The Interior Department on Wednesday scrapped a Biden-era rule that governs when the federal government intervenes to address safety issues and permit violations at coal mines.
The Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement issued a final “ten-day notice” rule, which the agency said will grant states authority to address potential violations more quickly while reducing federal “interference.”
The final rule repeals a 2024 version finalized under former President Joe Biden, which authorized OSMRE to launch investigations and take enforcement actions when states fall short in overseeing coal mining operations and permits. Instead, OSMRE is reverting to an earlier version of the language that requires federal regulators to first confer with states before issuing environmental and public health violations or taking enforcement actions.
“This rule strengthens our partnership with states and recognizes their leadership in safeguarding mining practices,” Lanny Erdos, OSMRE’s director, said in a statement. The agency, he said, “will continue to provide oversight and guidance and is committed to working side-by-side with states to ensure compliance and protect communities.”
