[Federal Register Volume 64, Number 242 (Friday, December 17, 1999)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 70644-70650]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 99-32740]


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DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement

30 CFR Part 938

[PA-129-FOR]


Pennsylvania Regulatory Program

AGENCY: Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSM), 
Interior.

ACTION: Proposed rule; public comment period and opportunity for public 
hearing.

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SUMMARY: OSM is announcing the receipt of a proposed amendment to the 
Pennsylvania regulatory program (Pennsylvania program) under the 
Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 (SMCRA), 30 U.S.C. 
1201 et seq., as amended. Pennsylvania has submitted this proposed 
amendment to reflect changes made to regulations in the Pennsylvania 
program through the Department's Regulatory Basics Initiative (RBI). 
Under this initiative, regulations were revised because they were 
considered to be unclear, unnecessary or more stringent than the 
corresponding Federal regulation. The RBI resulted in the rulemaking in 
Coal Mining Permitting and Performance Standards, Pennsylvania 
Bulletin, Vol. 28, No. 19, May 9, 1998. The proposed amendment revises 
certain portions of 25 Pennsylvania Code Chapter 86, Surface and 
Underground Mining: General; Chapter 87, Surface Mining of Coal; 
Chapter 88, Anthracite Coal; Chapter 89, Underground Mining of Coal and 
Coal Preparation Facilities; and Chapter 90, Coal Refuse Disposal. The 
amendments are intended to revise the Pennsylvania program to be 
consistent with the corresponding Federal regulations.

DATES: Written comments must be received on or before 4:00 p.m. on 
January 18, 2000. If requested, a public hearing on the proposed 
amendments will be held at 1:00 p.m. on January 11, 2000. Requests to 
present oral testimony at the hearing must be received on or before 
4:00 p.m. on January 3, 2000.

ADDRESSES: Written comments and requests to testify at the hearing 
should be mailed or hand-delivered to Mr. Robert J. Biggi, Director, 
Harrisburg Field Office at the first address listed below. Our practice 
is to make comments, including names and home addresses of respondents, 
available for public review during regular business hours. Individual 
respondents may request that we withhold their home address from the 
rulemaking [or administrative] record, which we will honor to the 
extent allowable by law. There also may be circumstances in which we 
would withhold from the rulemaking [or administrative] record a 
respondent's identity, as allowable by law. If you wish us to withhold 
your name and/or address, you must state this prominently at the 
beginning of your comment. However, we will not consider anonymous 
comments. We will make all submissions from organizations or 
businesses, and from individuals identifying themselves as 
representatives or officials of organizations or businesses, available 
for public inspection in their entirety.
    Copies of the Pennsylvania program, the proposed amendment, a 
listing of any scheduled public meetings or hearing, and all written 
comments received in response to this notice will be available for 
public review at the addresses listed below during normal business 
hours, Monday through Friday, excluding holidays:

Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement, Harrisburg Field 
Office, Third Floor, Suite 3C, Harrisburg Transportation Center 
(Amtrack), 415 Market Street, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania 17101. 
Telephone: (717) 782-4036.
Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Bureau of 
Abandoned Mine Reclamation, 400 Market Street, P.O. Box 8476, 
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania 17101. Telephone: (717) 783-2267.

    Each requester may receive, free of charge, one copy of the 
proposed amendment by contacting the OSM Harrisburg Field Office.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mr. Robert J. Biggi, Director, 
Harrisburg Field Office, Telephone: (717) 782-4036.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

I. Background on the Pennsylvania Program

    On July 30, 1982, the Secretary of the Interior conditionally 
approved the Pennsylvania program. Background on the Pennsylvania 
program, including the Secretary's findings and the disposition of 
comments can be found in the July 30, 1982 Federal Register (47 FR 
33079). Subsequent actions concerning the regulatory program amendments 
are identified at 30 CFR 938.15.

II. Discussion of the Proposed Amendment

    By letter dated November 30, 1999 (Administrative Record No. PA-
849.02), the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection 
(PADEP) submitted a proposed amendment to its program because of the 
department's Regulatory Basics Initiative (RBI). Under the RBI, 
regulations were revised because they were considered unclear, 
unnecessary or were more stringent than the corresponding federal 
regulations.
    PADEP proposes to amend certain provisions of 25 Pennsylvania Code, 
Chapters 86 through 90, as follows:

Chapter 86, Surface and Underground Coal Mining: General

Section 86.2  Scope

    PADEP proposes to correct a grammatical error by changing the word 
``specify'' to ``specifies'' in the opening paragraph.

Section 86.37.  Criteria for Permit Approval or Denial

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (4) to assure activities 
proposed under the application have been designed to prevent material 
damage to the hydrologic balance outside the proposed permit area by 
adding the word ``material'' before damage and eliminating the words 
``within and'' before the word ``outside''.
    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (6) regarding the effects of 
proposed coal mining activities on properties listed on or eligible for 
listing on the National Register of Historic Places by deleting the 
phrase ``or eligible for inclusion on'' from the second sentence and 
re-ordering the sentences. The first two sentences of subsection (6) 
now read as: ``The proposed activities will not adversely affect any 
publicly owned parks or places included on the National Register of 
Historic Places, except as provided for in Subchapter D. The effect of 
the proposed coal mining activities on properties listed on or eligible 
for listing on the National Register of Historic Places has been taken 
into account by the Department''.

Section 86.40  Permit Terms

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (b) by adding criteria under 
which the Department may grant an extension of time for commencement of 
mining activities by adding the phrase ``or if there are conditions 
beyond the control and without the fault or negligence of the 
permittee''.

[[Page 70645]]

Section 86.64  Right of Entry

    PADEP proposes to modify this section by adding additional criteria 
for documenting right of entry by adding the following sentence to 
subsection (a) ``The description shall identify the documents by type 
and date of execution, identify the specific lands to which the 
document pertains and explain the legal rights claimed by the 
applicant''. Existing subsection (b)(1) and (2) are eliminated and new 
subsections (b)(1) through (3) are added specifying the documents 
required. New subsection (c) is added as ``This section shall not be 
construed to provide the Department with the authority to adjudicate 
property rights disputes''. Existing subsection (c) is re-lettered as 
(d), new subsection (d)(3) is added to specify that the requirements of 
the subsection are in addition to the requirements required by 
subsections (a) and (b), and existing subsections (2)(d) and (2)(e) are 
re-lettered as(3)(e) and (3)(f), respectively, which specify that all 
information required in the subsection shall be made part of the permit 
application.

Section 86.70  Proof of Publication

    PADEP proposes to modify this subsection to require that an 
application to the Department shall contain an intent to publish, and a 
copy of the language to appear in the public notice as well as a copy 
of the advertisements or the original notarized proof of publication.

Section 86.132  Definitions

    Substantially disturb. PADEP proposes to modify this definition by 
adding the word ``significant'' before ``impact''. The relevant portion 
of the definition now reads ``For purposes of coal exploration, 
including, but not limited to, to have a significant impact upon land, 
air or water resources * * *''

Section 86.133  General Requirements

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (e) to include parameters for 
metric tons, and to change the word ``less than'' to ``or less'' and to 
change the words ``or more'' to ``more than''. The relevant portion of 
the requirement now reads ``if 250 tons(226 metric tons) or less is 
removed'', and ``The removal of more than 250 tons (226 metric tons) of 
coal * * *''

Section 86.134  Coal Exploration Performance and Design Standards

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (l) by eliminating existing 
subsections (2) and (3) that required the person conducting coal 
exploration to measure environmental characteristics during the 
operations and to limit vehicular traffic and adding new subsection (2) 
that states ``Roads used for coal exploration shall comply with the 
following''. Existing subsections (4) and (5) are re-numbered as (3) 
and (4), existing subsection (6) is eliminated and new subsection (5) 
is added as follows: ``All areas disturbed by coal exploration 
activities shall be vegetated in a manner that encourages prompt 
revegetation and recovery of a diverse, effective and permanent 
vegetative cover''. Additionally, existing subsections (7) through (12) 
are re-numbered as (6) through (11) respectively.

Section 86.174  Standards for Release of Bonds

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (b)(1) to clarify the standards 
for Stage 2 bond release by requiring that topsoil and revegetation be 
successfully completed in accordance with the reclamation plan. The 
phrase ``and the standards for the success of revegetation are met'' is 
eliminated. PADEP also proposes to make a grammatical change to 
Subsection (b)(2) by changing the word ``their'' to ``the'' prior to 
``requirements of the acts pertaining to contribution of suspended 
solids to stream flow''.

Chapter 87, Surface Mining of Coal

Section 87.1  Definitions

    PADEP proposes to add subsection (x) ``unmanaged natural habitat'', 
which is defined as idle land which does not require a specific 
management plan after the reclamation and revegetation have been 
accomplished.

Section 87.77  Protection of Public Parks and Historic Places

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (a) by specifying that the 
rules pertain to publicly owned parks or historic places that are 
listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Section 87.93  Casing and Sealing of Drilled Holes

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (a)(2) by substituting the word 
``minimize'' for the phrase ``prevent to the maximum extent possible'' 
and adding a metric measurement of 38.1 meters to subsection (e) 
pertaining to the radius of the barrier of undisturbed earth around all 
oil and gas wells.
    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (2)(iii) pertaining to when the 
Department may approve lesser distances by deleting the existing 
language and adding the following: ``The measures included in the 
permit to minimize damage, destruction or disruption of services 
pursuant to Sec. 87.173(b) are implemented.

Section 87.97  Topsoil: Removal

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (c) by including metric 
measurements of 30.48 centimeters with the 12-inch measurement and to 
modify subsection (f) by substituting the word ``topsoil'' for 
``subsoil.''

Section 87.101  Hydrologic Balance: General Requirements

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (a) by substituting the word 
``minimize'' for the phrase ``prevent to the maximum extent possible'' 
and by adding a requirement that surface mining activities shall be 
planned and conducted to prevent material damage to the hydrologic 
balance outside the permit area. PADEP further proposes to add that the 
Department may require additional preventative, remedial, or monitoring 
measures to assure that material damage to the hydrologic balance 
outside the permit area is prevented.

Section 87.106  Hydrologic Balance: Sediment Control Measures

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (l) pertaining to prevention of 
contributions of sediment to streamflow or runoff by eliminating the 
word ``maximum'' prior to the words ``extent possible''.
    PADEP also proposes to modify subsection (3) by changing the 
language of the requirement from ``Prevent erosion to the maximum 
extent possible'' to ``Minimize erosion to the extent possible.''

Section 87.126  Use of Explosives: Public Notice of Blasting Schedule

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (a) by allowing publication of 
the blasting schedule in a newspaper of general circulation up to 30 
days before beginning a blasting program instead of the existing 20 day 
period.

Section 87.127  Use of Explosives: Surface Blasting Requirements

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (f)(5) by changing the limit 
for casting-off flyrock from the ``line of property owned or leased by 
the permittee'' to the ``permit boundary''.

Section 87.138  Protection of Fish, Wildlife and Related Environmental 
Values

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (a) by adding the phrase ``to 
the extent possible'' prior to the phrase ``using the best technology 
currently available''. PADEP also proposes to modify

[[Page 70646]]

subsections (a)(1) through (a)(3) by eliminating the word ``prevent'' 
and substituting the words ``minimize'', ``avoid or minimize'' and 
``avoid'' respectively, as they pertain to disturbances.
    PADEP also proposes to modify subsection (b) by changing the name 
of the Fish Commission to the Fish and Boat Commission.

Section 87.144  Backfilling and Grading: Final Slopes

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (c) by deleting subsections (1) 
through (4) enumerating requirements for terraces. PADEP also proposes 
to modify subsection (f) by eliminating specific grading, preparation 
of overburden, and placement of topsoil requirements pertaining to 
placement in a direction other than parallel when parallel placement 
creates hazards to equipment operators.

Section 87.146  Regarding or Stabilizing Rills and Gullies

    PADEP proposes to eliminate the existing subsection and substitute 
the following new subsections:
    (a) Exposed surface areas shall be protected and stabilized to 
effectively control erosion and air pollution attendant to erosion.
    (b) Rills and gullies, which form in areas that have been regraded 
and topsoiled and which do one of the following shall be filled, 
regraded and otherwise stabilized:
    (1) Disrupt the approved postmining land use or the reestablishment 
of the vegetative cover.
    (2) Cause or contribute to a violation of water quality standards 
for receiving streams.
    (c) For the areas listed in subsection (b), the topsoil shall be 
replaced and the areas shall be reseeded or replanted.

Section 87.159  Postmining Land Use

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (b) by eliminating subsections 
(3) and (4) pertaining to land that has received improper management or 
was changed within 5 years of the beginning of mining.
    PADEP also proposes to add new subsection (3) as follows: ``The 
proposed postmining land use is reasonably likely to be achieved which 
may be demonstrated by one or more of the following or other similar 
criteria'': Criteria currently identified in subsections (3), (4), and 
(5) are re-lettered as (i), (ii) and (iii) respectively, under new 
subsection (3).
    PADEP also proposes to eliminate subsection (6) pertaining to 
certification of plans for postmining land use by a registered 
professional engineer. Existing subsections (7), (8) and (9) are re-
numbered as (4), (5) and (6), respectively.

Section 87.160  Haul Roads and Access Roads

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (a) by eliminating the phrase 
``prevent, to the maximum extent possible'', and substituting the words 
``control or prevent'' prior to ``erosion and contributions of sediment 
to streams or runoff * * *''.

Section 87.166  Haul Roads and Access Roads: Restoration

    PADEP proposes to modify this subsection by substituting the phrase 
``as soon as practicable'' for the word ``immediately''.
    PADEP also proposes to modify subsection (4) by eliminating the 
requirement that roadbeds be plowed. The subsection now reads 
``Roadbeds shall be ripped or scarified''.

Section 87.173  Support Facilities and Utility Installations

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (a) by eliminating criteria 
from the opening paragraph and deleting subsections (1) and (2). The 
criteria to locate, maintain and use buildings is now included in new 
subsections (1), (2), (2)(i) and (2)(ii) as follows:
    (1) Prevents or controls erosion and siltation, water pollution, 
and damage to public or private property.
    (2) To the extent possible using the best technology currently 
available:
    (i) Minimizes damage to fish, wildlife and related environmental 
values.
    (ii) Minimizes additional contributions of suspended solids to 
streamflow or runoff outside the permit area. These contributions may 
not be in excess of limitations of State or Federal law.

Section 87.174  Steep Slope Operations

    PADEP proposes to eliminate subsection (g) pertaining to 
Departmental approval of unprotected drainage channels on backfilled 
areas.

Section 87.176  Auger Mining

    PADEP proposes to delete subsection (d) pertaining to augering to 
the rise. Existing subsection (e) is re-lettered as (d) and further 
modified to outline situations where the Department may allow auger 
mining in subsections (d)(1) through (d)(4).

Section 87.209  Criteria and Schedule for Release of Bonds on Pollution 
Abatement Areas

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (a) by raising the amount of 
bond to release from 50% to 60%. PADEP also proposes to modify 
subsection (a)(4) to specify that the operator has not caused 
degradation of baseline pollution at any time during a period of 6 
months prior to request for bond release. PADEP further proposes to 
modify subsection (b) by deleting the phrase that allows release of 
additional bond up to 35% of the amount of the bond for the authorized 
pollution abatement area and substituting the phrase that additional 
funds can be released, but that the Department will retain an amount 
sufficient to cover the cost to the Department of reestablishing 
vegetation if completed by a third party.
    PADEP also proposes to modify subsection (b)(3)(ii)(I) by deleting 
the phrase ``from the date of the initial bond release under subsection 
(a)'' and substituting the phrase ``prior to the date of application 
for bond release and until the bond release is approved under 
subsection (b) * * *'' as it pertains to the 12 month period of ground 
water monitoring that does not show degradation of baseline pollution 
load.
    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (c)(4) pertaining to the 
release of the remaining portion of the bond by deleting the phrase 
``which shall be measured from the date of release of bond under 
subsection (b).''

Chapter 88, Anthracite Coal

Section 88.1  Definitions

    PADEP proposes to add subsection (x) ``unmanaged natural habitat'', 
which is defined as idle land which does not require a specific 
management plan after the reclamation and revegetation have been 
accomplished.

Section 88.56  Protection of Public Parks and Historic Places

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (a) by specifying that the 
rules pertain to publicly owned parks or historic places that are 
listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Section 88.83  Sealing of Drilled Holes: General Requirements

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (a)(2) by substituting the word 
``minimize'' for the phrase ``prevent to the maximum extent possible'' 
and adding a metric measurement of 38.1 meters to subsection (e) 
pertaining to the radius of the barrier of undisturbed earth around oil 
and gas wells.
    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (2)(iii) pertaining to when the 
Department may approve lesser distances by deleting the existing 
language and adding the following: ``The measures included in the 
permit to minimize damage, destruction or

[[Page 70647]]

disruption of services are implemented.''

Section 88.91  Hydrologic Balance: General Requirements

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (a) by substituting the word 
``minimize'' for the phrase ``prevent to the maximum extent possible'' 
and by adding a requirement that surface mining activities shall be 
planned and conducted to prevent material damage to the hydrologic 
balance outside the permit area. PADEP further proposes to add that the 
Department may require additional preventative, remedial, or monitoring 
measures to assure that material damage to the hydrologic balance 
outside the permit area is prevented.

Section 88.96  Hydrologic Balance: Sediment Control Measures

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (l) pertaining to prevention of 
contributions of sediment to streamflow or runoff by eliminating the 
word ``maximum'' prior to the words ``extent possible''.
    PADEP also proposes to modify subsection (3) by changing the 
language of the requirement from ``Prevent erosion to the maximum 
extent possible'' to ``Minimize erosion to the extent possible.''

Section 88.118  Backfilling and Grading: Final Slopes

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (c) by deleting subsections (1) 
through (4) enumerating requirements for terraces. PADEP also proposes 
to modify subsection (f) by eliminating specific grading, preparation 
of overburden, and placement of topsoil requirements pertaining to 
placement in a direction other than parallel when parallel placement 
creates hazards to equipment operators.

Section 88.133  Postmining Land Use

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (a) by deleting the reference 
to Subchapter E (relating to coal exploration) and adding the reference 
to Subchapter F (relating to bonding and insurance requirements).
    PADEP also proposes to modify subsection (b) by eliminating 
subsections (3) and (4) pertaining to land that has received improper 
management or was changed within 5 years of the beginning of mining.
    PADEP also proposes to add new subsection (3) as follows: ``The 
proposed postmining land use is reasonably likely to be achieved which 
may be demonstrated by one or more of the following or other similar 
criteria': Criteria currently identified in subsections (3) and (4) are 
re-lettered as (i), (ii) respectively under new subsection (3).
    PADEP also proposes to eliminate subsection (5) pertaining to 
certification of plans for postmining land use by a registered 
professional engineer. Existing subsections (6), (7) and (8) are re-
numbered as (4), (5) and (6), respectively.

Section 88.138  Haul Roads and Access Roads: General

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (a) by eliminating the phrase 
``prevent, to the maximum extent possible'', and substituting the words 
``control or prevent'' prior to ``erosion and contributions of sediment 
to streams or runoff * * *''.

Section 88.144  Haul Roads and Access Roads: Restoration

    PADEP proposes to modify this subsection by substituting the phrase 
``as soon as practicable'' for the word ``immediately''.

Section 88.191  Hydrologic Balance: Sediment Control Measures

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (l) pertaining to prevention of 
contributions of sediment to streamflow or runoff by eliminating the 
word ``maximum'' prior to the words ``extent possible''.
    PADEP also proposes to modify subsection (3) by changing the 
requirement from ``Prevent erosion to the maximum extent possible'' to 
``Minimize erosion to the extent possible.''

Section 88.221  Postmining Land Use

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (b) by eliminating subsections 
(3) and (4) pertaining to land that has received improper management or 
was changed within 5 years of the beginning of mining. PADEP also 
proposes to add new subsection (3) as follows: ``The proposed 
postmining land use is reasonably likely to be achieved which may be 
demonstrated by one or more of the following or other similar 
criteria'': Criteria currently identified in subsections (3) and (4) 
are re-lettered as (i) and (ii) respectively under new subsection (3).
    PADEP also proposes to eliminate subsection (5) pertaining to 
certification of plans for postmining land use by a registered 
professional engineer. Existing subsections (6), (7) and (8) are 
renumbered as (4), (5) and (6), respectively.

Section 88.231  Haul Roads and Access Roads: General

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (a) by eliminating the phrase 
``prevent, to the maximum extent possible'', and substituting the words 
``control or prevent'' prior to ``erosion and contributions of sediment 
to streams or runoff . . .''.

Section 88.237  Haul Roads and Access Roads: Restoration

    PADEP proposes to modify this subsection by substituting the phrase 
``as soon as practicable'' for the word ``immediately''.

Section 88.283  Sealing of Drilled Holes: General Requirements

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (e) by adding a metric 
measurement of 38.1 meters pertaining to the radius of the barrier of 
undisturbed earth around all oil and gas wells.
    PADEP also proposes to modify subsection (2)(iii) pertaining to 
approval of lesser distances by deleting the existing language and 
adding the following: ``The measures included in the permit to minimize 
damage, destruction or disruption of services are implemented.''

Section 88.291  Hydrologic Balance: General Requirements

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (a) by substituting the word 
``minimize'' for the phrase ``prevent to the maximum extent possible'' 
and by adding a requirement that surface mining activities shall be 
planned and conducted to prevent material damage to the hydrologic 
balance outside the permit area. PADEP further proposes to add that the 
Department may require additional preventative, remedial, or monitoring 
measures to assure that material damage to the hydrologic balance 
outside the permit area is prevented.

Section 88.296  Hydrologic Balance: Sediment Control Measures

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (l) pertaining to prevention of 
contributions of sediment to streamflow or runoff by eliminating the 
word ``maximum'' prior to the words ``extent possible''.

Section 88.334  Postdisposal Land Use

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (a) by changing the reference 
from ``this section (bonds)'' to ``Chapter 86, Subchapter F, (relating 
to bonding and insurance requirements)''.
    PADEP also proposes to modify subsection (b) by eliminating 
subsections (3) and (4) pertaining to

[[Page 70648]]

land that has received improper management or was changed within 5 
years of the beginning of mining.
    PADEP also proposes to modify subsection (c)(1) by deleting the 
reference to ``surface mining'' and substituting ``coal refuse 
disposal''.
    PADEP also proposes to add new subsection (3) as follows: ``The 
proposed postmining land use is reasonably likely to be achieved which 
may be demonstrated by one or more of the following or other similar 
criteria': Criteria currently identified in subsections (3) and (4) are 
re-lettered as (i) and (ii) respectively, under new subsection (3), and 
(i) is further changed by deleting the reference to ``surface mining'' 
and substituting ``coal refuse disposal''.
    PADEP also proposes to eliminate subsection (5) pertaining to 
certification of plans for postdisposal land use by a registered 
professional engineer. Existing subsections (6), (7), and (8) are re-
numbered as (4), (5) and (6), respectively.

Section 88.335  Haul Roads and Access Roads: General

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (a) by eliminating the phrase 
``prevent, to the maximum extent possible'', and substituting the words 
``control or prevent'' prior to ``erosion and contributions of sediment 
to streams or runoff . . .''.

Section 88.341  Haul Roads and Access Roads: Restoration

    PADEP proposes to modify this subsection by substituting the phrase 
``as soon as practicable'' for the word ``immediately''.

Section 88.492  Minimum Requirements for Reclamation and Operation Plan

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (f)(1) by specifying that the 
rules pertain to publicly owned parks or historic places that are 
listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Section 88.509  Criteria and Schedule For Release of Bonds on Pollution 
Abatement Areas.

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (a) by raising the amount of 
bond to release from 50% to 60%. PADEP also proposes to modify 
subsection (a)(4) to specify that the operator has not caused 
degradation of baseline pollution at any time during a period of 6 
months prior to request for bond release. PADEP further proposes to 
modify subsection (b) by deleting the phrase that allows release of 
additional bond up to 35% of the amount of the bond for the authorized 
pollution abatement area and substituting the phrase that additional 
funds can be released, but that the Department will retain an amount 
sufficient to cover the cost to the Department of reestablishing 
vegetation if completed by a third party.
    PADEP also proposes to modify subsection (b)(3)(ii)(I) by deleting 
the phrase ``from the date of the initial bond release under subsection 
(a)'' and substituting the phrase ``prior to the date of application 
for bond release and until the bond release is approved under 
subsection (b)'' as it pertains to the 12 month period of ground water 
monitoring that does not show degradation of baseline pollution load.
    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (c)(4) pertaining to the 
release of the remaining portion of the bond by deleting the phrase 
``which shall be measured from the date of release of bond under 
subsection (b).''

Chapter 89, Underground Mining of Coal and Coal Preparation Facilities

Section 89.38  Archaeological and Historical Resources and Public Parks

    PADEP proposes to re-title this section as Archaeological and 
historical resources, public parks and publicly owned parks.
    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (b) by specifying that the 
rules pertain to publicly owned parks or historic places that are 
listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Section 89.65  Protection of Fish, Wildlife and Related Environmental 
Values

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (a) by adding the phrase ``to 
the extent possible'' prior to the phrase ``using the best technology 
currently available'' and by changing the word ``prevent'' to 
``minimize'' prior to the word ``disturbances.''
    PADEP also proposes to modify subsections (d)(1) and (d)(2) by 
eliminating the word ``prevent'' and substituting the words ``avoid or 
minimize'' and ``avoid'' respectively, as they pertain to disturbances. 
Subsection (d)(2) is further modified by requiring an operator to avoid 
disturbances to enhance or restore habitats of unusually high value for 
fish and wildlife.

Section 89.67  Support Facilities

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (a) by eliminating criteria 
from the opening paragraph and deleting subsections (1) and (2). The 
criteria to locate, maintain and use buildings is now included in new 
subsections (1), (2), (2)(i) and (2)(ii) as follows:
    (1) Prevents or controls erosion and siltation, water pollution, 
and damage to public or private property.
    (2) To the extent possible using the best technology currently 
available:
    (i) Minimizes damage to fish, wildlife and related environmental 
values.
    (ii) Minimizes additional contributions of suspended solids to 
streamflow or runoff outside the permit area. These contributions may 
not be in excess of limitations of State or Federal law.

Section 89.82  Protection of Fish, Wildlife and Related Environmental 
Values

    PADEP proposes to modify subsections (a) and (c) by adding the 
phrase ``to the extent possible'' prior to the phrase ``using the best 
technology currently available'' and by deleting the phrase ``of the 
reclamation activities'' in subsection (a).
    PADEP also proposes to modify subsections (b) and (e) by changing 
the name of the Fish Commission to the Fish and Boat Commission.

Section 89.87  Regrading or Stabilizing Rills and Gullies

    PADEP proposes to eliminate the existing subsections and substitute 
the following new subsections:
    (a) Exposed surface areas shall be protected and stabilized to 
effectively control erosion and air pollution attendant to erosion.
    (b) Rills and gullies, which form in areas that have been regraded 
and topsoiled and which do one of the following shall be filled, 
regraded and otherwise stabilized:
    (1) Disrupt the approved postmining land use or the reestablishment 
of the vegetative cover.
    (2) Cause or contribute to a violation of water quality standards 
for receiving streams.
    (c) For the areas listed in subsection (b), the topsoil shall be 
replaced and the areas shall be reseeded or replanted.

Section 89.88  Postmining Land Use

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (b) by eliminating subsections 
(2) and (3) pertaining to land that has received improper management or 
was changed within 5 years of the beginning of mining.
    PADEP also proposes to add new subsection (2) as follows: The 
proposed postmining land use is reasonably likely to be achieved which 
may be demonstrated by one or more of the following or other similar 
criteria: Criteria currently identified in subsection (2) is now 
included in subsection (i).

[[Page 70649]]

    PADEP also proposes to eliminate subsection (3) pertaining to 
certification of plans for postmining land use by a registered 
professional engineer. Existing subsections (4), (5), (6) and (7) are 
renumbered as (3), (4), (5) and (6), respectively.

Section 89.90  Restoration of Roads

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (a) by substituting the phrase 
``as soon as practicable'' for the word ``immediately''.
    PADEP also proposes to modify subsection (4) by eliminating the 
requirement that roadbeds be plowed. The subsection now reads 
``Roadbeds shall be ripped or scarified''.

Chapter 90, Coal Refuse Disposal

Section 90.1  Definitions

    PADEP proposes to add subsection (x) ``unmanaged natural habitat'', 
which is defined as idle land which does not require a specific 
management plan after the reclamation and revegetation have been 
accomplished.

Section 90.40  Protection of Public Parks and Historic Places

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (a) by specifying that the 
rules pertain to publicly owned parks or historic places that are 
listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
    PADEP also proposes to modify subsections (a)(1) and (a)(2) by 
deleting the word ``to'' before ``prevent'' and ``minimize'' 
respectively.

Section 90.93  Casing and Sealing of Drilled Holes and Underground 
Workings

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (d) by deleting the reference 
to the requirements of the Gas Operations, Well-Drilling, Petroleum and 
Coal Mining Act (52 P.S. Sec. 2101-2602) and adding a reference to the 
Oil and Gas Act (58 P.S. Secs. 601.101-601.605).
    PADEP also proposes to add a metric measurement of 38.1 meters to 
subsection (e) pertaining to the radius of the barrier of undisturbed 
earth around all oil and gas wells.
    PADEP further proposes to modify subsection (2)(iii) pertaining to 
when the Department may approve lesser distances by deleting the 
existing language and adding the following: ``The measures included in 
the permit to minimize damage, destruction or disruption of services 
pursuant to Sec. 90.147(b) are implemented.

Section 90.97  Topsoil: Removal

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (c) by including metric 
measurements of 30.48 centimeters with the 12-inch measurement and to 
modify subsection (f) by substituting the word ``topsoil'' for 
``subsoil.''

Section 90.101  Hydrologic Balance: General Requirements

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (a) by substituting the words 
``minimize disturbances'' for the phrase ``prevent to the maximum 
extent possible, changes'' and by adding a requirement that surface 
mining activities shall be planned and conducted to prevent material 
damage to the hydrologic balance outside the permit area. PADEP further 
proposes to add that the Department may require additional 
preventative, remedial, or monitoring measures to assure that material 
damage to the hydrologic balance outside the permit area is prevented.

Section 90.106  Hydrologic Balance: Erosion and Sedimentation Control

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (a)(l) pertaining to prevention 
of contributions of sediment to streamflow or runoff by eliminating the 
word ``maximum'' prior to the words ``extent possible''.
    PADEP also proposes to modify subsection (a)(3) by changing the 
requirement from ``Prevent erosion to the maximum extent possible'' to 
``Minimize erosion to the extent possible.''

Section 90.134  Haul Roads and Access Roads: General

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (a) by eliminating the phrase 
``minimize erosion and to prevent'', and substituting the words 
``control or prevent:'' prior to ``contributions of sediment to streams 
or runoff . . .''.

Section 90.140  Haul Roads and Access Roads: Restoration

    PADEP proposes to modify this subsection by substituting the phrase 
``as soon as practicable'' for the word ``immediately''.
    PADEP also proposes to modify subsection (4) by eliminating the 
requirement that roadbeds be plowed. The subsection now reads 
``Roadbeds shall be ripped or scarificed''.

Section 90.147  Support Facilities and Utility Installations

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (a) by eliminating criteria 
from the opening paragraph and deleting subsections (1) and (2). The 
criteria to locate, maintain and use buildings is now included in new 
subsections (1), (2), (2)(i) and (2)(ii) as follows:
    (1) Prevents or controls erosion and siltation, water pollution, 
and damage to public or private property.
    (2) To the extent possible using the best technology currently 
available:
    (i) Minimizes damage to fish, wildlife and related environmental 
values.
    (ii) Minimizes additional contributions of suspended solids to 
streamflow or runoff outside the permit area. These contributions may 
not be in excess of limitations of State or Federal law.

Section 90.150  Protection of Fish, Wildlife and Related Environmental 
Values

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (a) by adding the phrase ``to 
the extent possible'' prior to the phrase ``using the best technology 
currently available''.
    PADEP also proposes to modify subsections (a)(1) through (a)(3) by 
eliminating the word ``prevent'' at the beginning of each and 
substituting the words ``minimize'', ``Locate and operate haul and 
access roads to avoid or minimize'' and ``avoid'' respectively, as they 
pertain to disturbances in each subsection. Subsection (a)(3) is 
further modified by requiring an operator to avoid disturbances to 
enhance or restore habitats of unusually high value for fish and 
wildlife.
    PADEP proposes to modify subsections (b) and (d) by changing the 
name of the Fish Commission to the Fish and Boat Commission.

Section 90.166  Postdisposal Land Use

    PADEP proposes to modify subsection (a) by changing the reference 
from ``Subchapter E (relating to coal exploration)'' to ``Subchapter F 
(relating to bonding and insurance requirements)''.
    PADEP also proposes to modify subsection (b) by eliminating 
subsections (3) and (4) pertaining to land that has received improper 
management or was changed within 5 years of the beginning of mining.
    PADEP also proposes to add new subsection (3) as follows: ``The 
proposed postmining land use is reasonably likely to be achieved which 
may be demonstrated by one or more of the following or other similar 
criteria'': Criteria currently identified in subsections (3), (4) and 
(5) are re-lettered as (i), (ii) and (iii) respectively under new 
subsection (3).
    PADEP also proposes to eliminate subsection (6) pertaining to 
certification of plans for postdisposal land use by a registered 
professional engineer. Existing subsections (7), (8), and (9) are re-
numbered as (4), (5) and (6), respectively.

[[Page 70650]]

III. Public Comment Procedures

    In accordance with the provisions of 30 CFR 732.17(h), OSM is 
seeking comments on whether the proposed amendment satisfies the 
applicable program approval criteria of 30 CFR 732.15. If the amendment 
is deemed adequate, it will become part of the Pennsylvania program.

Written Comments

    Written comments should be specific, pertain only to the issues 
proposed in this rulemaking, and include explanations in support of the 
commenter's recommendations. Comments received after the time indicated 
under DATES or at locations other than the Harrisburg Field Office will 
not necessarily be considered in the final rulemaking or included in 
the Administrative Record.

Public Hearing

    Persons wishing to comment at the public hearing should contact the 
person listed under FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT by close of 
business on January 3, 2000. If no one requests an opportunity to 
comment at a public hearing, the hearing will not be held.
    If a public hearing is held, it will continue on the specified date 
until all persons scheduled to comment have been heard. Persons in the 
audience who have not been scheduled to comment and who wish to do so 
will be heard following those scheduled. The hearing will end after all 
persons who desire to comment have been heard. Filing of a written 
statement at the time of the hearing is requested as it will greatly 
assist the transcriber.

Public Meeting

    If only one person requests an opportunity to comment at a hearing, 
a public meeting, rather than a public hearing, may be held. Persons 
wishing to meet with OSM representatives to discuss the proposed 
amendments may request a meeting at the Harrisburg Field Office by 
contacting the person listed under FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT. All 
such meetings will be open to the public and, if possible, notices of 
the meetings will be posted in advance at the locations listed above 
under ADDRESSES. A summary of meeting will be included in the 
Administrative Record.

IV. Procedural Determinations

Executive Order 12866

    This proposed rule is exempted from review by the Office of 
Management and Budget (OMB) under Executive Order 12866 (Regulatory 
Planning and Review).

Executive Order 12988

    The Department of the Interior has conducted the reviews required 
by section 3 of Executive Order 12988 (Civil Justice Reform) and has 
determined that, to the extent allowed by law, this rule meets the 
applicable standards of subsections (a) and (b) of that section. 
However, these standards are not applicable to the actual language of 
State regulatory programs and program amendments since each such 
program is drafted and promulgated by a specific State, not by OSM. 
Under sections 503 and 505 of SMCRA (30 U.S.C. 1253 and 1255) and 30 
CFR 730.11, 732.15, and 732.17(h)(10), decisions on proposed State 
regulatory programs and program amendments submitted by the States must 
be based solely on a determination of whether the submittal is 
consistent with SMCRA and its implementing Federal regulations and 
whether the other requirements of 30 CFR Parts 730, 731, and 732 have 
been met.

National Environmental Policy Act

    No environmental impact statement is required for this rule since 
agency decisions on proposed State regulatory program provisions do not 
constitute major Federal actions within the meaning of section 
102(2)(C) of the National Environmental Policy Act (42 U.S.C. 
4332(2)(C)).

Paperwork Reduction Act

    This rule does not contain information collection requirements that 
require approval by OMB under the Paperwork Reduction Act (44 U.S.C. 
3507 et seq.).

Regulatory Flexibility Act

    The Department of the Interior has determined that this rule will 
not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small 
entities under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.). 
The State submittal which is the subject of this rule is based upon 
corresponding Federal regulations for which an economic analysis was 
prepared and certification made that such regulations would not have a 
significant economic effect upon a substantial number of small 
entities. Accordingly, this rule will ensure that existing requirements 
previously promulgated by OSM will be implemented by the State. In 
making the determination as to whether this rule would have a 
significant economic impact, the Department relied upon the data and 
assumptions in the analyses for the corresponding Federal regulations.

Unfunded Mandates

    This rule will not impose a cost of $100 million or more in any 
given year on any governmental entity or the private sector.

List of Subjects in 30 CFR Part 938

    Intergovernmental relations, Surface mining, Underground mining.
Tim L. Dieringer,
Acting Regional Director, Appalachian Regional Coordinating Center.
[FR Doc. 99-32740 Filed 12-16-99; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4310-05-P