section 121 of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9621).
(2)

Unauthorized activities
(A)

In general
Any person (including a Good Samaritan or any cooperating person) that carries out any activity, including activities relating to mineral exploration, processing, beneficiation, or mining, including development, that is not authorized by the applicable Good Samaritan permit shall be subject to all applicable law.
(B)

Liability
Any activity not authorized by a Good Samaritan permit, as determined by the Administrator, may be subject to liability and enforcement under all applicable law, including—
(i)
the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq.); and
(ii)
the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9601 et seq.).
(3)

No enforcement or liability for Good Samaritans
(A)

In general
Subject to subparagraphs (D) and (E), a Good Samaritan or cooperating person that is conducting a remediation activity identified in, pursuant to, and in compliance with a covered permit shall not be subject to enforcement or liability described in subparagraph (B) for—
(i)
any actions undertaken that are authorized by the covered permit; or
(ii)
any past, present, or future releases, threats of releases, or discharges of hazardous substances, pollutants, or contaminants at or from the abandoned mine site that is the subject of the covered permit (including any releases, threats of releases, or discharges that occurred prior to the grant of the covered permit).
(B)

Enforcement or liability described
Enforcement or liability referred to in subparagraph (A) is enforcement, civil or criminal penalties, citizen suits and any liabilities for response costs, natural resource damage, or contribution under—
(i)
the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq.) (including under any law or regulation administered by a State or Indian tribe under that Act); or
(ii)
the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9601 et seq.).
(C)

Duration of applicability
Subparagraph (A) shall apply during the term of the Good Samaritan permit and after termination of the Good Samaritan permit.
(D)

Other parties
Nothing in subparagraph (A) limits the liability of any person that is not described in that subparagraph.
(E)

Decline in environmental conditions
Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), if a Good Samaritan or cooperating person fails to comply with any term, condition, or limitation of a covered permit and that failure results in surface water quality or other environmental conditions that are measurably worse than baseline conditions at the abandoned mine site, the Administrator shall—
(i)
notify the Good Samaritan or cooperating person, as applicable, of the failure to comply; and
(ii)
require the Good Samaritan or the cooperating person, as applicable, to undertake reasonable measures, as determined by the Administrator, to return surface water quality or other environmental conditions to those baseline conditions.
(F)

Failure to correct
Subparagraph (A) shall not apply to a Good Samaritan or cooperating person that fails to take any actions required under subparagraph (E)(ii) within a reasonable period of time, as established by the Administrator.
(G)

Minor or corrected permit violations
For purposes of this paragraph, the failure to comply with a term, condition, or limitation of a Good Samaritan permit or investigative sampling permit shall not be considered a permit violation or noncompliance with that permit if—
(i)
that failure or noncompliance does not result in a measurable adverse impact on water quality or other environmental conditions; or
(ii)
the Good Samaritan or cooperating person complies with subparagraph (E)(ii).
(o)

Public notification of adverse event
A Good Samaritan shall notify all appropriate Federal, State, Tribal, and local entities of any unplanned or previously unknown release of historic mine residue caused by the actions of the Good Samaritan or any cooperating person in accordance with—
(1)
section 103 of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9603);
(2)
section 304 of the Emergency Planning and Community Right-To-Know Act of 1986 (42 U.S.C. 11004);
(3)
the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq.);
(4)
any other applicable provision of Federal law; and
(5)
any other applicable provision of State, Tribal, or local law.
(p)

Grant eligibility
A remediation project conducted under a Good Samaritan permit shall be eligible for funding pursuant to—
(1)
section 319 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1329); and
(2)
section 104(k) of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9604(k)).
(q)

Emergency authority and liability
(1)

Emergency authority
Nothing in this section affects the authority of—
(A)
the Administrator to take any responsive action authorized by law; or
(B)
a Federal, State, Tribal, or local agency to carry out any emergency authority, including an emergency authority provided under Federal, State, Tribal, or local law.
(2)

Liability
Except as specifically provided in this Act, nothing in this Act, a Good Samaritan permit, or an investigative sampling permit limits the liability of any person (including a Good Samaritan or any cooperating person) under any provision of law.
(r)

Termination of permit
(1)

In general
A Good Samaritan permit shall terminate, as applicable—
(A)
on inspection and notice from the Administrator to the recipient of the Good Samaritan permit that the permitted work has been completed in accordance with the terms of the Good Samaritan permit, as determined by the Administrator;
(B)
if the Administrator terminates a permit under paragraph (4)(B); or
(C)
except as provided in paragraph (2)—
(i)
on the date that is 18 months after the date on which the Administrator granted the Good Samaritan permit, if the permitted work has not commenced by that date; or
(ii)
if the grant of the Good Samaritan permit was the subject of a petition for judicial review, on the date that is 18 months after the date on which the judicial review, including any appeals, has concluded, if the permitted work has not commenced by that date.
(2)

Extension
(A)

In general
If the Administrator is otherwise required to terminate a Good Samaritan permit under paragraph (1)(C), the Administrator may grant an extension of the Good Samaritan permit.
(B)

Limitation
Any extension granted under subparagraph (A) shall be not more than 180 days for each extension.
(3)

Effect of termination
(A)

In general
Notwithstanding the termination of a Good Samaritan permit or an investigative sampling permit under paragraph (1), but subject to subparagraph (B), the provisions of paragraphs (1) through (4) of subsection (n) shall continue to apply to the Good Samaritan and any cooperating persons after the termination, including to any long-term operations and maintenance pursuant to the agreement under paragraph (5).
(B)

Degradation of surface water quality
(i)

Opportunity to return to baseline
If, at the time that 1 or more of the conditions described in paragraph (1) are met but before the Good Samaritan permit is terminated, actions by the Good Samaritan or cooperating person have caused surface water quality at the abandoned mine site to be measurably worse, as compared to baseline conditions described in subsection (c)(6), the Administrator shall, before terminating the Good Samaritan permit, provide the Good Samaritan or cooperating person, as applicable, the opportunity to return surface water quality to those baseline conditions.
(ii)

Effect
If, pursuant to clause (i), the applicable Good Samaritan or cooperating person does not return the surface water quality at the abandoned mine site to the baseline conditions described in subsection (c)(6), subparagraph (A) shall not apply to the Good Samaritan or any cooperating persons.
(4)

Unforeseen circumstances
(A)

In general
The recipient of a covered permit may seek to modify or terminate the covered permit to take into account any event or condition that—
(i)
significantly reduces the feasibility or significantly increases the cost of completing the remediation project that is the subject of the covered permit;
(ii)
was not—
(I)
reasonably contemplated by the recipient of the permit; or
(II)
taken into account in the remediation plan of the recipient of the permit; and
(iii)
is beyond the control of the recipient of the permit, as determined by the Administrator.
(B)

Termination
The Administrator shall terminate a covered permit if—
(i)
the recipient of the permit seeks termination of the permit under subparagraph (A);
(ii)
the factors described in subparagraph (A) are satisfied; and
(iii)
the Administrator determines that remediation activities conducted by the Good Samaritan or cooperating person pursuant to the covered permit may result in surface water quality conditions, or any other environmental conditions, that will be worse than the baseline conditions, as described in subsection (c)(6), as applicable.
(5)

Long-term operations and maintenance
In the case of a project that involves long-term operations and maintenance at an abandoned mine site located on land owned by the United States, the project may be considered complete and the Administrator may terminate the Good Samaritan permit under this subsection if the applicable Good Samaritan has entered into an agreement with the applicable Federal land management agency or a cooperating person for the long-term operations and maintenance that includes sufficient funding for the long-term operations and maintenance.
(s)

Regulations
(1)

In general
Subject to paragraph (2), not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator, in consultation with the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture, and appropriate State, Tribal, and local officials, shall promulgate regulations to establish—
(A)
requirements for remediation plans described in subsection (c); and
(B)
any other requirement that the Administrator determines to be necessary to carry out this Act.
(2)

Specific requirements before promulgation
Before the date on which the Administrator promulgates regulations under paragraph (1), the Administrator may establish, on a case-by-case basis, specific requirements that the Administrator determines would facilitate the implementation of this section with respect to a Good Samaritan permitting program.
5.

Special accounts
(a)

Establishment
There is established in the Treasury of the United States a Good Samaritan Mine Remediation Fund (referred to in this section as a “Fund”) for—
(1)
each Federal land management agency that authorizes a Good Samaritan to conduct a project on Federal land under the jurisdiction of that Federal land management agency under a Good Samaritan permit; and
(2)
the Environmental Protection Agency.
(b)

Deposits
Each Fund shall consist of—
(1)
amounts provided in appropriation Acts;
(2)
any proceeds from reprocessing deposited under section 4(f)(4)(B)(iv);
(3)
any financial assurance funds collected from an agreement described in section 4(m)(1)(A)(vi)(V)(bb);
(4)
any funds collected for long-term operations and maintenance under an agreement under section 4(r)(5);
(5)
any interest earned under an investment under subsection (c);
(6)
any proceeds from the sale or redemption of investments held in the Fund; and
(7)
any amounts donated to the Fund by any person.
(c)

Unused funds
Amounts in each Fund not currently needed to carry out this Act shall be—
(1)
maintained as readily available or on deposit;
(2)
invested in obligations of the United States or guaranteed by the United States; or
(3)
invested in obligations, participations, or other instruments that are lawful investments for a fiduciary, a trust, or public funds.
(d)

Retain and use authority
The Administrator and each head of a Federal land management agency, as appropriate, may, notwithstanding any other provision of law, retain and use money deposited in the applicable Fund without fiscal year limitation for the purpose of carrying out this Act.
6.

Report to Congress
(a)

In general
Not later than 8 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator, in consultation with the heads of Federal land management agencies, shall submit to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committees on Transportation and Infrastructure, Energy and Commerce, and Natural Resources of the House of Representatives a report evaluating the Good Samaritan pilot program under this Act.
(b)

Inclusions
The report under subsection (a) shall include—
(1)
a description of—
(A)
the number, types, and objectives of Good Samaritan permits granted pursuant to this Act; and
(B)
each remediation project authorized by those Good Samaritan permits;
(2)
qualitative and quantitative data on the results achieved under the Good Samaritan permits before the date of issuance of the report;
(3)
a description of—
(A)
any problems encountered in administering this Act; and
(B)
whether the problems have been or can be remedied by administrative action (including amendments to existing law);
(4)
a description of progress made in achieving the purposes of this Act; and
(5)
recommendations on whether the Good Samaritan pilot program under this Act should be continued, including a description of any modifications (including amendments to existing law) required to continue administering this Act.
1.

Short title
This Act may be cited as the “Good Samaritan Remediation of Abandoned Hardrock Mines Act of 2024”.
2.

Definitions
In this Act:
(1)

Abandoned hardrock mine site
(A)

In general
The term abandoned hardrock mine site means an abandoned or inactive hardrock mine site and any facility associated with an abandoned or inactive hardrock mine site—
(i)
that was used for the production of a mineral other than coal conducted on Federal land under sections 2319 through 2352 of the Revised Statutes (commonly known as the “Mining Law of 1872”; 30 U.S.C. 22 et seq.) or on non-Federal land; and
(ii)
for which, based on information supplied by the Good Samaritan after review of publicly available data and after review of other information in the possession of the Administrator, the Administrator or, in the case of a site on land owned by the United States, the Federal land management agency, determines that no responsible owner or operator has been identified—
(I)
who is potentially liable for, or has been required to perform or pay for, environmental remediation activities under applicable law; and
(II)
other than, in the case of a mine site located on land owned by the United States, a Federal land management agency that has not been involved in mining activity on that land, except that the approval of a plan of operations under the hardrock mining regulations of the applicable Federal land management agency shall not be considered involvement in the mining activity.
(B)

Inclusion
The term abandoned hardrock mine site includes a hardrock mine site (including associated facilities) that was previously the subject of a completed response action under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9601 et seq.) or a similar Federal and State reclamation or cleanup program, including the remediation of mine-scarred land under the brownfields revitalization program under section 104(k) of that Act (42 U.S.C. 9604(k)).
(C)

Exclusions
The term abandoned hardrock mine site does not include a mine site (including associated facilities)—
(i)
in a temporary shutdown or cessation;
(ii)
included on the National Priorities List developed by the President in accordance with section 105(a)(8)(B) of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9605(a)(8)(B)) or proposed for inclusion on that list;
(iii)
that is the subject of a planned or ongoing response action under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9601 et seq.) or a similar Federal and State reclamation or cleanup program;
(iv)
that has a responsible owner or operator; or
(v)
that actively mined or processed minerals after December 11, 1980.
(2)

Administrator
The term Administrator means the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency.
(3)

Applicable water quality standards
The term applicable water quality standards means the water quality standards promulgated by the Administrator or adopted by a State or Indian tribe and approved by the Administrator pursuant to the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq.).
(4)

Baseline conditions
The term baseline conditions means the concentrations, locations, and releases of any hazardous substances, pollutants, or contaminants, as described in the Good Samaritan permit, present at an abandoned hardrock mine site prior to undertaking any action under this Act.
(5)

Cooperating person
(A)

In general
The term cooperating person means any person that is named by the Good Samaritan in the permit application as a cooperating entity.
(B)

Exclusions
The term cooperating person does not include—
(i)
a responsible owner or operator with respect to the abandoned hardrock mine site described in the permit application;
(ii)
a person that had a role in the creation of historic mine residue at the abandoned hardrock mine site described in the permit application; or
(iii)
a Federal agency.
(6)

Covered permit
The term covered permit means—
(A)
a Good Samaritan permit; and
(B)
an investigative sampling permit.
(7)

Federal land management agency
The term Federal land management agency means any Federal agency authorized by law or executive order to exercise jurisdiction, custody, or control over land owned by the United States.
(8)

Good Samaritan
The term Good Samaritan means a person that, with respect to historic mine residue, as determined by the Administrator—
(A)
is not a past or current owner or operator of—
(i)
the abandoned hardrock mine site at which the historic mine residue is located; or
(ii)
a portion of that abandoned hardrock mine site;
(B)
had no role in the creation of the historic mine residue; and
(C)
is not potentially liable under any Federal, State, Tribal, or local law for the remediation, treatment, or control of the historic mine residue.
(9)

Good Samaritan permit
The term Good Samaritan permit means a permit granted by the Administrator under section 4(a)(1).
(10)

Historic mine residue
(A)

In general
The term historic mine residue means mine residue or any condition at an abandoned hardrock mine site resulting from hardrock mining activities.
(B)

Inclusions
The term historic mine residue includes—
(i)
previously mined ores and minerals other than coal that contribute to acid mine drainage or other pollution;
(ii)
equipment (including materials in equipment);
(iii)
any tailings facilities, heap leach piles, dump leach piles, waste rock, overburden, slag piles, or other waste or material resulting from any extraction, beneficiation, or other processing activity that occurred during the active operation of an abandoned hardrock mine site;
(iv)
any acidic or otherwise polluted flow in surface water or groundwater that originates from, or is pooled and contained in, an inactive or abandoned hardrock mine site, such as underground workings, open pits, in-situ leaching operations, ponds, or impoundments;
(v)
any hazardous substance (as defined in section 101 of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9601));
(vi)
any pollutant or contaminant (as defined in section 101 of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9601)); and
(vii)
any pollutant (as defined in section 502 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1362)).
(11)

Indian tribe
The term Indian tribe has the meaning given the term in—
(A)
section 518(h) of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1377(h)); or
(B)
section 101 of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9601).
(12)

Investigative sampling permit
The term investigative sampling permit means a permit granted by the Administrator under section 4(d)(1).
(13)

Person
The term person means any entity described in—
(A)
section 502(5) of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1362(5)); or
(B)
section 101(21) of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9601(21)).
(14)

Remediation
(A)

In general
The term remediation means any action taken to investigate, characterize, or cleanup, in whole or in part, a discharge, release, or threat of release of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant into the environment at or from an abandoned hardrock mine site, or to otherwise protect and improve human health and the environment.
(B)

Inclusion
The term remediation includes any action to remove, treat, or contain historic mine residue to prevent, minimize, or reduce—
(i)
the release or threat of release of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant that would harm human health or the environment; or
(ii)
a migration or discharge of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant that would harm human health or the environment.
(C)

Exclusion
The term remediation does not include any action that requires plugging, opening, or otherwise altering the portal or adit of the abandoned hardrock mine site.
(15)

Reservation
The term reservation has the meaning given the term Indian country in section 1151 of title 18, United States Code.
(16)

Responsible owner or operator
The term responsible owner or operator means a person that is—
(A)
(i)
legally responsible under section 301 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1311) for a discharge that originates from an abandoned hardrock mine site; and
(ii)
financially able to comply with each requirement described in that section; or
(B)
(i)
a present or past owner or operator or other person that is liable with respect to a release or threat of release of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant associated with the historic mine residue at or from an abandoned hardrock mine site under section 104, 106, 107, or 113 of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9604, 9606, 9607, 9613); and
(ii)
financially able to comply with each requirement described in those sections, as applicable.
3.

Scope
Nothing in this Act—
(1)
except as provided in section 4(n), reduces any existing liability under Federal, State, or local law;
(2)
except as provided in section 4(n), releases any person from liability under Federal, State, or local law, except in compliance with this Act;
(3)
authorizes the conduct of any mining or processing other than the conduct of any processing of previously mined ores, minerals, wastes, or other materials that is authorized by a Good Samaritan permit;
(4)
imposes liability on the United States or a Federal land management agency pursuant to section 107 of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9607) or section 301 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1311); or
(5)
relieves the United States or any Federal land management agency from any liability under section 107 of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9607) or section 301 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1311) that exists apart from any action undertaken pursuant to this Act.
4.

Abandoned hardrock mine site Good Samaritan pilot project authorization
(a)

Establishment
(1)

In general
The Administrator shall establish a pilot program under which the Administrator shall grant not more than 15 Good Samaritan permits to carry out projects to remediate historic mine residue at any portions of abandoned hardrock mine sites in accordance with this Act.
(2)

Oversight of permits
The Administrator may oversee the remediation project under paragraph (1), and any action taken by the applicable Good Samaritan or any cooperating person under the applicable Good Samaritan permit, for the duration of the Good Samaritan permit, as the Administrator determines to be necessary to review the status of the project.
(3)

Sunset
(A)

In general
Except as provided in subparagraph (B), the pilot program described in paragraph (1) shall terminate on the date that is 7 years after the date of enactment of this Act.
(B)

Exception
Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the Administrator may grant a Good Samaritan permit pursuant to this Act after the date identified in subparagraph (A) if the application for the Good Samaritan permit—
(i)
was submitted not later than 180 days before that date; and
(ii)
was completed in accordance with subsection (c) by not later than 7 years after the date of enactment of this Act.
(C)

Effect on certain permits
Any Good Samaritan permit granted by the deadline prescribed in subparagraph (A) or (B), as applicable, that is in effect on the date that is 7 years after the date of enactment of this Act shall remain in effect after that date in accordance with—
(i)
the terms and conditions of the Good Samaritan permit; and
(ii)
this Act.
(b)

Good Samaritan permit eligibility
(1)

In general
To be eligible to receive a Good Samaritan permit to carry out a project to remediate an abandoned hardrock mine site, a person shall demonstrate that, as determined by the Administrator—
(A)
the abandoned hardrock mine site that is the subject of the application for a Good Samaritan permit is located in the United States;
(B)
the purpose of the proposed project is the remediation at that abandoned hardrock mine site of historic mine residue;
(C)
the proposed activities are designed to result in the partial or complete remediation of historic mine residue at the abandoned hardrock mine site within the term of the Good Samaritan permit;
(D)
the proposed project poses a low risk to the environment, as determined by the Administrator;
(E)
to the satisfaction of the Administrator, the person—
(i)
possesses, or has the ability to secure, the financial and other resources necessary—
(I)
to complete the permitted work, as determined by the Administrator; and
(II)
to address any contingencies identified in the Good Samaritan permit application described in subsection (c);
(ii)
possesses the proper and appropriate experience and capacity to complete the permitted work; and
(iii)
will complete the permitted work; and
(F)
the person is a Good Samaritan with respect to the historic mine residue proposed to be covered by the Good Samaritan permit.
(2)

Identification of all responsible owners or operators
(A)

In general
A Good Samaritan shall make reasonable and diligent efforts to identify, from a review of publicly available information in land records or on internet websites of Federal, State, and local regulatory authorities, all responsible owners or operators of an abandoned hardrock mine site proposed to be remediated by the Good Samaritan under this section.
(B)

Existing responsible owner or operator
If the Administrator determines, based on information provided by a Good Samaritan or otherwise, that a responsible owner or operator exists for an abandoned hardrock mine site proposed to be remediated by the Good Samaritan, the Administrator shall deny the application for a Good Samaritan permit.
(c)

Application for permits
To obtain a Good Samaritan permit, a person shall submit to the Administrator an application, signed by the person and any cooperating person, that provides, to the extent known or reasonably discoverable by the person on the date on which the application is submitted—
(1)
a description of the abandoned hardrock mine site (including the boundaries of the abandoned hardrock mine site) proposed to be covered by the Good Samaritan permit;
(2)
a description of all parties proposed to be involved in the remediation project, including any cooperating person and each member of an applicable corporation, association, partnership, consortium, joint venture, commercial entity, or nonprofit association;
(3)
evidence that the person has or will acquire all legal rights or the authority necessary to enter the relevant abandoned hardrock mine site and perform the remediation described in the application;
(4)
a detailed description of the historic mine residue to be remediated;
(5)
a detailed description of the expertise and experience of the person and the resources available to the person to successfully implement and complete the remediation plan under paragraph (7);
(6)
to the satisfaction of the Administrator and subject to subsection (d), a description of the baseline conditions caused by the historic mine residue to be remediated that includes—
(A)
the nature and extent of any adverse impact on the water quality of any body of water caused by the drainage of historic mine residue or other discharges from the abandoned hardrock mine site;
(B)
the flow rate and concentration of any drainage of historic mine residue or other discharge from the abandoned hardrock mine site in any body of water that has resulted in an adverse impact described in subparagraph (A); and
(C)
any other release or threat of release of historic mine residue that has resulted in an adverse impact to human health or the environment;
(7)
subject to subsection (d), a remediation plan for the abandoned hardrock mine site that describes—
(A)
the nature and scope of the proposed remediation activities, including—
(i)
any historic mine residue to be addressed by the remediation plan; and
(ii)
a description of the goals of the remediation including, if applicable, with respect to—
(I)
the reduction or prevention of a release, threat of release, or discharge to surface waters; or
(II)
other appropriate goals relating to water or soil;
(B)
each activity that the person proposes to take that is—
(i)
designed to—
(I)
improve or enhance water quality or site-specific soil or sediment quality relevant to the historic mine residue addressed by the remediation plan, including making measurable progress toward achieving applicable water quality standards; or
(II)
otherwise protect human health and the environment (including through the prevention of a release, discharge, or threat of release to water, sediment, or soil); and
(ii)
otherwise necessary to carry out an activity described in subclause (I) or (II) of clause (i);
(C)
a plan describing the monitoring or other forms of assessment that will be undertaken by the person to evaluate the success of the activities described in subparagraph (A) during and after the remediation, with respect to the baseline conditions, as described in paragraph (6);
(D)
to the satisfaction of the Administrator, detailed engineering plans for the project;
(E)
detailed plans for any proposed recycling or reprocessing of historic mine residue to be conducted by the person (including a description of how all proposed recycling or reprocessing activities contribute to the remediation of the abandoned hardrock mine site); and
(F)
identification of any proposed contractor that will perform any remediation activity;
(8)
subject to subsection (d), a schedule for the work to be carried out under the project, including a schedule for periodic reporting by the person on the remediation of the abandoned hardrock mine site;
(9)
a health and safety plan that is specifically designed for mining remediation work;
(10)
a specific contingency plan that—
(A)
includes provisions on response and notification to Federal, State, Tribal, and local authorities with jurisdiction over downstream waters that have the potential to be impacted by an unplanned release or discharge of hazardous substances, pollutants, or contaminants; and
(B)
is designed to respond to unplanned adverse events (such as adverse weather events or a potential fluid release that may result from addressing pooled water or hydraulic pressure situations), including the sudden release of historic mine residue;
(11)
subject to subsection (d), a project budget and description of financial resources that demonstrate that the permitted work, including any operation and maintenance, will be completed;
(12)
subject to subsection (d), information demonstrating that the applicant has the financial resources to carry out the remediation (including any long-term monitoring that may be required by the Good Samaritan permit) or the ability to secure an appropriate third-party financial assurance, as determined by the Administrator, to ensure completion of the permitted work, including any long-term operations and maintenance of remediation activities that may be—
(A)
proposed in the application for the Good Samaritan permit; or
(B)
required by the Administrator as a condition of granting the permit;
(13)
subject to subsection (d), a detailed plan for any required operation and maintenance of any remediation, including a timeline, if necessary;
(14)
subject to subsection (d), a description of any planned post-remediation monitoring, if necessary; and
(15)
subject to subsection (d), any other appropriate information, as determined by the Administrator or the applicant.
(d)

Investigative sampling
(1)

Investigative sampling permits
The Administrator may grant an investigative sampling permit for a period determined by the Administrator to authorize a Good Samaritan to conduct investigative sampling of historic mine residue, soil, sediment, or water to determine—
(A)
baseline conditions; and
(B)
whether the Good Samaritan—
(i)
is willing to perform further remediation to address the historic mine residue; and
(ii)
will proceed with a permit conversion under subsection (e)(1).
(2)

Number of permits
(A)

Limitation
Subject to subparagraph (B), the Administrator may grant not more than 15 investigative sampling permits.
(B)

Applicability to converted permits
An investigative sampling permit that is not converted to a Good Samaritan permit pursuant to paragraph (5) may be eligible for reissuance by the Administrator subject to the overall total of not more than 15 investigative sampling permits allowed at any 1 time described in subparagraph (A).
(3)

Application
If a Good Samaritan proposes to conduct investigative sampling, the Good Samaritan shall submit to the Administrator an investigative sampling permit application that contains, to the satisfaction of the Administrator—
(A)
each description required under paragraphs (1), (2), and (5) of subsection (c);
(B)
to the extent reasonably known to the applicant, any previously documented water quality data describing conditions at the abandoned hardrock mine site;
(C)
the evidence required under subsection (c)(3);
(D)
each plan required under paragraphs (9) and (10) of subsection (c); and
(E)
a detailed plan of the investigative sampling.
(4)

Requirements
(A)

In general
If a person submits an application that proposes only investigative sampling of historic mine residue, soil, sediment, or water that only includes the requirements described in paragraph (1), the Administrator may grant an investigative sampling permit that authorizes the person only to carry out the plan of investigative sampling of historic mine residue, soil, sediment, or water, as described in the investigative sampling permit application under paragraph (3).
(B)

Reprocessing
An investigative sampling permit—
(i)
shall not authorize a Good Samaritan or cooperating person to conduct any reprocessing of material; and
(ii)
may authorize metallurgical testing of historic mine residue to determine whether reprocessing under subsection (f)(4)(B) is feasible.
(C)

Requirements relating to samples
In conducting investigative sampling of historic mine residue, soil, sediment, or water, a Good Samaritan shall—
(i)
collect samples that are representative of the conditions present at the abandoned hardrock mine site that is the subject of the investigative sampling permit; and
(ii)
retain publicly available records of all sampling events for a period of not less than 3 years.
(5)

Permit conversion
Not later than 1 year after the date on which the investigative sampling under the investigative sampling permit concludes, a Good Samaritan to whom an investigative sampling permit is granted under paragraph (1) may apply to convert an investigative sampling permit into a Good Samaritan permit under subsection (e)(1).
(6)

Permit not converted
(A)

In general
Subject to subparagraph (B)(ii)(I), a Good Samaritan who obtains an investigative sampling permit may decline—
(i)
to apply to convert the investigative sampling permit into a Good Samaritan permit under paragraph (5); and
(ii)
to undertake remediation activities on the site where investigative sampling was conducted on conclusion of investigative sampling.
(B)

Effect of lack of conversion
(i)

In general
Notwithstanding a refusal by a Good Samaritan to convert an investigative sampling permit into a Good Samaritan permit under subparagraph (A), but subject to clause (ii), the provisions of paragraphs (1) through (4) of subsection (n) shall continue to apply to the Good Samaritan and any cooperating persons after the refusal to convert.
(ii)

Degradation of surface water quality
(I)

Opportunity to correct
If, before the date on which a Good Samaritan refuses to convert an investigative sampling permit under subparagraph (A), actions by the Good Samaritan or any cooperating person have caused conditions at the abandoned hardrock mine site to be measurably worse, as determined by the Administrator, when compared to conditions described pursuant to paragraph (3)(B), if applicable, the Administrator shall provide the Good Samaritan or cooperating person, as applicable, the opportunity to return the conditions at the abandoned hardrock mine site to those conditions.
(II)

Effect
If, pursuant to subclause (I), the applicable Good Samaritan or cooperating person does not return the surface water quality at the abandoned hardrock mine site to conditions described pursuant to paragraph (3)(B), if applicable, as determined by the Administrator, clause (i) shall not apply to the Good Samaritan or any cooperating persons.
(e)

Investigative sampling conversion
(1)

In general
A person to which an investigative sampling permit was granted may submit to the Administrator an application in accordance with paragraph (2) to convert the investigative sampling permit into a Good Samaritan permit.
(2)

Application
(A)

Investigative sampling
An application for the conversion of an investigative sampling permit under paragraph (1) shall include any requirement described in subsection (c) that was not included in full in the application submitted under subsection (d)(3).
(B)

Public notice and comment
An application for permit conversion under this paragraph shall be subject to—
(i)
environmental review and public comment procedures required by subsection (l); and
(ii)
a public hearing, if requested.
(f)

Content of permits
(1)

In general
A Good Samaritan permit shall contain—
(A)
the information described in subsection (c), including any modification required by the Administrator;
(B)
(i)
a provision that states that the Good Samaritan is responsible for securing, for all activities authorized under the Good Samaritan permit, all authorizations, licenses, and permits that are required under applicable law except for—
(I)
section 301, 302, 306, 307, 402, or 404 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1311, 1312, 1316, 1317, 1342, 1344); and
(II)
authorizations, licenses, and permits that would not need to be obtained if the remediation was conducted pursuant to section 121 of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9621); or
(ii)
in the case of an abandoned hardrock mine site in a State that is authorized to implement State law pursuant to section 402 or 404 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1342, 1344) or on land of an Indian tribe that is authorized to implement Tribal law pursuant to that section, a provision that states that the Good Samaritan is responsible for securing, for all activities authorized under the Good Samaritan permit, all authorizations, licenses, and permits that are required under applicable law, except for—
(I)
the State or Tribal law, as applicable; and
(II)
authorizations, licenses, and permits that would not need to be obtained if the remediation was conducted pursuant to section 121 of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9621);
(C)
specific public notification requirements, including the contact information for all appropriate response centers in accordance with subsection (o);
(D)
in the case of a project on land owned by the United States, a notice that the Good Samaritan permit serves as an agreement for use and occupancy of Federal land that is enforceable by the applicable Federal land management agency; and
(E)
any other terms and conditions determined to be appropriate by the Administrator or the Federal land management agency, as applicable.
(2)

Force majeure
A Good Samaritan permit may include, at the request of the Good Samaritan, a provision that a Good Samaritan may assert a claim of force majeure for any violation of the Good Samaritan permit caused solely by—
(A)
an act of God;
(B)
an act of war;
(C)
negligence on the part of the United States;
(D)
an act or omission of a third party, if the Good Samaritan—
(i)
exercises due care with respect to the actions of the Good Samaritan under the Good Samaritan permit, as determined by the Administrator;
(ii)
took precautions against foreseeable acts or omissions of the third party, as determined by the Administrator; and
(iii)
uses reasonable efforts—
(I)
to anticipate any potential force majeure; and
(II)
to address the effects of any potential force majeure; or
(E)
a public health emergency declared by the Federal Government or a global government, such as a pandemic or an epidemic.
(3)

Monitoring
(A)

In general
The Good Samaritan shall take such actions as the Good Samaritan permit requires to ensure appropriate baseline conditions monitoring, monitoring during the remediation project, and post-remediation monitoring of the environment under paragraphs (7) and (14) of subsection (c).
(B)

Multiparty monitoring
The Administrator may approve in a Good Samaritan permit the monitoring by multiple cooperating persons if, as determined by the Administrator—
(i)
the multiparty monitoring will effectively accomplish the goals of this section; and
(ii)
the Good Samaritan remains responsible for compliance with the terms of the Good Samaritan permit.
(4)

Other development
(A)

No authorization of mining activities
No mineral exploration, processing, beneficiation, or mining shall be—
(i)
authorized by this Act; or
(ii)
covered by any waiver of liability provided by this Act from applicable law.
(B)

Reprocessing of materials
A Good Samaritan may reprocess materials recovered during the implementation of a remediation plan only if—
(i)
the project under the Good Samaritan permit is on land owned by the United States;
(ii)
the applicable Federal land management agency has signed a decision document under subsection (l)(2)(G) approving reprocessing as part of a remediation plan;
(iii)
the proceeds from the sale or use of the materials are used—
(I)
to defray the costs of the remediation; and
(II)
to the extent required by the Good Samaritan permit, to reimburse the Administrator or the head of a Federal land management agency for the purpose of carrying out this Act;
(iv)
any remaining proceeds are deposited into the appropriate Good Samaritan Mine Remediation Fund established by section 5(a); and
(v)
the materials only include historic mine residue.
(C)

Connection with other activities
The commingling or association of any other discharge of water or historic mine residue or any activity, project, or operation conducted on or after the date of enactment of this Act with any aspect of a project subject to a Good Samaritan permit shall not limit or reduce the liability of any person associated with the other discharge of water or historic mine residue or activity, project, or operation.
(g)

Additional work
A Good Samaritan permit may (subject to subsection (r)(5) in the case of a project located on Federal land) allow the Good Samaritan to return to the abandoned hardrock mine site after the completion of the remediation to perform operations and maintenance or other work—
(1)
to ensure the functionality of completed remediation activities at the abandoned hardrock mine site; or
(2)
to protect public health and the environment.
(h)

Timing
Work authorized under a Good Samaritan permit—
(1)
shall commence, as applicable—
(A)
not later than the date that is 18 months after the date on which the Administrator granted the Good Samaritan permit, unless the Administrator grants an extension under subsection (r)(2)(A); or
(B)
if the grant of the Good Samaritan permit is the subject of a petition for judicial review, not later than the date that is 18 months after the date on which the judicial review, including any appeals, has concluded; and
(2)
shall continue until completed, with temporary suspensions permitted during adverse weather or other conditions specified in the Good Samaritan permit.
(i)

Transfer of permits
A Good Samaritan permit may be transferred to another person only if—
(1)
the Administrator determines that the transferee qualifies as a Good Samaritan;
(2)
the transferee signs, and agrees to be bound by the terms of, the permit;
(3)
the Administrator includes in the transferred permit any additional conditions necessary to meet the goals of this section; and
(4)
in the case of a project under the Good Samaritan permit on land owned by the United States, the head of the applicable Federal land management agency approves the transfer.
(j)

Role of administrator and federal land management agencies
In carrying out this section—
(1)
the Administrator shall—
(A)
consult with prospective applicants;
(B)
convene, coordinate, and lead the application review process;
(C)
maintain all records relating to the Good Samaritan permit and the permit process;
(D)
in the case of a proposed project on State, Tribal, or private land, provide an opportunity for cooperating persons and the public to participate in the Good Samaritan permit process, including—
(i)
carrying out environmental review and public comment procedures pursuant to subsection (l); and
(ii)
a public hearing, if requested; and
(E)
enforce and otherwise carry out this section; and
(2)
the head of an applicable Federal land management agency shall—
(A)
in the case of a proposed project on land owned by the United States, provide an opportunity for cooperating persons and the public to participate in the Good Samaritan permit process, including—
(i)
carrying out environmental review and public comment procedures pursuant to subsection (l); and
(ii)
a public hearing, if requested; and
(B)
in coordination with the Administrator, enforce Good Samaritan permits issued under this section for projects on land owned by the United States.
(k)

State, local, and tribal governments
As soon as practicable, but not later than 14 days after the date on which the Administrator receives an application for the remediation of an abandoned hardrock mine site under this section that, as determined by the Administrator, is complete and meets all applicable requirements of subsection (c), the Administrator shall provide notice and a copy of the application to—
(1)
each local government with jurisdiction over a drinking water utility, and each Indian tribe with reservation or off-reservation treaty rights to land or water, located downstream from or otherwise near a proposed remediation project that is reasonably anticipated to be impacted by the remediation project or a potential release of contaminants from the abandoned hardrock mine site, as determined by the Administrator;
(2)
each Federal, State, and Tribal agency that may have an interest in the application; and
(3)
in the case of an abandoned hardrock mine site that is located partially or entirely on land owned by the United States, the Federal land management agency with jurisdiction over that land.
(l)

Environmental review and public comment
(1)

In general
Before the issuance of a Good Samaritan permit to carry out a project for the remediation of an abandoned hardrock mine site, the Administrator shall ensure that environmental review and public comment procedures are carried out with respect to the proposed project.
(2)

Relation to NEPA
(A)

Major Federal action
Subject to subparagraph (F), the issuance or modification of a Good Samaritan permit by the Administrator shall be considered a major Federal action for purposes of section 102 of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4332).
(B)

Lead agency
The lead agency for purposes of an environmental assessment and public comment under this subsection shall be—
(i)
in the case of a proposed project on land owned by the United States that is managed by only 1 Federal land management agency, the applicable Federal land management agency;
(ii)
in the case of a proposed project entirely on State, Tribal, or private land, the Administrator;
(iii)
in the case of a proposed project partially on land owned by the United States and partially on State, Tribal, or private land, the applicable Federal land management agency; and
(iv)
in the case of a proposed project on land owned by the United States that is managed by more than 1 Federal land management agency, the Federal land management agency selected by the Administrator to be the lead agency, after consultation with the applicable Federal land management agencies.
(C)

Coordination
To the maximum extent practicable, the lead agency described in subparagraph (B) shall coordinate procedures under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) with State, Tribal, and Federal cooperating agencies, as applicable.
(D)

Cooperating agency
In the case of a proposed project on land owned by the United States, the Administrator shall be a cooperating agency for purposes of an environmental assessment and public comment under this subsection.
(E)

Single NEPA document
The lead agency described in subparagraph (B) may conduct a single environmental assessment for—
(i)
the issuance of a Good Samaritan permit;
(ii)
any activities authorized by a Good Samaritan permit; and
(iii)
any applicable permits required by the Secretary of the Interior or the Secretary of Agriculture.
(F)

No significant impact
(i)

In general
A Good Samaritan permit may only be issued if, after an environmental assessment, the head of the lead agency issues a finding of no significant impact (as defined in section 111 of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4336e)).
(ii)

Significant impact
If the head of the lead agency is unable to issue a finding of no significant impact (as so defined), the head of the lead agency shall not issue a Good Samaritan permit for the proposed project.
(G)

Decision document
An approval or denial of a Good Samaritan permit may be issued as a single decision document that is signed by—
(i)
the Administrator; and
(ii)
in the case of a project on land owned by the United States, the head of the applicable Federal land management agency.
(H)

Limitation
Nothing in this paragraph exempts the Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary of the Interior, as applicable, from any other requirements of section 102 of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4332).
(m)

Permit grant
(1)

In general
The Administrator may grant a Good Samaritan permit to carry out a project for the remediation of an abandoned hardrock mine site only if—
(A)
the Administrator determines that—
(i)
the person seeking the permit is a Good Samaritan;
(ii)
the application described in subsection (c) is complete;
(iii)
the project is designed to remediate historic mine residue at the abandoned hardrock mine site to protect human health and the environment;
(iv)
the proposed project is designed to meet all other goals, as determined by the Administrator, including any goals set forth in the application for the Good Samaritan permit that are accepted by the Administrator;
(v)
the proposed activities, as compared to the baseline conditions described in the permit, will make measurable progress toward achieving—
(I)
applicable water quality standards;
(II)
improved soil quality;
(III)
improved sediment quality;
(IV)
other improved environmental or safety conditions; or
(V)
reductions in threats to soil, sediment, or water quality or other environmental or safety conditions;
(vi)
the applicant has—
(I)
demonstrated that the applicant has the proper and appropriate experience and capacity to complete the permitted work;
(II)
demonstrated that the applicant will complete the permitted work;
(III)
the financial and other resources to address any contingencies identified in the Good Samaritan permit application described in subsections (b) and (c);
(IV)
granted access and provided the authority to review the records of the applicant relevant to compliance with the requirements of the Good Samaritan permit; and
(V)
demonstrated, to the satisfaction of the Administrator, that—
- (aa)
the applicant has, or has access to, the financial resources to complete the project described in the Good Samaritan permit application, including any long-term monitoring and operations and maintenance that the Administrator may require the applicant to perform in the Good Samaritan permit; or
- (bb)
the applicant has established a third-party financial assurance mechanism, such as a corporate guarantee from a parent or other corporate affiliate, letter of credit, trust, surety bond, or insurance to assure that funds are available to complete the permitted work, including for operations and maintenance and to address potential contingencies, that—
(AA)
establishes the Administrator or the head of the Federal land management agency as the beneficiary of the third-party financial assurance mechanism; and
(BB)
allows the Administrator to retain and use the funds from the financial assurance mechanism in the event the Good Samaritan does not complete the remediation under the Good Samaritan permit; and
(vii)
the project meets the requirements of this Act;
(B)
the State or Indian tribe with jurisdiction over land on which the abandoned hardrock mine site is located has been given an opportunity to review and, if necessary, comment on the grant of the Good Samaritan permit;
(C)
in the case of a project proposed to be carried out under the Good Samaritan permit partially or entirely on land owned by the United States, pursuant to subsection (l), the head of the applicable Federal land management agency has signed a decision document approving the proposed project; and
(D)
the Administrator or head of the Federal land management agency, as applicable, has provided—
(i)
environmental review and public comment procedures required by subsection (l); and
(ii)
a public hearing under that subsection, if requested.
(2)

Deadline
(A)

In general
The Administrator shall grant or deny a Good Samaritan permit by not later than—
(i)
the date that is 180 days after the date of receipt by the Administrator of an application for the Good Samaritan permit that, as determined by the Administrator, is complete and meets all applicable requirements of subsection (c); or
(ii)
such later date as may be determined by the Administrator with notification provided to the applicant.
(B)

Constructive denial
If the Administrator fails to grant or deny a Good Samaritan permit by the applicable deadline described in subparagraph (A), the application shall be considered to be denied.
(3)

Discretionary action
The issuance of a permit by the Administrator and the approval of a project by the head of an applicable Federal land management agency shall be considered to be discretionary actions taken in the public interest.
(n)

Effect of permits
(1)

In general
A Good Samaritan and any cooperating person undertaking remediation activities identified in, carried out pursuant to, and in compliance with, a covered permit—
(A)
shall be considered to be in compliance with all requirements (including permitting requirements) under the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq.) (including any law or regulation implemented by a State or Indian tribe under section 402 or 404 of that Act (33 U.S.C. 1342, 1344)) and the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9601 et seq.) during the term of the covered permit, after the termination of the Good Samaritan permit, and after declining to convert an investigative sampling permit into a Good Samaritan permit, as applicable;
(B)
shall not be required to obtain a permit under, or to comply with, section 301, 302, 306, 307, 402, or 404 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1311, 1312, 1316, 1317, 1342, 1344), or any State or Tribal standards or regulations approved by the Administrator under those sections of that Act, during the term of the covered permit, after the termination of the Good Samaritan permit, and after declining to convert an investigative sampling permit into a Good Samaritan permit, as applicable; and
(C)
shall not be required to obtain any authorizations, licenses, or permits that would otherwise not need to be obtained if the remediation was conducted pursuant to section 121 of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9621).
(2)

Unauthorized activities
(A)

In general
Any person (including a Good Samaritan or any cooperating person) that carries out any activity, including activities relating to mineral exploration, processing, beneficiation, or mining, including development, that is not authorized by the applicable covered permit shall be subject to all applicable law.
(B)

Liability
Any activity not authorized by a covered permit, as determined by the Administrator, may be subject to liability and enforcement under all applicable law, including—
(i)
the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq.); and
(ii)
the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9601 et seq.).
(3)

No enforcement or liability for Good Samaritans
(A)

In general
Subject to subparagraphs (D) and (E), a Good Samaritan or cooperating person that is conducting a remediation activity identified in, pursuant to, and in compliance with a covered permit shall not be subject to enforcement or liability described in subparagraph (B) for—
(i)
any actions undertaken that are authorized by the covered permit; or
(ii)
any past, present, or future releases, threats of releases, or discharges of hazardous substances, pollutants, or contaminants at or from the abandoned hardrock mine site that is the subject of the covered permit (including any releases, threats of releases, or discharges that occurred prior to the grant of the covered permit).
(B)

Enforcement or liability described
Enforcement or liability referred to in subparagraph (A) is enforcement, civil or criminal penalties, citizen suits and any liabilities for response costs, natural resource damage, or contribution under—
(i)
the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq.) (including under any law or regulation administered by a State or Indian tribe under that Act); or
(ii)
the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9601 et seq.).
(C)

Duration of applicability
Subparagraph (A) shall apply during the term of the covered permit, after the termination of the Good Samaritan permit, and after declining to convert an investigative sampling permit into a Good Samaritan permit, as applicable.
(D)

Other parties
Nothing in subparagraph (A) limits the liability of any person that is not described in that subparagraph.
(E)

Decline in environmental conditions
Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), if a Good Samaritan or cooperating person fails to comply with any term, condition, or limitation of a covered permit and that failure results in surface water quality or other environmental conditions that the Administrator determines are measurably worse than the baseline conditions as described in the permit (in the case of a Good Samaritan permit) or the conditions as described pursuant to subsection (d)(3)(B), if applicable (in the case of an investigative sampling permit), at the abandoned hardrock mine site, the Administrator shall—
(i)
notify the Good Samaritan or cooperating person, as applicable, of the failure to comply; and
(ii)
require the Good Samaritan or the cooperating person, as applicable, to undertake reasonable measures, as determined by the Administrator, to return surface water quality or other environmental conditions to those conditions.
(F)

Failure to correct
Subparagraph (A) shall not apply to a Good Samaritan or cooperating person that fails to take any actions required under subparagraph (E)(ii) within a reasonable period of time, as established by the Administrator.
(G)

Minor or corrected permit violations
For purposes of this paragraph, the failure to comply with a term, condition, or limitation of a Good Samaritan permit or investigative sampling permit shall not be considered a permit violation or noncompliance with that permit if—
(i)
that failure or noncompliance does not result in a measurable adverse impact, as determined by the Administrator, on water quality or other environmental conditions; or
(ii)
the Good Samaritan or cooperating person complies with subparagraph (E)(ii).
(o)

Public notification of adverse event
A Good Samaritan shall notify all appropriate Federal, State, Tribal, and local entities of any unplanned or previously unknown release of historic mine residue caused by the actions of the Good Samaritan or any cooperating person in accordance with—
(1)
section 103 of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9603);
(2)
section 304 of the Emergency Planning and Community Right-To-Know Act of 1986 (42 U.S.C. 11004);
(3)
the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq.);
(4)
any other applicable provision of Federal law; and
(5)
any other applicable provision of State, Tribal, or local law.
(p)

Grant eligibility
A remediation project conducted under a Good Samaritan permit shall be eligible for funding pursuant to—
(1)
section 319 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1329), for activities that are eligible for funding under that section; and
(2)
section 104(k) of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (42 U.S.C. 9604(k)), subject to the condition that the recipient of the funding is otherwise eligible under that section to receive a grant to assess or remediate contamination at the site covered by the Good Samaritan permit.
(q)

Emergency authority and liability
(1)

Emergency authority
Nothing in this section affects the authority of—
(A)
the Administrator to take any responsive action authorized by law; or
(B)
a Federal, State, Tribal, or local agency to carry out any emergency authority, including an emergency authority provided under Federal, State, Tribal, or local law.
(2)

Liability
Except as specifically provided in this Act, nothing in this Act, a Good Samaritan permit, or an investigative sampling permit limits the liability of any person (including a Good Samaritan or any cooperating person) under any provision of law.
(r)

Termination of Good Samaritan permit
(1)

In general
A Good Samaritan permit shall terminate, as applicable—
(A)
on inspection and notice from the Administrator to the recipient of the Good Samaritan permit that the permitted work has been completed in accordance with the terms of the Good Samaritan permit, as determined by the Administrator;
(B)
if the Administrator terminates a permit under paragraph (4)(B); or
(C)
except as provided in paragraph (2)—
(i)
on the date that is 18 months after the date on which the Administrator granted the Good Samaritan permit, if the permitted work has not commenced by that date; or
(ii)
if the grant of the Good Samaritan permit was the subject of a petition for judicial review, on the date that is 18 months after the date on which the judicial review, including any appeals, has concluded, if the permitted work has not commenced by that date.
(2)

Extension
(A)

In general
If the Administrator is otherwise required to terminate a Good Samaritan permit under paragraph (1)(C), the Administrator may grant an extension of the Good Samaritan permit.
(B)

Limitation
Any extension granted under subparagraph (A) shall be not more than 180 days for each extension.
(3)

Effect of termination
(A)

In general
Notwithstanding the termination of a Good Samaritan permit under paragraph (1), but subject to subparagraph (B), the provisions of paragraphs (1) through (4) of subsection (n) shall continue to apply to the Good Samaritan and any cooperating persons after the termination, including to any long-term operations and maintenance pursuant to the agreement under paragraph (5).
(B)

Degradation of surface water quality
(i)

Opportunity to return to baseline conditions
If, at the time that 1 or more of the conditions described in paragraph (1) are met but before the Good Samaritan permit is terminated, actions by the Good Samaritan or cooperating person have caused surface water quality at the abandoned hardrock mine site to be measurably worse, as determined by the Administrator, when compared to baseline conditions described in the permit, the Administrator shall, before terminating the Good Samaritan permit, provide the Good Samaritan or cooperating person, as applicable, the opportunity to return surface water quality to those baseline conditions.
(ii)

Effect
If, pursuant to clause (i), the applicable Good Samaritan or cooperating person does not return the surface water quality at the abandoned hardrock mine site to the baseline conditions described in the permit, as determined by the Administrator, subparagraph (A) shall not apply to the Good Samaritan or any cooperating persons.
(4)

Unforeseen circumstances
(A)

In general
The recipient of a Good Samaritan permit may seek to modify or terminate the Good Samaritan permit to take into account any event or condition that—
(i)
significantly reduces the feasibility or significantly increases the cost of completing the remediation project that is the subject of the Good Samaritan permit;
(ii)
was not—
(I)
reasonably contemplated by the recipient of the Good Samaritan permit; or
(II)
taken into account in the remediation plan of the recipient of the Good Samaritan permit; and
(iii)
is beyond the control of the recipient of the Good Samaritan permit, as determined by the Administrator.
(B)

Termination
The Administrator shall terminate a Good Samaritan permit if—
(i)
the recipient of the Good Samaritan permit seeks termination of the permit under subparagraph (A);
(ii)
the factors described in subparagraph (A) are satisfied; and
(iii)
the Administrator determines that remediation activities conducted by the Good Samaritan or cooperating person pursuant to the Good Samaritan permit may result in surface water quality conditions, or any other environmental conditions, that will be worse than the baseline conditions, as described in the Good Samaritan permit, as applicable.
(5)

Long-term operations and maintenance
In the case of a project that involves long-term operations and maintenance at an abandoned hardrock mine site located on land owned by the United States, the project may be considered complete and the Administrator, in coordination with the applicable Federal land management agency, may terminate the Good Samaritan permit under this subsection if the applicable Good Samaritan has entered into an agreement with the applicable Federal land management agency or a cooperating person for the long-term operations and maintenance that includes sufficient funding for the long-term operations and maintenance.
(s)

Regulations
(1)

In general
Subject to paragraph (2), the Administrator, in consultation with the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture, and appropriate State, Tribal, and local officials, may promulgate any regulations that the Administrator determines to be necessary to carry out this Act.
(2)

Guidance if no regulations promulgated
(A)

In general
If the Administrator does not initiate a regulatory process to promulgate regulations under paragraph (1) within 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator, in consultation with the Secretary of the Interior, the Secretary of Energy, and appropriate State, Tribal, and local officials, shall issue guidance establishing specific requirements that the Administrator determines would facilitate the implementation of this section.
(B)

Public comments
Before finalizing any guidance issued under subparagraph (A), the Administrator shall hold a 30-day public comment period.
5.

Special accounts
(a)

Establishment
There is established in the Treasury of the United States a Good Samaritan Mine Remediation Fund (referred to in this section as a “Fund”) for—
(1)
each Federal land management agency that authorizes a Good Samaritan to conduct a project on Federal land under the jurisdiction of that Federal land management agency under a Good Samaritan permit; and
(2)
the Environmental Protection Agency.
(b)

Deposits
Each Fund shall consist of—
(1)
amounts provided in appropriation Acts;
(2)
any proceeds from reprocessing deposited under section 4(f)(4)(B)(iv);
(3)
any financial assurance funds collected from an agreement described in section 4(m)(1)(A)(vi)(V)(bb);
(4)
any funds collected for long-term operations and maintenance under an agreement under section 4(r)(5);
(5)
any interest earned under an investment under subsection (c);
(6)
any proceeds from the sale or redemption of investments held in the Fund; and
(7)
any amounts donated to the Fund by any person.
(c)

Unused funds
Amounts in each Fund not currently needed to carry out this Act shall be—
(1)
maintained as readily available or on deposit;
(2)
invested in obligations of the United States or guaranteed by the United States; or
(3)
invested in obligations, participations, or other instruments that are lawful investments for a fiduciary, a trust, or public funds.
(d)

Retain and use authority
The Administrator and each head of a Federal land management agency, as appropriate, may, notwithstanding any other provision of law, retain and use money deposited in the applicable Fund without fiscal year limitation for the purpose of carrying out this Act.
6.

Report to Congress
(a)

In general
Not later than 8 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator, in consultation with the heads of Federal land management agencies, shall submit to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committees on Transportation and Infrastructure, Energy and Commerce, and Natural Resources of the House of Representatives a report evaluating the Good Samaritan pilot program under this Act.
(b)

Inclusions
The report under subsection (a) shall include—
(1)
a description of—
(A)
the number, types, and objectives of Good Samaritan permits granted pursuant to this Act; and
(B)
each remediation project authorized by those Good Samaritan permits;
(2)
interim or final qualitative and quantitative data on the results achieved under the Good Samaritan permits before the date of issuance of the report;
(3)
a description of—
(A)
any problems encountered in administering this Act; and
(B)
whether the problems have been or can be remedied by administrative action (including amendments to existing law);
(4)
a description of progress made in achieving the purposes of this Act; and
(5)
recommendations on whether the Good Samaritan pilot program under this Act should be continued, including a description of any modifications (including amendments to existing law) required to continue administering this Act.
January 25, 2024
Reported with an amendment