30 U.S.C. § 1235 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 25: SURFACE MINING CONTROL AND RECLAMATION / Subchapter IV: ABANDONED MINE RECLAMATIONS / Section 1235: State reclamation program
State reclamation program
Status: in_force

(a) Promulgation of regulations

Not later than the end of the one hundred and eighty-day period immediately following August 3, 1977, the Secretary shall promulgate and publish in the Federal Register regulations covering implementation of an abandoned mine reclamation program incorporating the provisions of this subchapter and establishing procedures and requirements for preparation, submission, and approval of State programs consisting of the plan and annual submissions of projects.

(b) Submission of State Reclamation Plan and annual projects

Each State having within its borders coal mined lands eligible for reclamation under this subchapter, may submit to the Secretary a State Reclamation Plan and annual projects to carry out the purposes of this subchapter.

(c) Restriction

The Secretary shall not approve, fund, or continue to fund a State abandoned mine reclamation program unless that State has an approved State regulatory program pursuant to section 1253 of this title.

(d) Approval of State program; withdrawal

If the Secretary determines that a State has developed and submitted a program for reclamation of abandoned mines and has the ability and necessary State legislation to implement the provisions of this subchapter, sections 1232 and 1240 of this title excepted, the Secretary shall approve such State program and shall grant to the State exclusive responsibility and authority to implement the provisions of the approved program: Provided, That the Secretary shall withdraw such approval and authorization if he determines upon the basis of information provided under this section that the State program is not in compliance with the procedures, guidelines, and requirements established under subsection (a).

(e) Contents of State Reclamation Plan

Each State Reclamation Plan shall generally identify the areas to be reclaimed, the purposes for which the reclamation is proposed, the relationship of the lands to be reclaimed and the proposed reclamation to surrounding areas, the specific criteria for ranking and identifying projects to be funded, and the legal authority and programmatic capability to perform such work in conformance with the provisions of this subchapter.

(f) Annual application for support; contents

On an annual basis, each State having an approved State Reclamation Plan may submit to the Secretary an application for the support of the State program and implementation of specific reclamation projects. Such annual requests shall include such information as may be requested by the Secretary including:

(1) a general description of each proposed project;

(2) a priority evaluation of each proposed project;

(3) a statement of the estimated benefits in such terms as: number of acres restored, miles of stream improved, acres of surface lands protected from subsidence, population protected from subsidence, air pollution, hazards of mine and coal refuse disposal area fires;

(4) an estimate of the cost for each proposed project;

(5) in the case of proposed research and demonstration projects, a description of the specific techniques to be evaluated or objective to be attained;

(6) an identification of lands or interest therein to be acquired and the estimated cost; and

(7) in each year after the first in which a plan is filed under this subchapter, an inventory of each project funded under the previous year's grant: which inventory shall include details of financial expenditures on such project together with a brief description of each such project, including project locations, landowner's name, acreage, type of reclamation performed.

(g) Costs

The costs for each proposed project under this section shall include: actual construction costs, actual operation and maintenance costs of permanent facilities, planning and engineering costs, construction inspection costs, and other necessary administrative expenses.

(h) Grant of funds

Upon approval of State Reclamation Plan by the Secretary and of the surface mine regulatory program pursuant to section 1253 of this title, the Secretary shall grant, on an annual basis, funds to be expended in such State pursuant to section 1232(g) of this title and which are necessary to implement the State reclamation program as approved by the Secretary.

(i) Program monitorship

The Secretary, through his designated agents, will monitor the progress and quality of the program. The States shall not be required at the start of any project to submit complete copies of plans and specifications.

(j) Annual report to Secretary

The Secretary shall require annual and other reports as may be necessary to be submitted by each State administering the approved State reclamation program with funds provided under this subchapter. Such reports shall include that information which the Secretary deems necessary to fulfill his responsibilities under this subchapter.

(k) Eligible lands of Indian tribes

Indian tribes having within their jurisdiction eligible lands pursuant to section 1234 of this title or from which coal is produced, shall be considered as a "State" for the purposes of this subchapter except for purposes of subsection (c) of this section with respect to the Navajo, Hopi and Crow Indian Tribes.

(l) State liability

No State shall be liable under any provision of Federal law for any costs or damages as a result of action taken or omitted in the course of carrying out a State abandoned mine reclamation plan approved under this section. This subsection shall not preclude liability for cost or damages as a result of gross negligence or intentional misconduct by the State. For purposes of the preceding sentence, reckless, willful, or wanton misconduct shall constitute gross negligence.

(Pub. L. 95–87, title IV, §405, Aug. 3, 1977, 91 Stat. 459; Pub. L. 100–71, title I, July 11, 1987, 101 Stat. 416; Pub. L. 101–508, title VI, §§6007, 6012(d)(1), (2), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1388–295, 1388–298.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

1990—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 101–508, §6012(d)(1), substituted "preparation" for "perparation".

Subsec. (h). Pub. L. 101–508, §6012(d)(2), substituted "Upon approval" for "Upon approved".

Subsec. (l). Pub. L. 101–508, §6007, added subsec. (l).

1987—Subsec. (k). Pub. L. 100–71, which directed the amendment of subsec. (k) by inserting "except for purposes of subsection (c) of this section with respect to the Navajo, Hopi and Crow Indian Tribes" at the end thereof, was executed by making the insertion before the period to reflect the probable intent of Congress.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 1990 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 101–508 effective Oct. 1, 1991, see section 6014 of Pub. L. 101–508 set out as a note under section 1231 of this title.

Grant of Funds to States Under Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act

Pub. L. 97–377, title I, §150, Dec. 21, 1982, 96 Stat. 1918, provided that: "Within 60 days of receipt of a complete abandoned mine reclamation fund grant application from any eligible State under the provisions of the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act (91 Stat. 460) [Pub. L. 95–87, see Short Title note set out under section 1201 of this title] the Secretary of Interior shall grant to such State any and all funds available for such purposes in the applicable appropriations Act."
30 U.S.C. § 205 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 3A: LEASES AND PROSPECTING PERMITS / Subchapter II: COAL / Section 205: Consolidation of leases
Consolidation of leases
Status: in_force

If, in the judgment of the Secretary of the Interior, the public interest will be subserved thereby, lessees holding under lease areas not exceeding the maximum permitted under this chapter may consolidate their leases through the surrender of the original leases and the inclusion of such areas in a new lease of not to exceed two thousand five hundred and sixty acres of contiguous lands.

(Feb. 25, 1920, ch. 85, §5, 41 Stat. 439.)
30 U.S.C. § 24 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 2: MINERAL LANDS AND REGULATIONS IN GENERAL / Section 24: Proof of citizenship
Proof of citizenship
Status: in_force

Proof of citizenship, under sections 21, 22 to 24, 26 to 28, 29, 30, 33 to 48, 50 to 52, 71 to 76 of this title and section 661 of title 43, may consist, in the case of an individual, of his own affidavit thereof; in the case of an association of persons unincorporated, of the affidavit of their authorized agent, made on his own knowledge, or upon information and belief; and in the case of a corporation organized under the laws of the United States, or of any State or Territory thereof, by the filing of a certified copy of their charter or certificate of incorporation.

(R.S. §2321.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

Sections 21, 22 to 24, 26 to 28, 29, 30, 33 to 48, 50 to 52, 71 to 76 of this title and section 661 of title 43, referred to in text, were in the original "this chapter", meaning chapter 6 of title 32 of the Revised Statutes, consisting of R.S. §§2318 to 2352.

Codification

R.S. §2321 derived from act May 10, 1872, ch. 152, §7, 17 Stat. 94.
30 U.S.C. § 1229 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 25: SURFACE MINING CONTROL AND RECLAMATION / Subchapter III: STATE MINING AND MINERAL RESOURCES RESEARCH INSTITUTES / Section 1229: Committee on Mining and Mineral Resources Research
Committee on Mining and Mineral Resources Research
Status: in_force

(a) Appointment; composition

The Secretary shall appoint a Committee on Mining and Mineral Resources Research composed of—

(1) the Assistant Secretary of the Interior responsible for minerals and mining research, or his delegate;

(2) the Director, United States Bureau of Mines, or his delegate;

(3) the Director, United States Geological Survey, or his delegate;

(4) the Director of the National Science Foundation, or his delegate;

(5) the President, National Academy of Sciences, or his delegate;

(6) the President, National Academy of Engineering, or his delegate; and

(7) not more than 7 other persons who are knowledgeable in the fields of mining and mineral resources research, including two university administrators involved in the conduct of programs authorized by this subchapter, 3 representatives from the mining industry, a working miner, and a representative from the conservation community. In making these 7 appointments, the Secretary shall consult with interested groups.

(b) Consultation and recommendations

The Committee shall consult with, and make recommendations to, the Secretary on all matters relating to mining and mineral resources research and the determinations that are required to be made under this subchapter. The Secretary shall consult with, and consider recommendations of, such Committee in such matters.

(c) Compensation, travel, subsistence and related expenses

Committee members, other than officers or employees of Federal, State, or local governments, shall be, for each day (including traveltime) during which they are performing Committee business, paid at a rate fixed by the Secretary but not 1 excess of the daily equivalent of the maximum rate of pay for grade GS–18 of the General Schedule under section 5332 of title 5, and shall be fully reimbursed for travel, subsistence, and related expenses.

(d) Chairmanship of Committee

The Committee shall be jointly chaired by the Assistant Secretary of the Interior responsible for minerals and mining and a person to be elected by the Committee from among the members referred to in paragraphs (5), (6), and (7) of subsection (a) of this section.

(e) National plan for research

The Committee shall develop a national plan for research in mining and mineral resources, considering ongoing efforts in the universities, the Federal Government, and the private sector, and shall formulate and recommend a program to implement the plan utilizing resources provided for under this subchapter. The Committee shall submit such plan to the Secretary, the President, and the Congress on or before March 1, 1986, and shall submit an annual update of such plan by January 15 of each calendar year.

(f) Application of chapter 10 of title 5

Section 1009 of title 5 shall not apply to the Committee.

(Pub. L. 98–409, §9, Aug. 29, 1984, 98 Stat. 1540; Pub. L. 100–483, §§8, 9, Oct. 12, 1988, 102 Stat. 2340; Pub. L. 102–285, §10(b), May 18, 1992, 106 Stat. 172; Pub. L. 117–286, §4(a)(193), Dec. 27, 2022, 136 Stat. 4327.)

Editorial Notes

Codification

Section was enacted as part of the Mining and Mineral Resources Institutes Act, and not as part of the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 which comprises this chapter.

Prior Provisions

A prior section 1229, Pub. L. 95–87, title III, §309, Aug. 3, 1977, 91 Stat. 455, contained provisions similar to this section covering fiscal years 1978 through 1984.

Amendments

2022—Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 117–286 substituted "Section 1009 of title 5" for "Section 10 of the Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 U.S.C. App.)".

1988—Subsec. (a)(7). Pub. L. 100–483, §8, substituted "7 other persons" for "six other persons", "this subchapter, 3" for "section 301 of the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977, two", and "7 appointments" for "six appointments".

Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 100–483, §9, substituted "submit an annual update of such plan by January 15 of each calendar year" for "update the plan annually thereafter".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Change of Name

"United States Bureau of Mines" substituted for "Bureau of Mines" in subsec. (a)(2) pursuant to section 10(b) of Pub. L. 102–285, set out as a note under section 1 of this title. For provisions relating to closure and transfer of functions of the United States Bureau of Mines, see Transfer of Functions note set out under section 1 of this title.

Termination of Reporting Requirements

For termination, effective May 15, 2000, of provisions in subsec. (e) of this section relating to the requirement to submit annual updates of the national plan to Congress, see section 3003 of Pub. L. 104–66, as amended, set out as a note under section 1113 of Title 31, Money and Finance, and page 157 of House Document No. 103–7.

References in Other Laws to GS–16, 17, or 18 Pay Rates

References in laws to the rates of pay for GS–16, 17, or 18, or to maximum rates of pay under the General Schedule, to be considered references to rates payable under specified sections of Title 5, Government Organization and Employees, see section 529 [title I, §101(c)(1)] of Pub. L. 101–509, set out in a note under section 5376 of Title 5.

Reports

Pub. L. 100–483, §11, Oct. 12, 1988, 102 Stat. 2341, directed Committee on Mining and Mineral Resources Research to submit a report to Congress by Jan. 15, 1992, on programs established under this subchapter, including reviews of activities of the institutes and generic mineral technology centers established under this subchapter, each institute's and center's eligibility pursuant to section 1230 of this title, and recommendations on establishing new generic mineral technology centers, as well as phasing out or consolidating existing centers, and further directed Committee to submit to Congress, by Jan. 15, 1990, a proposal to establish a Generic Mineral Technology Center on Strategic and Critical Minerals.

1 So in original. Probably should be followed by "in".
30 U.S.C. § 1241 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 25: SURFACE MINING CONTROL AND RECLAMATION / Subchapter IV: ABANDONED MINE RECLAMATIONS / Section 1241: Omitted
Omitted
Status: omitted

Editorial Notes

Codification

Section, Pub. L. 95–87, title IV, §412, formerly §411, Aug. 3, 1977, 91 Stat. 466, renumbered §412, Pub. L. 101–508, title VI, §6010(1), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1388–296, which required the Secretary of the Interior or the State pursuant to an approved State program to report to Congress annually on operations under the fund together with recommendations for future use of the fund, terminated, effective May 15, 2000, pursuant to section 3003 of Pub. L. 104–66, as amended, set out as a note under section 1113 of Title 31, Money and Finance. See, also, page 109 of House Document No. 103–7.
30 U.S.C. § 558 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 13: CONTROL OF COAL-MINE FIRES / Section 558: Authorization of appropriations
Authorization of appropriations
Status: in_force

There are hereby authorized to be appropriated such sums,1 as may be necessary to carry out the provisions and purposes of this chapter.

(Aug. 31, 1954, ch. 1156, §8, 68 Stat. 1011; Pub. L. 102–486, title XXV, §2504(d)(3), Oct. 24, 1992, 106 Stat. 3106.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

1992—Pub. L. 102–486 struck out "not to exceed $500,000 annually," after "such sums,".

1 So in original. The comma probably should not appear.
30 U.S.C. § 1225 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 25: SURFACE MINING CONTROL AND RECLAMATION / Subchapter III: STATE MINING AND MINERAL RESOURCES RESEARCH INSTITUTES / Section 1225: Effect on colleges and universities
Effect on colleges and universities
Status: in_force

Nothing in this subchapter shall be construed to impair or modify the legal relationship existing between any of the colleges or universities under whose direction an institute is established and the government of the State in which it is located, and nothing in this subchapter shall in any way be construed to authorize Federal control or direction of education at any college or university.

(Pub. L. 98–409, §5, Aug. 29, 1984, 98 Stat. 1539.)

Editorial Notes

Codification

Section was enacted as part of the Mining and Mineral Resources Research Institute Act of 1984, and not as part of the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 which comprises this chapter.

Prior Provisions

A prior section 1225, Pub. L. 95–87, title III, §305, Aug. 3, 1977, 91 Stat. 454, contained provisions similar to this section covering fiscal years 1978 through 1984.
30 U.S.C. § 201a (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 3A: LEASES AND PROSPECTING PERMITS / Subchapter II: COAL / Section 201a: Repealed. June 3, 1948, ch. 379, §8, 62 Stat. 291
Repealed. June 3, 1948, ch. 379, §8, 62 Stat. 291
Status: repealed

Section, act Mar. 9, 1928, ch. 159, §1, 45 Stat. 251, related to extension of coal prospecting permits.
30 U.S.C. § 681 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 19: LEAD AND ZINC STABILIZATION PROGRAM / Section 681: Omitted
Omitted
Status: omitted

Editorial Notes

Codification

Section 681, Pub. L. 87–347, §1, Oct. 3, 1961, 75 Stat. 766, stated purpose of this chapter as establishment and maintenance of a program of stabilization payments (which terminated December 31, 1969) to small domestic producers of lead and zinc ores and concentrates in order to stabilize the mining of lead and zinc by such producers. See note for section 687 below.

Section 682, Pub. L. 87–347, §2, Oct. 3, 1961, 75 Stat. 766; Pub. L. 89–238, §1(1), Oct. 5, 1965, 79 Stat. 925, provided for stabilization payments (which terminated December 31, 1969) and conditions and limitations of payments. See note for section 687 below.

Section 683, Pub. L. 87–347, §3, Oct. 3, 1961, 75 Stat. 767; Pub. L. 89–238, §1(2), Oct. 5, 1965, 79 Stat. 925, provided for additional limitations on payments which terminated on December 31, 1969. See note for section 687 below.

Section 684, Pub. L. 87–347, §4, Oct. 3, 1961, 75 Stat. 767, authorized Secretary to promulgate such regulations and require such reports as deemed necessary to carry out program of stabilization payments (which terminated December 31, 1969) under this chapter. See note for section 687 below.

Section 685, Pub. L. 87–347, §5, Oct. 3, 1961, 75 Stat. 768, authorized Secretary to delegate functions relating to stabilization payments (which terminated December 31, 1969) under this chapter to Administrator of General Services. See note for section 687 below.

Section 686, Pub. L. 87–347, §6, Oct. 3, 1961, 75 Stat. 768; Pub. L. 88–75, July 25, 1963, 77 Stat. 92; Pub. L. 89–238, §1(3), Oct. 5, 1965, 79 Stat. 925, defined terms as used in this chapter relating to stabilization payments which terminated December 31, 1969. See note for section 687 below.

Section 687, Pub. L. 87–347, §7, Oct. 3, 1961, 75 Stat. 768; Pub. L. 89–238, §1(4), Oct. 5, 1965, 79 Stat. 925, provided that no payment be made under this chapter after Dec. 31, 1969, but permitted authorized payment only if application therefor was filed not later than Mar. 31, 1970.

Section 688, Pub. L. 87–347, §8, Oct. 3, 1961, 75 Stat. 768, required annual reports to Congress on operations relating to stabilization payments (which terminated December 31, 1969) under this chapter not later than first day of March each year. See note for section 687 above.

Section 689, Pub. L. 87–347, §9, Oct. 3, 1961, 75 Stat. 768; Pub. L. 89–238, §1(5), Oct. 5, 1965, 79 Stat. 925, related to penalties for procuring a stabilization payment (which terminated December 31, 1969) not entitled to under this chapter and civil and criminal liability for keeping a payment not entitled to under this chapter. See note for section 687 above.
30 U.S.C. § 360 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 7: LEASE OF MINERAL DEPOSITS WITHIN ACQUIRED LANDS / Section 360: Authority to manage certain mineral leases
Authority to manage certain mineral leases
Status: in_force

Each department, agency and instrumentality of the United States which administers lands acquired by the United States with one or more existing mineral lease shall transfer to the Secretary of the Interior the authority to administer such lease and to collect all receipts due and payable to the United States under the lease. In the case of lands acquired on or before October 24, 1992, the authority to administer the leases and collect receipts shall be transferred to the Secretary of the Interior as expeditiously as practicable after October 24, 1992. In the case of lands acquired after October 24, 1992, such authority shall be vested with the Secretary at the time of acquisition. The provisions of section 355 of this title shall apply to all receipts derived from such leases where such receipts are due and payable to the United States under the lease in the same manner as such provisions apply to receipts derived from leases issued under the authority of this chapter. For purposes of this section, the term "existing mineral lease" means any lease in existence at the time land is acquired by the United States. Nothing in this section shall be construed to affect the existing surface management authority of any Federal agency.

(Aug. 7, 1947, ch. 513, §11, as added Pub. L. 102–486, title XXV, §2506(b), Oct. 24, 1992, 106 Stat. 3106.)
30 U.S.C. § 225 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 3A: LEASES AND PROSPECTING PERMITS / Subchapter IV: OIL AND GAS / Section 225: Condition of lease, forfeiture for violation
Condition of lease, forfeiture for violation
Status: in_force

All leases of lands containing oil or gas, made or issued under the provisions of this chapter, shall be subject to the condition that the lessee will, in conducting his explorations and mining operations, use all reasonable precautions to prevent waste of oil or gas developed in the land, or the entrance of water through wells drilled by him to the oil sands or oil-bearing strata, to the destruction or injury of the oil deposits. Violations of the provisions of this section shall constitute grounds for the forfeiture of the lease, to be enforced as provided in this chapter.

(Feb. 25, 1920, ch. 85, §16, 41 Stat. 443; Aug. 8, 1946, ch. 916, §2, 60 Stat. 951.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

1946—Act Aug. 8, 1946, omitted condition that no wells should be drilled within two hundred feet of boundaries of leased lands.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Savings Provision

See note set out under section 181 of this title.

Outer Continental Shelf; Terms and Conditions of Leases

Terms and conditions of mineral leases on submerged lands of outer Continental Shelf, see section 1337 of Title 43, Public Lands.
30 U.S.C. § 1417 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 26: DEEP SEABED HARD MINERAL RESOURCES / Subchapter I: REGULATION OF EXPLORATION AND COMMERCIAL RECOVERY BY UNITED STATES CITIZENS / Section 1417: Duration of licenses and permits
Duration of licenses and permits
Status: in_force

(a) Duration of a license

Each license for exploration shall be issued for a period of 10 years. If the licensee has substantially complied with the license and the exploration plan associated therewith and has requested extensions of the license, the Administrator shall extend the license on terms, conditions, and restrictions consistent with this chapter and the regulations issued under this chapter for periods of not more than 5 years each.

(b) Duration of a permit

Each permit for commercial recovery shall be issued for a term of 20 years and for so long thereafter as hard mineral resources are recovered annually in commercial quantities from the area to which the recovery plan associated with the permit applies. The permit of any permittee who is not recovering hard mineral resources in commercial quantities at the end of 10 years shall be terminated; except that the Administrator shall for good cause shown, including force majeure, adverse economic conditions, unavoidable delays in construction, major unanticipated vessel repairs that prevent the permittee from conducting commercial recovery activities during an annual period, or other circumstances beyond the control of the permittee, extend the 10-year period, but not beyond the initial 20-year term of the permit.

(Pub. L. 96–283, title I, §107, June 28, 1980, 94 Stat. 567.)
30 U.S.C. § 403 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 8: DEVELOPMENT OF LIGNITE COAL RESOURCES / Section 403: Repealed. Pub. L. 93-608, §1(12), Jan. 2, 1975, 88 Stat. 1969
Repealed. Pub. L. 93-608, §1(12), Jan. 2, 1975, 88 Stat. 1969
Status: repealed

Section, act Mar. 25, 1948, ch. 146, §3, 62 Stat. 85, required Secretary of the Interior, acting through Bureau of Mines, to report to Congress on activities, expenditures, etc., of laboratory.
30 U.S.C. § 706 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 20: CONVEYANCES TO OCCUPANTS OF UNPATENTED MINING CLAIMS / Section 706: Liabilities of occupants; trespass; limitations
Liabilities of occupants; trespass; limitations
Status: in_force

(a) The execution of a conveyance as authorized by section 701 of this title shall not relieve any occupant of the land conveyed of any liability, existing on the date of said conveyance, to the United States for unauthorized use of the land in and to which an interest is conveyed.

(b) Except where a mining claim embracing land applied for under this chapter by a qualified applicant was located at a time when the land included therein was withdrawn or otherwise not subject to such location, no trespass charges shall be sought or collected by the United States from any qualified applicant who has filed an application for land in the mining claim pursuant to this chapter, based upon occupancy of such claim, whether residential or otherwise, for any period preceding the final administrative determination of the invalidity of the mining claim by the Secretary of the Interior or the voluntary relinquishment of the mining claim, whichever occurs earlier. Nothing contained in this chapter shall be construed as creating any liability for trespass to the United States which would not exist in the absence of this chapter. Relief under this section shall be limited to persons who file applications for conveyances pursuant to section 701 of this title within the period ending June 30, 1971.

(Pub. L. 87–851, §6, Oct. 23, 1962, 76 Stat. 1128; Pub. L. 90–111, §2, Oct. 23, 1967, 81 Stat. 311.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

1967—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 90–111 extended from Oct. 23, 1967 to June 30, 1971, the period in which relief shall be accorded under this section to individuals who apply for conveyances pursuant to section 701 of this title.
30 U.S.C. § 1722 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 29: OIL AND GAS ROYALTY MANAGEMENT / Subchapter I: FEDERAL ROYALTY MANAGEMENT AND ENFORCEMENT / Section 1722: Injunction and specific enforcement authority
Injunction and specific enforcement authority
Status: in_force

(a) Civil action by Attorney General

In addition to any other remedy under this chapter or any mineral leasing law, the Attorney General of the United States or his designee may bring a civil action in a district court of the United States, which shall have jurisdiction over such actions—

(1) to restrain any violation of this chapter; or

(2) to compel the taking of any action required by or under this chapter or any mineral leasing law of the United States.

(b) Venue

A civil action described in subsection (a) may be brought only in the United States district court for the judicial district wherein the act, omission, or transaction constituting a violation under this chapter or any other mineral leasing law occurred, or wherein the defendant is found or transacts business.

(Pub. L. 97–451, title I, §112, Jan. 12, 1983, 96 Stat. 2456.)
30 U.S.C. § 1021 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 23: GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES / Section 1021: Federal exemption from State water laws
Federal exemption from State water laws
Status: in_force

Nothing in this chapter shall constitute an express or implied claim or denial on the part of the Federal Government as to its exemption from State water laws.

(Pub. L. 91–581, §22, Dec. 24, 1970, 84 Stat. 1573; Pub. L. 109–58, title II, §236(20), Aug. 8, 2005, 119 Stat. 673.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2005—Pub. L. 109–58 inserted section catchline.
30 U.S.C. § 1256 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 25: SURFACE MINING CONTROL AND RECLAMATION / Subchapter V: CONTROL OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS OF SURFACE COAL MINING / Section 1256: Permits
Permits
Status: in_force

(a) Persons engaged in surface coal mining within State; time limit; exception

No later than eight months from the date on which a State program is approved by the Secretary, pursuant to section 1253 of this title, or no later than eight months from the date on which the Secretary has promulgated a Federal program for a State not having a State program pursuant to section 1254 of this title, no person shall engage in or carry out on lands within a State any surface coal mining operations unless such person has first obtained a permit issued by such State pursuant to an approved State program or by the Secretary pursuant to a Federal program; except a person conducting surface coal mining operations under a permit from the State regulatory authority, issued in accordance with the provisions of section 1252 of this title, may conduct such operations beyond such period if an application for a permit has been filed in accordance with the provisions of this chapter, but the initial administrative decision has not been rendered.

(b) Term

All permits issued pursuant to the requirements of this chapter shall be issued for a term not to exceed five years: Provided, That if the applicant demonstrates that a specified longer term is reasonably needed to allow the applicant to obtain necessary financing for equipment and the opening of the operation and if the application is full and complete for such specified longer term, the regulatory authority may grant a permit for such longer term. A successor in interest to a permittee who applies for a new permit within thirty days of succeeding to such interest and who is able to obtain the bond coverage of the original permittee may continue surface coal mining and reclamation operations according to the approved mining and reclamation plan of the original permittee until such successor's application is granted or denied.

(c) Termination

A permit shall terminate if the permittee has not commenced the surface coal mining operations covered by such permit within three years of the issuance of the permit: Provided, That the regulatory authority may grant reasonable extensions of time upon a showing that such extensions are necessary by reason of litigation precluding such commencement or threatening substantial economic loss to the permittee, or by reason of conditions beyond the control and without the fault or negligence of the permittee: Provided further, That in the case of a coal lease issued under the Federal Mineral Leasing Act, as amended [30 U.S.C. 181 et seq.], extensions of time may not extend beyond the period allowed for diligent development in accordance with section 7 of that Act [30 U.S.C. 207]: Provided further, That with respect to coal to be mined for use in a synthetic fuel facility or specific major electric generating facility, the permittee shall be deemed to have commenced surface mining operations at such time as the construction of the synthetic fuel or generating facility is initiated.

(d) Renewal

(1) Any valid permit issued pursuant to this chapter shall carry with it the right of successive renewal upon expiration with respect to areas within the boundaries of the existing permit. The holders of the permit may apply for renewal and such renewal shall be issued (provided that on application for renewal the burden shall be on the opponents of renewal), subsequent to fulfillment of the public notice requirements of sections 1263 and 1264 of this title unless it is established that and written findings by the regulatory authority are made that—

(A) the terms and conditions of the existing permit are not being satisfactorily met;

(B) the present surface coal mining and reclamation operation is not in compliance with the environmental protection standards of this chapter and the approved State plan or Federal program pursuant to this chapter; or

(C) the renewal requested substantially jeopardizes the operator's continuing responsibility on existing permit areas;

(D) the operator has not provided evidence that the performance bond in effect for said operation will continue in full force and effect for any renewal requested in such application as well as any additional bond the regulatory authority might require pursuant to section 1259 of this title; or

(E) any additional revised or updated information required by the regulatory authority has not been provided. Prior to the approval of any renewal of permit the regulatory authority shall provide notice to the appropriate public authorities.

(2) If an application for renewal of a valid permit includes a proposal to extend the mining operation beyond the boundaries authorized in the existing permit, the portion of the application for renewal of a valid permit which addresses any new land areas shall be subject to the full standards applicable to new applications under this chapter: Provided, however, That if the surface coal mining operations authorized by a permit issued pursuant to this chapter were not subject to the standards contained in section 1260(b)(5)(A) and (B) of this title by reason of complying with the proviso of section 1260(b)(5) of this title, then the portion of the application for renewal of the permit which addresses any new land areas previously identified in the reclamation plan submitted pursuant to section 1258 of this title shall not be subject to the standards contained in section 1260(b)(5)(A) and (B) of this title.

(3) Any permit renewal shall be for a term not to exceed the period of the original permit established by this chapter. Application for permit renewal shall be made at least one hundred and twenty days prior to the expiration of the valid permit.

(Pub. L. 95–87, title V, §506, Aug. 3, 1977, 91 Stat. 473.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The Federal Mineral Leasing Act, as amended, referred to in subsec. (c), probably means act Feb. 25, 1920, ch. 85, 41 Stat. 437, known as the Mineral Leasing Act, which is classified generally to chapter 3A (§181 et seq.) of this title. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 181 of this title and Tables.
30 U.S.C. § 193 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 3A: LEASES AND PROSPECTING PERMITS / Subchapter I: GENERAL PROVISIONS / Section 193: Disposition of deposits of coal, and so forth
Disposition of deposits of coal, and so forth
Status: in_force

The deposits of coal, phosphate, sodium, potassium, oil, oil shale, and gas, herein referred to, in lands valuable for such minerals, including lands and deposits in Lander, Wyoming, coal entries numbered 18 to 49, inclusive, shall be subject to disposition only in the form and manner provided in this chapter, except as provided in sections 1716 and 1719 of title 43, and except as to valid claims existent on February 25, 1920, and thereafter maintained in compliance with the laws under which initiated, which claims may be perfected under such laws, including discovery.

(Feb. 25, 1920, ch. 85, §37, 41 Stat. 451; Feb. 7, 1927, ch. 66, §5, 44 Stat. 1058; Aug. 8, 1946, ch. 916, §11, 60 Stat. 957; Pub. L. 95–554, §4, Oct. 30, 1978, 92 Stat. 2074.)

Editorial Notes

Codification

Section was from act Feb. 25, 1920, in which words now reading "in Lander, Wyoming, coal entries numbered 18 to 49, inclusive," originally read "described in the joint resolution entitled 'Joint resolution authorizing the Secretary of the Interior to permit the continuation of coal mining operations on certain lands in Wyoming,' approved August 12, 1912, (Thirty-seven Statutes at Large p. 1346)." The change was effected by interpolation, in lieu of the reference to the 1912 resolution, the actual description of lands contained in said resolution.

Amendments

1978—Pub. L. 95–554 provided for disposition of minerals as provided in sections 1716 and 1719 of title 43.

1946—Act Aug. 8, 1946, excluded from section 5 of act Feb. 7, 1927, the incorporation, by reference, of section 181 of this title, and reenacted inclusion of deposits of potassium.

1927—Act Feb. 7, 1927, included deposits of potassium.
30 U.S.C. § 1292 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 25: SURFACE MINING CONTROL AND RECLAMATION / Subchapter VII: ADMINISTRATIVE AND MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS / Section 1292: Other Federal laws
Other Federal laws
Status: in_force

(a) Construction of chapter as superseding, amending, modifying, or repealing certain laws

Nothing in this chapter shall be construed as superseding, amending, modifying, or repealing the Mining and Minerals Policy Act of 1970 (30 U.S.C. 21a), the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321–47), or any of the following Acts or with any rule or regulation promulgated thereunder, including, but not limited to—

(1) The Federal Metal and Nonmetallic Mine Safety Act (30 U.S.C. 721–740).

(2) The Federal Coal Mine Health and Safety Act of 1969 (83 Stat. 742) [30 U.S.C. 801 et seq.].

(3) The Federal Water Pollution Control Act (79 Stat. 903), as amended [33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq.], the State laws enacted pursuant thereto, or other Federal laws relating to preservation of water quality.

(4) The Clean Air Act, as amended [42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.].

(5) The Solid Waste Disposal Act [42 U.S.C. 6901 et seq.].

(6) The Refuse Act of 1899 (33 U.S.C. 407).

(7) The Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act of 1934 (16 U.S.C. 661–666c).

(8) The Mineral Leasing Act of 1920, as amended (30 U.S.C. 181 et seq.).

(b) Effect on authority of Secretary or heads of other Federal agencies

Nothing in this chapter shall affect in any way the authority of the Secretary or the heads of other Federal agencies under other provisions of law to include in any lease, license, permit, contract, or other instrument such conditions as may be appropriate to regulate surface coal mining and reclamation operations on land under their jurisdiction.

(c) Cooperation

To the greatest extent practicable each Federal agency shall cooperate with the Secretary and the States in carrying out the provisions of this chapter.

(d) Major Federal action

Approval of the State programs, pursuant to section 1253(b) of this title, promulgation of Federal programs, pursuant to section 1254 of this title, and implementation of the Federal lands programs, pursuant to section 1273 of this title, shall not constitute a major action within the meaning of section 102(2)(C) of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4332). Adoption of regulations under section 1251(b) of this title shall constitute a major action within the meaning of section 102(2)(C) of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4332).

(Pub. L. 95–87, title VII, §702, Aug. 3, 1977, 91 Stat. 519.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The Mining and Minerals Policy Act of 1970 (30 U.S.C. 21a), referred to in subsec. (a), is Pub. L. 91–631, Dec. 31, 1970, 84 Stat. 1876, which enacted section 21a of this title and provisions set out as a note under section 21a of this title. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 21a of this title and Tables.

The National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321–47), referred to in subsec. (a), is Pub. L. 91–190, Jan. 1, 1970, 83 Stat. 852, which is classified generally to chapter 55 (§4321 et seq.) of Title 42, The Public Health and Welfare. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 4321 of Title 42 and Tables.

The Federal Metal and Nonmetallic Mine Safety Act (30 U.S.C. 721–740), referred to in subsec. (a)(1), is Pub. L. 89–577, Sept. 16, 1966, 80 Stat. 772, which was classified generally to chapter 21 (§721 et seq.) of this title and was repealed by Pub. L. 95–164, title III, §306(a), Nov. 9, 1977, 91 Stat. 1322.

The Federal Coal Mine Health and Safety Act of 1969 (83 Stat. 742), referred to in subsec. (a)(2), is Pub. L. 91–173, Dec. 30, 1969, 83 Stat. 742, which was redesignated the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act of 1977 by Pub. L. 95–164, title I, §101, Nov. 9, 1977, 91 Stat. 1290, and is classified principally to chapter 22 (§801 et seq.) of this title. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 801 of this title and Tables.

The Federal Water Pollution Control Act (79 Stat. 903), referred to in subsec. (a)(3), is act June 30, 1948, ch. 758, 62 Stat. 1155, as amended generally by Pub. L. 92–500, §2, Oct. 18, 1972, 86 Stat. 816, which is classified generally to chapter 26 (§1251 et seq.) of Title 33, Navigation and Navigable Waters. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 1251 of Title 33 and Tables.

The Clean Air Act, referred to in subsec. (a)(4), is act July 14, 1955, ch. 360, 69 Stat. 322, which is classified generally to chapter 85 (§7401 et seq.) of Title 42, The Public Health and Welfare. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 7401 of Title 42 and Tables.

The Solid Waste Disposal Act (42 U.S.C. 3251–3259), referred to in subsec. (a)(5), is title II of Pub. L. 89–272, Oct. 20, 1965, 79 Stat. 997, as amended generally by Pub. L. 94–580, §2, Oct. 21, 1976, 90 Stat. 2795, which is classified generally to chapter 82 (§6901 et seq.) of Title 42. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 6901 of Title 42 and Tables.

The Refuse Act of 1899 (33 U.S.C. 407), referred to in subsec. (a)(6), probably means act Mar. 3, 1899, ch. 425, §13, 30 Stat. 1152, which enacted section 407 of Title 33, Navigation and Navigable Waters.

The Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act of 1934 (16 U.S.C. 661–666c), referred to in subsec. (a)(7), is act Mar. 10, 1934, ch. 55, 48 Stat. 401, known as the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act, which is classified generally to sections 661 to 666c–1 of Title 16, Conservation. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see section 661(a) of Title 16, Short Title note set out under section 661 of Title 16, and Tables.

The Mineral Leasing Act of 1920, as amended (30 U.S.C. 181 et seq.), referred to in subsec. (a)(8), is act Feb. 25, 1920, ch. 85, 41 Stat. 437, known as the Mineral Leasing Act, which is classified generally to chapter 3A (§181 et seq.) of this title. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 181 of this title and Tables.
30 U.S.C. § 1716 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 29: OIL AND GAS ROYALTY MANAGEMENT / Subchapter I: FEDERAL ROYALTY MANAGEMENT AND ENFORCEMENT / Section 1716: Liabilities and bonding
Liabilities and bonding
Status: in_force

A person (including any agent or employee of the United States and any independent contractor) authorized to collect, receive, account for, or otherwise handle any moneys payable to, or received by, the Department of the Interior which are derived from the sale, lease, or other disposal of any oil or gas shall be—

(1) liable to the United States for any losses caused by any intentional or reckless action or inaction of such individual with respect to such moneys; and

(2) in the case of an independent contractor, required as the Secretary deems necessary to maintain a bond commensurate with the amount of money for which such individual could be liable to the United States.

(Pub. L. 97–451, title I, §106, Jan. 12, 1983, 96 Stat. 2452.)
30 U.S.C. § 555 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 13: CONTROL OF COAL-MINE FIRES / Section 555: Conditions precedent for aid to non-Federal lands
Conditions precedent for aid to non-Federal lands
Status: in_force

(a) Enactment of local laws; agreements

As a condition to the extending of any benefits under section 553(b) of this title to any lands not owned or controlled by the United States or any of its agencies, except where such action is necessary for the protection of lands or other property owned or controlled by the United States or any of its agencies, the Secretary of the Interior may require—

(1) the enactment of State or local laws providing for the control and extinguishment of outcrop and underground fires in coal formations on State or privately owned land and the cooperation of State or local authorities in the work; and

(2) agreements or covenants as to the performance and maintenance of the work required to control or extinguish such fires.

(b) Contributions

The Secretary of the Interior shall require in connection with any project for the control or extinguishment of fires in any inactive coal mine on any lands not owned or controlled by the United States or any of its agencies, except where such project is necessary for the protection of lands or other property owned or controlled by the United States or any of its agencies, (1) that the State or person owning or controlling such lands contribute on a matching basis 50 per centum of the cost of planning and executing such project, or (2), if such State or person furnishes evidence satisfactory to the Secretary of the Interior of an inability to make the matching contribution herein provided for, that such State or person pay to the Government, within such period of time as the Secretary of the Interior shall determine, an amount equal to 50 per centum of the cost of planning and executing such project. At least 75 per centum of the funds expended in any fiscal year, from any appropriation available to carry out the purposes of this chapter, in connection with projects for the control or extinguishment of fires in inactive coal mines where such action is not necessary for the protection of lands or other property owned or controlled by the United States or any of its agencies, shall be expended in conformity with clause (1) of this subsection.

(Aug. 31, 1954, ch. 1156, §5, 68 Stat. 1010.)
30 U.S.C. § 1015 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 23: GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES / Section 1015: Requirement for lessees
Requirement for lessees
Status: in_force

Leases under this chapter may be issued only to citizens of the United States, associations of such citizens, corporations organized under the laws of the United States or of any State or the District of Columbia, or governmental units, including, without limitation, municipalities.

(Pub. L. 91–581, §16, Dec. 24, 1970, 84 Stat. 1571; Pub. L. 109–58, title II, §236(16), Aug. 8, 2005, 119 Stat. 672.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2005—Pub. L. 109–58 inserted section catchline.
30 U.S.C. § 221 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 3A: LEASES AND PROSPECTING PERMITS / Subchapter IV: OIL AND GAS / Section 221: Omitted
Omitted
Status: omitted

Editorial Notes

Codification

Sections expired by their own terms. They provided as follows:

Section 221, acts Feb. 25, 1920, ch. 85, §13, 41 Stat. 441; Aug. 21, 1935, ch. 599, §1, 49 Stat. 674, provided for prospecting permits, their terms and conditions, extension, location of lands, marking land, notice of application for permits, permits in Alaska, exchanging permits for leases, and limited extensions to Dec. 31, 1938.

Section 222, act Jan. 11, 1922, ch. 28, 42 Stat. 356, authorized Secretary of the Interior to extend time for drilling not to exceed three years.

Section 222a, act Apr. 5, 1926, ch. 107, §1, 44 Stat. 236, authorized a further extension of two years for drilling.

Section 222b, act Apr. 5, 1926, ch. 107, §2, 44 Stat. 236, provided for extension of expired permits for a period of two years from Apr. 5, 1926.

Section 222c, act Mar. 9, 1928, ch. 168, §1, 45 Stat. 252, authorized a two year extension for permits.

Section 222d, act Mar. 9, 1928, ch. 168, §2, 45 Stat. 252, authorized a two year extension of permits already expired.

Section 222e, act Jan. 23, 1930, ch. 25, §1, 46 Stat. 58, provided that permits issued or extended for three years might be further for three years.

Section 222f, act Jan. 23, 1930, ch. 25, §2, 46 Stat. 59, provided for an extension of permits already expired for a period of three years from Jan. 23, 1930.

Section 222g, act June 30, 1932, ch. 319, §1, 47 Stat. 445, provided for a further extension of three years.

Section 222h, act June 30, 1932, ch. 319, §2, 47 Stat. 446, authorized an extension, for permits already expired, of three years from June 30, 1932.

Section 222i, acts Aug. 26, 1937, ch. 828, 50 Stat. 842; Aug. 11, 1939, ch. 716, 53 Stat. 1418, provided for final extension of prospecting permits, outstanding on Dec. 31, 1937, to Dec. 31, 1939.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Compromise of Claims for Accrued Rental

Act July 29, 1942, ch. 534, §2, 56 Stat. 726, authorized Secretary of the Interior to make a compromise settlement of any claim for accrued rental under a lease issued pursuant to the provisions of section 221 of this title, in any case in which he determined that it would be financially beneficial to the United States to make such a compromise settlement or in any case in which he determined that collection of the full amount of such accrued rental from the lessee was inadvisable because of the lessee's financial resources being limited.
30 U.S.C. § 872 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 22: MINE SAFETY AND HEALTH / Subchapter III: INTERIM MANDATORY SAFETY STANDARDS FOR UNDERGROUND COAL MINES / Section 872: Maps
Maps
Status: in_force

(a) Fireproof repository; contents; certification

The operator of a coal mine shall have in a fireproof repository located in an area on the surface of the mine chosen by the mine operator to minimize the danger of destruction by fire or other hazard, an accurate and up-to-date map of such mine drawn on scale. Such map shall show the active workings, all pillared, worked out, and abandoned areas, except as provided in this section, entries and aircourses with the direction of airflow indicated by arrows, contour lines of all elevations, elevations of all main and cross or side entries, dip of the coalbed, escapeways, adjacent mine workings within one thousand feet, mines above or below, water pools above, and either producing or abandoned oil and gas wells located within five hundred feet of such mine and any underground area of such mine, and such other information as the Secretary may require. Such map shall identify those areas of the mine which have been pillared, worked out, or abandoned which are inaccessible or cannot be entered safely and on which no information is available. Such map shall be made or certified by a registered engineer or a registered surveyor of the State in which the mine is located. Such map shall be kept up to date by temporary notations and such map shall be revised and supplemented at intervals prescribed by the Secretary on the basis of a survey made or certified by such engineer or surveyor.

(b) Availability for inspection; confidential copies

The coal mine map and any revision and supplement thereof shall be available for inspection by the Secretary or his authorized representative, by coal mine inspectors of the State in which the mine is located, by miners in the mine and their representatives and by operators of adjacent coal mines and by persons owning, leasing, or residing on surface areas of such mines or areas adjacent to such mines. The operator shall furnish to the Secretary or his authorized representative and to the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, upon request, one or more copies of such map and any revision and supplement thereof. Such map or revision and supplement thereof shall be kept confidential and its contents shall not be divulged to any other person, except to the extent necessary to carry out the provisions of this chapter and in connection with the functions and responsibilities of the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development.

(c) Notification of mine closures; filing of revised and supplemental map; certification

Whenever an operator permanently closes or abandons a coal mine, or temporarily closes a coal mine for a period of more than ninety days, he shall promptly notify the Secretary of such closure. Within sixty days of the permanent closure or abandonment of the mine, or, when the mine is temporarily closed, upon the expiration of a period of ninety days from the date of closure, the operator shall file with the Secretary a copy of the mine map revised and supplemented to the date of the closure. Such copy of the mine map shall be certified by a registered surveyor or registered engineer of the State in which the mine is located and shall be available for public inspection.

(Pub. L. 91–173, title III, §312, Dec. 30, 1969, 83 Stat. 785.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

This chapter, referred to in subsec. (b), was in the original "this Act", meaning Pub. L. 91–173, Dec. 30, 1969, 83 Stat. 742, known as the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act of 1977, which is classified principally to this chapter. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 801 of this title and Tables.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date

Section operative 90 days after Dec. 30, 1969, except to the extent an earlier date is specifically provided for in Pub. L. 91–173, see section 509 of Pub. L. 91–173, set out as a note under section 801 of this title.
30 U.S.C. § 1424 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 26: DEEP SEABED HARD MINERAL RESOURCES / Subchapter I: REGULATION OF EXPLORATION AND COMMERCIAL RECOVERY BY UNITED STATES CITIZENS / Section 1424: Monitoring of activities of licensees and permittees
Monitoring of activities of licensees and permittees
Status: in_force

Each license and permit issued under this subchapter shall require the licensee or permittee—

(1) to allow the Administrator to place appropriate Federal officers or employees as observers aboard vessels used by the licensee or permittee in exploration or commercial recovery activities (A) to monitor such activities at such time, and to such extent, as the Administrator deems reasonable and necessary to assess the effectiveness of the terms, conditions, and restrictions of the license or permit, and (B) to report to the Administrator whenever such officers or employees have reason to believe there is a failure to comply with such terms, conditions, and restrictions;

(2) to cooperate with such officers and employees in the performance of monitoring functions; and

(3) to monitor the environmental effects of the exploration and commercial recovery activities in accordance with guidelines issued by the Administrator and to submit such information as the Administrator finds to be necessary and appropriate to assess environmental impacts and to develop and evaluate possible methods of mitigating adverse environmental effects.

(Pub. L. 96–283, title I, §114, June 28, 1980, 94 Stat. 572.)
30 U.S.C. § 293 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 4: LEASE OF GOLD, SILVER, OR QUICKSILVER DEPOSITS WHEN TITLE CONFIRMED BY COURT OF PRIVATE LAND CLAIMS / Section 293: Duties of Secretary of the Interior
Duties of Secretary of the Interior
Status: in_force

The Secretary of the Interior is hereby authorized to perform any and all acts and to make such rules and regulations as may be necessary and proper for the purpose of carrying this chapter into full force and effect.

(June 8, 1926, ch. 503, §3, 44 Stat. 710.)
30 U.S.C. § 15 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 1: UNITED STATES BUREAU OF MINES / Section 15: Repealed. Pub. L. 86-533, §1(17), June 29, 1960, 74 Stat. 248
Repealed. Pub. L. 86-533, §1(17), June 29, 1960, 74 Stat. 248
Status: repealed

Section, act Dec. 18, 1942, ch. 764, §3, 56 Stat. 1057, related to reports to Congress of expenditures and donations to laboratory established under sections 13 to 16 of this title.
30 U.S.C. § 28c (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 2: MINERAL LANDS AND REGULATIONS IN GENERAL / Section 28c: Length and termination of deferment
Length and termination of deferment
Status: in_force

The period for which said deferment may be granted shall end when the conditions justifying deferment have been removed: Provided, That the initial period shall not exceed one year but may be renewed for a further period of one year if justifiable conditions exist: Provided further, That the relief available under sections 28b to 28e of this title is in addition to any relief available under any other Act of Congress with respect to mining claims.

(June 21, 1949, ch. 232, §2, 63 Stat. 215.)
30 U.S.C. § 1006 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 23: GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES / Section 1006: Acreage limitations
Acreage limitations
Status: in_force

A geothermal lease shall embrace a reasonably compact area of not more than 5,120 acres, except where a departure therefrom is occasioned by an irregular subdivision or subdivisions. No person, association, or corporation, except as otherwise provided in this chapter, shall take, hold, own, or control at one time, whether acquired directly from the Secretary under this chapter or otherwise, any direct or indirect interest in Federal geothermal leases in any one State exceeding 51,200 acres, including leases acquired under the provisions of section 1003 of this title.

(Pub. L. 91–581, §7, Dec. 24, 1970, 84 Stat. 1569; Pub. L. 109–58, title II, §235, Aug. 8, 2005, 119 Stat. 671.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2005—Pub. L. 109–58 inserted section catchline, substituted "5,120 acres" for "two thousand five hundred and sixty acres" and "51,200 acres" for "twenty thousand four hundred and eighty acres" in text, and struck out second par. which read as follows: "At any time after fifteen years from December 24, 1970, the Secretary, after public hearings, may increase this maximum holding in any one State by regulation, not to exceed fifty-one thousand two hundred acres."
30 U.S.C. § 1315 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 25: SURFACE MINING CONTROL AND RECLAMATION / Subchapter VIII: UNIVERSITY COAL RESEARCH LABORATORIES / Section 1315: Advisory Council on Coal Research
Advisory Council on Coal Research
Status: in_force

(a) Establishment; members

There is established an Advisory Council on Coal Research which shall be composed of—

(1) the Secretary of Energy, who shall be Chairman;

(2) the Director of the United States Bureau of Mines of the Department of the Interior;

(3) the President of the National Academy of Sciences;

(4) the President of the National Academy of Engineering;

(5) the Director of the United States Geological Survey; and

(6) six members appointed by the Secretary of Energy from among individuals who, by virtue of experience or training, are knowledgeable in the field of coal research and mining, and who are representatives of institutions of higher education, industrial users of coal and coal-derived fuels, the coal industry, mine workers, nonindustrial consumer groups, and institutions concerned with the preservation of the environment.

(b) Furnishing advice to Secretary of Energy

The Advisory Council shall advise the Secretary of Energy with respect to the general administration of this subchapter, and furnish such additional advice as he may request.

(c) Annual report to President; transmittal to Congress

The Advisory Council shall make an annual report of its findings and recommendations (including recommendations for changes in the provisions of this subchapter) to the President not later than December 31 of each calendar year. The President shall transmit each such report to the Congress.

(d) Compensation and travel expenses

(1) Members of the Council who are not regular officers or employees of the United States Government shall, while serving on business of the Council, be entitled to receive compensation at rates fixed by the Secretary of Energy but not exceeding the daily rate prescribed for GS-18 of the General Schedule under section 5332 of title 5 and while so serving away from their homes or regular places of business, they may be allowed travel expenses, including per diem in lieu of subsistence, as authorized by section 5703 of title 5 for persons in the Government service employed intermittently.

(2) Members of the Council who are officers or employees of the Government shall be reimbursed for travel, subsistence, and other necessary expenses incurred by them in carrying out their duties on the Council.

(e) Alternate members

Whenever a member of the Council appointed under clauses (1) through (5) is unable to attend a meeting, that member shall appoint an appropriate alternate to represent him for that meeting.

(Pub. L. 95–87, title VIII, §805, Aug. 3, 1977, 91 Stat. 528; Pub. L. 95–617, title VI, §604(c), Nov. 9, 1978, 92 Stat. 3167; Pub. L. 102–285, §10(b), May 18, 1992, 106 Stat. 172.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

1978—Pub. L. 95–617 substituted "Secretary of Energy" for "Administrator" wherever appearing.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Change of Name

"United States Bureau of Mines" substituted for "Bureau of Mines" in subsec. (a)(2) pursuant to section 10(b) of Pub. L. 102–285, set out as a note under section 1 of this title. For provisions relating to closure and transfer of functions of the United States Bureau of Mines, see Transfer of Functions note set out under section 1 of this title.

Termination of Reporting Requirements

For termination, effective May 15, 2000, of provisions in subsec. (c) of this section relating to requirement that the President transmit each annual report to Congress, see section 3003 of Pub. L. 104–66, as amended, set out as a note under section 1113 of Title 31, Money and Finance, and page 153 of House Document No. 103–7.

Termination of Advisory Committees

Advisory committees established after Jan. 5, 1973, to terminate not later than the expiration of the 2-year period beginning on the date of their establishment, unless, in the case of a committee established by the President or an officer of the Federal Government, such committee is renewed by appropriate action prior to the expiration of such 2-year period, or in the case of a committee established by the Congress, its duration is otherwise provided for by law. See section 1013 of Title 5, Government Organization and Employees.

References in Other Laws to GS–16, 17, or 18 Pay Rates

References in laws to the rates of pay for GS–16, 17, or 18, or to maximum rates of pay under the General Schedule, to be considered references to rates payable under specified sections of Title 5, Government Organization and Employees, see section 529 [title I, §101(c)(1)] of Pub. L. 101–509, set out in a note under section 5376 of Title 5.
30 U.S.C. § 1717 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 29: OIL AND GAS ROYALTY MANAGEMENT / Subchapter I: FEDERAL ROYALTY MANAGEMENT AND ENFORCEMENT / Section 1717: Hearings and investigations
Hearings and investigations
Status: in_force

(a) Authorization; affidavits, oaths, subpenas, testimony, and payment of witnesses

In carrying out his duties under this chapter the Secretary may conduct any investigation or other inquiry necessary and appropriate and may conduct, after notice, any hearing or audit, necessary and appropriate to carrying out his duties under this chapter. In connection with any such hearings, inquiry, investigation, or audit, the Secretary is also authorized where reasonably necessary—

(1) to require by special or general order, any person to submit in writing such affidavits and answers to questions as the Secretary may reasonably prescribe, which submission shall be made within such reasonable period and under oath or otherwise, as may be necessary;

(2) to administer oaths;

(3) to require by subpena the attendance and testimony of witnesses and the production of all books, papers, production and financial records, documents, matter, and materials, as the Secretary may request;

(4) to order testimony to be taken by deposition before any person who is designated by the Secretary and who has the power to administer oaths, and to compel testimony and the production of evidence in the same manner as authorized under paragraph (3) of this subsection; and

(5) to pay witnesses the same fees and mileage as are paid in like circumstances in the courts of the United States.

(b) Refusal to obey subpena

In case of refusal to obey a subpena served upon any person under this section, the district court of the United States for any district in which such person is found, resides, or transacts business, upon application by the Attorney General at the request of the Secretary and after notice to such person, shall have jurisdiction to issue an order requiring such person to appear and give testimony before the Secretary or to appear and produce documents before the Secretary. Any failure to obey such order of the court may be punished by such court as contempt thereof and subject to a penalty of up to $10,000 a day.

(Pub. L. 97–451, title I, §107, Jan. 12, 1983, 96 Stat. 2452.)
30 U.S.C. § 959 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 22: MINE SAFETY AND HEALTH / Subchapter V: ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS / Section 959: Study of coordination of Federal and State activities; report
Study of coordination of Federal and State activities; report
Status: in_force

(a) The Secretary shall make a study to determine the best manner to coordinate Federal and State activities in the field of coal or other mine health and safety so as to achieve (1) maximum health and safety protection for miners, (2) an avoidance of duplication of effort, (3) maximum effectiveness, (4) a reduction of delay to a minimum, and (5) most effective use of Federal inspectors.

(b) The Secretary shall make a report of the results of his study to the Congress as soon as practicable after December 30, 1969.

(Pub. L. 91–173, title V, §512, Dec. 30, 1969, 83 Stat. 804; Pub. L. 95–164, title III, §303(g), Nov. 9, 1977, 91 Stat. 1321.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

1977—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 95–164 inserted reference to mines other than coal mines.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 1977 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 95–164 effective 120 days after Nov. 9, 1977, except as otherwise provided, see section 307 of Pub. L. 95–164, set out as a note under section 801 of this title.
30 U.S.C. § 182 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 3A: LEASES AND PROSPECTING PERMITS / Subchapter I: GENERAL PROVISIONS / Section 182: Lands disposed of with reservation of deposits of coal, etc.
Lands disposed of with reservation of deposits of coal, etc.
Status: in_force

The provisions of this chapter shall also apply to all deposits of coal, phosphate, sodium, oil, oil shale, gilsonite (including all vein-type solid hydrocarbons), or gas in the lands of the United States, which lands may have been or may be disposed of under laws reserving to the United States such deposits, with the right to prospect for, mine, and remove the same, subject to such conditions as are or may hereafter be provided by such laws reserving such deposits.

(Feb. 25, 1920, ch. 85, §34, 41 Stat. 450; Pub. L. 86–705, §7(a), Sept. 2, 1960, 74 Stat. 790; Pub. L. 97–78, §1(1), Nov. 16, 1981, 95 Stat. 1070.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

1981—Pub. L. 97–78 substituted "gilsonite (including all vein-type solid hydrocarbons)," for "native asphalt, solid and semisolid bitumen, and bituminous rock (including oil-impregnated rock or sands from which oil is recoverable only by special treatment after the deposit is mined or quarried)".

1960—Pub. L. 86–705 included native asphalt, solid and semisolid bitumen, and bituminous rock.
30 U.S.C. § 1511 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 27: GEOTHERMAL ENERGY / Subchapter I: PROJECT LOANS / Section 1511: Loans for geothermal reservoir confirmation
Loans for geothermal reservoir confirmation
Status: in_force

(a) Authorization; purposes

The Secretary of Energy (hereafter in this chapter referred to as the "Secretary") is authorized to make a loan to any person, from funds appropriated (pursuant to this subchapter) to the Geothermal Resources Development Fund established under section 1144 1 of this title, to assist such person in undertaking and carrying out a project which (1) is designed to explore for or determine the economic viability of a geothermal reservoir and (2) consists of surface exploration and the drilling of one or more exploratory wells.

(b) Repayment rates

Subject to subsection (c) and to section 1513(b) of this title, any loan under subsection (a) shall be repayable out of revenue from production of the geothermal energy reservoir with respect to which the loan was made, at a rate, in any year, not to exceed 20 per centum of the gross revenue from the reservoir in that year; except that if any disposition of the geothermal rights to the reservoir is made to one or more other persons by the borrower, the full amount of the loan balance outstanding, or so much of the loan balance outstanding as is equal to the full amount of the compensation realized by the borrower upon such disposition, whichever is less, shall be repaid immediately. In any case where the reservoir is confirmed (as determined by the Secretary), the Secretary may impute a reasonable revenue for purposes of determining repayment if—

(1) reasonable efforts are not made to put such reservoir in commercial operation,

(2) the borrower (or any such other person) utilizes the resources of the reservoir without a sale of the energy or geothermal energy resources therefrom, or

(3) a sale of energy or geothermal energy resources from the reservoir is made for an unreasonably low price;

except that no such imputation of revenue shall be made during the three-year period immediately following such reservoir confirmation. In the event of failure to begin production of revenue (or, where no sale of energy or geothermal energy resources is made, to begin production of energy for commercial use) within five years after the date of such reservoir confirmation, the Secretary may take action to recover the value, not to exceed the amount of the unpaid balance of the loan plus any accrued interest thereon, of any assets of the project in question, including resource rights.

(c) Cancellation of unpaid balance and accrued interest

The Secretary may at any time cancel the unpaid balance and any accrued interest on any loan made under this section if he determines, on the basis of evidence presented by the loan recipient or otherwise, that the geothermal energy reservoir with respect to which the loan was made has characteristics which make that reservoir economically or technically unacceptable for commercial development.

(d) "Person" defined

As used in this subchapter, the term "person" includes municipalities, electric cooperatives, industrial development agencies, nonprofit organizations, and Indian tribes, as well as the entities included within such term under section 1 of title 1.

(Pub. L. 96–294, title VI, §611, June 30, 1980, 94 Stat. 763.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

This chapter, referred to in subsec. (a), was in the original "this title", meaning title VI of Pub. L. 96–294, June 30, 1980, 94 Stat. 763, known as the Geothermal Energy Act of 1980. For complete classification of title VI to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 1501 of this title and Tables.

Section 1144 of this title, referred to in subsec. (a), was repealed by Pub. L. 116–260, div. Z, title III, §3002(i)(3), Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2495.

1 See References in Text note below.
30 U.S.C. § 49e (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 2: MINERAL LANDS AND REGULATIONS IN GENERAL / Section 49e: Annual labor or improvements on Alaskan mining claims; affidavits; burden of proof; forfeitures; location anew of claims; perjury
Annual labor or improvements on Alaskan mining claims; affidavits; burden of proof; forfeitures; location anew of claims; perjury
Status: in_force

During each year and until patent has been issued therefor, at least $100 worth of labor shall be performed or improvements made on, or for the benefit or development of, in accordance with existing law, each mining claim in Alaska heretofore or hereafter located. And the locator or owner of such claim or some other person having knowledge of the facts may also make and file with the said recorder of the district in which the claims shall be situated an affidavit showing the performance of labor or making of improvements to the amount of $100 as aforesaid and specifying the character and extent of such work. Such affidavits shall set forth the following: First, the name or number of the mining claims and where situated; second, the number of days' work done and the character and value of the improvements placed thereon; third, the date of the performance of such labor and of making improvements; fourth, at whose instance the work was done or the improvements made; fifth, the actual amount paid for work and improvement, and by whom paid when the same was not done by the owner. Such affidavit shall be prima facie evidence of the performance of such work or making of such improvements, but if such affidavits be not filed within the time fixed by this section the burden of proof shall be upon the claimant to establish the performance of such annual work and improvements. And upon failure of the locator or owner of any such claim to comply with the provisions of this section, as to performance of work and improvements, such claim shall become forfeited and open to location by others as if no location of the same had ever been made. The affidavits required may be made before any officer authorized to administer oaths, and the provisions of sections 1621 and 1622 of title 18, are extended to such affidavits. Said affidavits shall be filed not later than ninety days after the close of the year in which such work is performed.

(Mar. 2, 1907, ch. 2559, §1, 34 Stat. 1243.)

Editorial Notes

Codification

"Sections 1621 and 1622 of title 18" substituted in text for "sections fifty-three hundred and ninety-two and fifty-three hundred ninety-three of the Revised Statutes", which had been classified to section 231 and 232 of former Title 18, Criminal Code and Criminal Procedure, on authority of act June 25, 1948, ch. 645, 62 Stat. 683, the first section of which enacted Title 18, Crimes and Criminal Procedure.

Section was formerly classified to section 384 of Title 48, Territories and Insular Possessions.

Executive Documents

Admission of Alaska as State

Admission of Alaska into the Union was accomplished Jan. 3, 1959, on issuance of Proc. No. 3269, Jan. 3, 1959, 24 F.R. 81, 73 Stat. c16, as required by sections 1 and 8(c) of Pub. L. 85–508, July 7, 1958, 72 Stat. 339, set out as notes preceding section 21 of Title 48, Territories and Insular Possessions.
30 U.S.C. § 23 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 2: MINERAL LANDS AND REGULATIONS IN GENERAL / Section 23: Length of claims on veins or lodes
Length of claims on veins or lodes
Status: in_force

Mining claims upon veins or lodes of quartz or other rock in place bearing gold, silver, cinnabar, lead, tin, copper, or other valuable deposits, located prior to May 10, 1872, shall be governed as to length along the vein or lode by the customs, regulations, and laws in force at the date of their location. A mining claim located after the 10th day of May 1872, whether located by one or more persons, may equal, but shall not exceed, one thousand five hundred feet in length along the vein or lode; but no location of a mining claim shall be made until the discovery of the vein or lode within the limits of the claim located. No claim shall extend more than three hundred feet on each side of the middle of the vein at the surface, nor shall any claim be limited by any mining regulation to less than twenty-five feet on each side of the middle of the vein at the surface, except where adverse rights existing on the 10th day of May 1872 render such limitation necessary. The end lines of each claim shall be parallel to each other.

(R.S. §2320.)

Editorial Notes

Codification

R.S. §2320 derived from act May 10, 1872, ch. 152, §2, 17 Stat. 91.
30 U.S.C. § 965 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 22: MINE SAFETY AND HEALTH / Subchapter V: ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS / Section 965: Brookwood-Sago Mine Safety Grants
Brookwood-Sago Mine Safety Grants
Status: in_force

(a) In general

The Secretary of Labor shall establish a program to award competitive grants for education and training, to be known as Brookwood-Sago Mine Safety Grants, to carry out the purposes of this section.

(b) Purposes

It is the purpose of this section,1 to provide for the funding of education and training programs to better identify, avoid, and prevent unsafe working conditions in and around mines.

(c) Eligibility

To be eligible to receive a grant under this section, an entity shall—

(1) be a public or private nonprofit entity; and

(2) submit to the Secretary of Labor an application at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary may require.

(d) Use of funds

Amounts received under a grant under this section shall be used to establish and implement education and training programs, or to develop training materials for employers and miners, concerning safety and health topics in mines, as determined appropriate by the Mine Safety and Health Administration.

(e) Awarding of grants

(1) Annual basis

Grants under this section shall be awarded on an annual basis.

(2) Special emphasis

In awarding grants under this section, the Secretary of Labor shall give special emphasis to programs and materials that target workers in smaller mines, including training miners and employers about new Mine Safety and Health Administration standards, high risk activities, or hazards identified by such Administration.

(3) Priority

In awarding grants under this section, the Secretary of Labor shall give priority to the funding of pilot and demonstration projects that the Secretary determines will provide opportunities for broad applicability for mine safety.

(f) Evaluation

The Secretary of Labor shall use not less than 1 percent of the funds made available to carry out this section in a fiscal year to conduct evaluations of the projects funded under grants under this section.

(g) Authorization of appropriations

There are authorized to be appropriated for each fiscal year, such sums as may be necessary to carry out this section.

(Pub. L. 109–236, §14, June 15, 2006, 120 Stat. 504.)

Editorial Notes

Codification

Section was enacted as part of the Mine Improvement and New Emergency Response Act of 2006, also known as the MINER Act, and not as part of the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act of 1977 which comprises this chapter.

1 So in original. The comma probably should not appear.
30 U.S.C. § 1801 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 30: NATIONAL CRITICAL MATERIALS COUNCIL / Section 1801: Repealed. Pub. L. 116-260, div. Z, title VII, §7002(n)(1), Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2576
Repealed. Pub. L. 116-260, div. Z, title VII, §7002(n)(1), Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2576
Status: repealed

Section 1801, Pub. L. 98–373, title II, §202, July 31, 1984, 98 Stat. 1249, related to Congressional findings and declaration of purposes.

Section 1802, Pub. L. 98–373, title II, §203, July 31, 1984, 98 Stat. 1250, related to establishment of National Critical Materials Council.

Section 1803, Pub. L. 98–373, title II, §204, July 31, 1984, 98 Stat. 1250, related to responsibilities and authorities of Council.

Section 1804, Pub. L. 98–373, title II, §205, July 31, 1984, 98 Stat. 1251, related to program and policy for advanced materials research and technology.

Section 1805, Pub. L. 98–373, title II, §206, July 31, 1984, 98 Stat. 1252, related to innovation in basic and advanced materials industries.

Section 1806, Pub. L. 98–373, title II, §207, July 31, 1984, 98 Stat. 1252, related to compensation of members and reimbursement.

Section 1807, Pub. L. 98–373, title II, §208, July 31, 1984, 98 Stat. 1253, related to Executive Director.

Section 1808, Pub. L. 98–373, title II, §209, July 31, 1984, 98 Stat. 1253, related to responsibilities and duties of Director.

Section 1809, Pub. L. 98–373, title II, §210, July 31, 1984, 98 Stat. 1253; Pub. L. 100–418, title V, §5183, Aug. 23, 1988, 102 Stat. 1454, related to general authority of Council.

Section 1810, Pub. L. 98–373, title II, §211, July 31, 1984, 98 Stat. 1254; Pub. L. 100–418, title V, §5184, Aug. 23, 1988, 102 Stat. 1454, related to authorization of appropriations.

Section 1811, Pub. L. 98–373, title II, §212, July 31, 1984, 98 Stat. 1254, defined the term "materials".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Short Title

Pub. L. 98–373, title II, §201, July 31, 1984, 98 Stat. 1248, provided that title II of Pub. L. 98–373 (enacting this chapter) could be cited as the "National Critical Materials Act of 1984", prior to repeal by Pub. L. 116–260, div. Z, title VII, §7002(n)(1), Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2576.
30 U.S.C. § 1275 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 25: SURFACE MINING CONTROL AND RECLAMATION / Subchapter V: CONTROL OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS OF SURFACE COAL MINING / Section 1275: Review by Secretary
Review by Secretary
Status: in_force

(a) Application for review of order or notice; investigation; hearing; notice

(1) A permittee issued a notice or order by the Secretary pursuant to the provisions of paragraphs (2) and (3) of subsection (a) of section 1271 of this title, or pursuant to a Federal program or the Federal lands program or any person having an interest which is or may be adversely affected by such notice or order or by any modification, vacation, or termination of such notice or order, may apply to the Secretary for review of the notice or order within thirty days of receipt thereof or within thirty days of its modification, vacation, or termination. Upon receipt of such application, the Secretary shall cause such investigation to be made as he deems appropriate. Such investigation shall provide an opportunity for a public hearing, at the request of the applicant or the person having an interest which is or may be adversely affected, to enable the applicant or such person to present information relating to the issuance and continuance of such notice or order or the modification, vacation, or termination thereof. The filing of an application for review under this subsection shall not operate as a stay of any order or notice.

(2) The permittee and other interested persons shall be given written notice of the time and place of the hearing at least five days prior thereto. Any such hearing shall be of record and shall be subject to section 554 of title 5.

(b) Findings of fact; issuance of decision

Upon receiving the report of such investigation, the Secretary shall make findings of fact, and shall issue a written decision, incorporating therein an order vacating, affirming, modifying, or terminating the notice or order, or the modification, vacation, or termination of such notice or order complained of and incorporate his findings therein. Where the application for review concerns an order for cessation of surface coal mining and reclamation operations issued pursuant to the provisions of paragraph (2) or (3) of subsection (a) of section 1271 of this title, the Secretary shall issue the written decision within thirty days of the receipt of the application for review, unless temporary relief has been granted by the Secretary pursuant to subsection (c) of this section or by the court pursuant to subsection (c) of section 1276 of this title.

(c) Temporary relief; issuance of order or decision granting or denying relief

Pending completion of the investigation and hearing required by this section, the applicant may file with the Secretary a written request that the Secretary grant temporary relief from any notice or order issued under section 1271 of this title, a Federal program or the Federal lands program together with a detailed statement giving reasons for granting such relief. The Secretary shall issue an order or decision granting or denying such relief expeditiously: Provided, That where the applicant requests relief from an order for cessation of coal mining and reclamation operations issued pursuant to paragraph (2) or (3) of subsection (a) of section 1271 of this title, the order or decision on such a request shall be issued within five days of its receipt. The Secretary may grant such relief, under such conditions as he may prescribe, if—

(1) a hearing has been held in the locality of the permit area on the request for temporary relief in which all parties were given an opportunity to be heard;

(2) the applicant shows that there is substantial likelihood that the findings of the Secretary will be favorable to him; and

(3) such relief will not adversely affect the health or safety of the public or cause significant, imminent environmental harm to land, air, or water resources.

(d) Notice and hearing with respect to section 1271 order to show cause

Following the issuance of an order to show cause as to why a permit should not be suspended or revoked pursuant to section 1271 of this title, the Secretary shall hold a public hearing after giving written notice of the time, place, and date thereof. Any such hearing shall be of record and shall be subject to section 554 of title 5. Within sixty days following the public hearing, the Secretary shall issue and furnish to the permittee and all other parties to the hearing a written decision, and the reasons therefor, concerning suspension or revocation of the permit. If the Secretary revokes the permit, the permittee shall immediately cease surface coal mining operations on the permit area and shall complete reclamation within a period specified by the Secretary, or the Secretary shall declare as forfeited the performance bonds for the operation.

(e) Costs

Whenever an order is issued under this section, or as a result of any administrative proceeding under this chapter, at the request of any person, a sum equal to the aggregate amount of all costs and expenses (including attorney fees) as determined by the Secretary to have been reasonably incurred by such person for or in connection with his participation in such proceedings, including any judicial review of agency actions, may be assessed against either party as the court, resulting from judicial review or the Secretary, resulting from administrative proceedings, deems proper.

(Pub. L. 95–87, title V, §525, Aug. 3, 1977, 91 Stat. 511.)
30 U.S.C. § 1468 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 26: DEEP SEABED HARD MINERAL RESOURCES / Subchapter III: ENFORCEMENT AND MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS / Section 1468: Regulations
Regulations
Status: in_force

(a) Proposed regulations

Not later than 270 days after June 28, 1980, the Administrator shall solicit the views of the agency heads referred to in section 1419(b) of this title and of interested persons, and issue, in accordance with section 553 of title 5, such proposed regulations as are required by or are necessary and appropriate to implement subchapters I and II and this subchapter. The Administrator shall hold at least one public hearing on such proposed regulations.

(b) Final regulations

Not later than 180 days after the date on which proposed regulations are issued pursuant to subsection (a), the Administrator shall solicit the views of the agency heads referred to in section 1419(b) of this title and of interested persons, consider the comments received during the public hearing required in subsection (a) and any written comments on the proposed regulations received by the Administrator, and issue, in accordance with section 553 of title 5, such regulations as are required by or are necessary and appropriate to implement subchapters I and II and this subchapter.

(c) Amendments

The Administrator may at any time amend regulations issued pursuant to subsection (b) as the Administrator determines to be necessary and appropriate in order to provide for the conservation of natural resources within the meaning of section 1420 of this title, protection of the environment, and the safety of life and property at sea. Such amended regulations shall apply to all exploration or commercial recovery activities conducted under any license or permit issued or maintained pursuant to this chapter; except that any such amended regulations which provide for conservation of natural resources shall apply to exploration or commercial recovery conducted under an existing license or permit during the present term of such license or permit only if the Administrator determines that such amended regulations providing for conservation of natural resources will not impose serious or irreparable economic hardship on the licensee or permittee. Any amendment to regulations under this subsection shall be made on the record after an opportunity for an agency hearing.

(d) Consistency

This chapter and the regulations issued under this chapter shall not be deemed to supersede any other Federal laws or treaties or regulations issued thereunder.

(Pub. L. 96–283, title III, §308, June 28, 1980, 94 Stat. 581.)
30 U.S.C. § 1902 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 31: MARINE MINERAL RESOURCES RESEARCH / Section 1902: Research program
Research program
Status: in_force

(a) In general

The Secretary shall establish and carry out a program of research on marine mineral resources.

(b) Program goal

The goal of the program shall be to—

(1) promote research, identification, assessment, and exploration of marine mineral resources in an environmentally responsible manner;

(2) assist in developing domestic technologies required for efficient and environmentally sound development of marine mineral resources;

(3) coordinate and promote the use of technologies developed with Federal assistance, and the use of available Federal assets, for research, identification, assessment, exploration, and development of marine mineral resources; and

(4) encourage academia and industry to conduct basic and applied research, on a joint basis, through grants, cooperative agreements, or contracts with the Federal Government.

(c) Responsibilities of Secretary

In carrying out the program, the Secretary shall—

(1) promote and coordinate partnerships between industry, government, and academia to research, identify, assess, and explore marine mineral resources in an environmentally sound manner;

(2) undertake programs to develop the basic information necessary to the long-term national interest in marine mineral resources (including seabed mapping) and to ensure that data and information are accessible and widely disseminated as needed and appropriate;

(3) identify, and promote cooperation among agency programs that are developing, technologies developed by other Federal programs that may hold promise for facilitating undersea applications related to marine mineral resources, including technologies related to vessels and other platforms, underwater vehicles, survey and mapping systems, remote power sources, data collection and transmission systems, and various seabed research systems; and

(4) foster communication and coordination between Federal and State agencies, universities, and private entities concerning marine mineral research on seabeds of the continental shelf, ocean basins, and arctic and cold water areas.

In carrying out these responsibilities, the Secretary shall ensure the participation of non-Federal users of technologies and data related to marine mineral resources in planning and priority setting.

(Pub. L. 91–631, title II, §202, as added Pub. L. 104–325, §2(3), Oct. 19, 1996, 110 Stat. 3995.)

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Methane Hydrate Research and Development

Pub. L. 106–193, May 2, 2000, 114 Stat. 234, known as the Methane Hydrate Research and Development Act of 2000, which was set out as a note under this section, was amended and transferred to chapter 32 (§2001 et seq.) of this title by Pub. L. 109–58, title IX, §968, Aug. 8, 2005, 119 Stat. 894.
30 U.S.C. § 28g (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 2: MINERAL LANDS AND REGULATIONS IN GENERAL / Section 28g: Location fee
Location fee
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any other provision of law, for every unpatented mining claim, mill or tunnel site located after August 10, 1993, to the extent provided in advance in Appropriations Acts, pursuant to the Mining Laws of the United States, the locator shall, at the time the location notice is recorded with the Bureau of Land Management, pay to the Secretary of the Interior a location fee, in addition to the claim maintenance fee required by section 28f of this title, of $25.00 per claim.

(Pub. L. 103–66, title X, §10102, Aug. 10, 1993, 107 Stat. 406; Pub. L. 105–277, div. A, §101(e) [title I], Oct. 21, 1998, 112 Stat. 2681–231, 2681–235; Pub. L. 107–63, title I, (2), Nov. 5, 2001, 115 Stat. 419; Pub. L. 108–108, title I, (2), Nov. 10, 2003, 117 Stat. 1245; Pub. L. 110–161, div. F, title I, (3), Dec. 26, 2007, 121 Stat. 2101; Pub. L. 111–8, div. E, title I, Mar. 11, 2009, 123 Stat. 704; Pub. L. 111–88, div. A, title I, Oct. 30, 2009, 123 Stat. 2907.)

Editorial Notes

Codification

Pub. L. 111–88, which directed the amendment of section 28g of title 30, United States Code, was executed by making the amendment to section 10102 of Pub. L. 103–66, which is classified to this section, to reflect the probable intent of Congress. See 2009 Amendment note below.

Pub. L. 110–161, which directed the amendment of section 28 of title 30, United States Code, "in section 28g", was executed by making the amendment to section 10102 of Pub. L. 103–66, which is classified to this section, to reflect the probable intent of Congress. See 2007 Amendment note below.

Pub. L. 108–108, which directed the amendment of section 28 of title 30, United States Code, "in section 28g", was executed by making the amendment to section 10102 of Pub. L. 103–66, which is classified to this section, to reflect the probable intent of Congress. See 2003 Amendment note below.

Pub. L. 107–63, which directed the amendment of section 28f(a) of title 30, United States Code, in section 28g, was executed by making the amendment to section 10102 of Pub. L. 103–66, which is classified to this section, to reflect the probable intent of Congress. See 2001 Amendment note below.

Pub. L. 105–277, which directed the amendment of section 28g of title 30, United States Code, was executed by making the amendment to section 10102 of Pub. L. 103–66, which is classified to this section, to reflect the probable intent of Congress. See 1998 Amendment note below.

Amendments

2009—Pub. L. 111–88 substituted ", to the extent provided in advance in Appropriations Acts," for "and before September 30, 2008,". See Codification note above.

Pub. L. 111–8, which directed the removal of the modifications made by Pub. L. 110–161, was executed by inserting "and before September 30, 2008," before "pursuant to". See 2007 Amendment note below.

2007—Pub. L. 110–161 struck out "and before September 30, 2008," before "pursuant to". See Codification note above.

2003—Pub. L. 108–108 substituted "2008" for "2003". See Codification note above.

2001—Pub. L. 107–63 substituted "2003" for "2001". See Codification note above.

1998—Pub. L. 105–277 substituted "2001" for "1998". See Codification note above.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Similar Provisions

Similar provisions were contained in Pub. L. 102–381, title I, Oct. 5, 1992, 106 Stat. 1378, 1379.
30 U.S.C. § 1904 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 31: MARINE MINERAL RESOURCES RESEARCH / Section 1904: Marine mineral research centers
Marine mineral research centers
Status: in_force

(a) In general

No later than 90 days after October 19, 1996, the Secretary shall designate 3 centers for marine mineral research and related activities.

(b) Concentration

One center shall concentrate primarily on research in the continental shelf regions of the United States, 1 center shall concentrate primarily on research in deep seabed and near-shore environments of islands, and 1 center shall concentrate primarily on research in arctic and cold water regions.

(c) Criteria

In designating a center under this section, the Secretary shall give priority to a university that—

(1) administers a federally funded center for marine minerals research;

(2) matriculates students for advanced degrees in marine geological sciences, nonenergy natural resources, and related fields of science and engineering;

(3) is a United States university with established programs and facilities that primarily focus on marine mineral resources;

(4) has engaged in collaboration and cooperation with industry, governmental agencies, and other universities in the field of marine mineral resources;

(5) has demonstrated significant engineering, development, and design experience in two or more of the following areas; 1

(A) seabed exploration systems;

(B) marine mining systems; and

(C) marine mineral processing systems; and

(6) has been designated by the Secretary as a State Mining and Mineral Resources Research Institute.

(d) Center activities

A center shall—

(1) provide technical assistance to the Secretary concerning marine mineral resources;

(2) advise the Secretary on pertinent international activities in marine mineral resources development;

(3) engage in research, training, and education transfer associated with the characterization and utilization of marine mineral resources; and

(4) promote the efficient identification, assessment, exploration, and management of marine mineral resources in an environmentally sound manner.

(e) Allocation of funds

In distributing funds to the centers designated under subsection (a), the Secretary shall, to the extent practicable, allocate an equal amount to each center.

(f) Limitations

(1) Administrative expenses

Not more than 5 percent of the amount made available to carry out this section during a fiscal year may be used by the Secretary for expenses associated with administration of the program authorized by this section.

(2) Construction costs

None of the funds made available under this section may be used for the construction of a new building or the acquisition, expansion, remodeling, or alteration of an existing building (including site grading and improvement and architect fees).

(Pub. L. 91–631, title II, §204, as added Pub. L. 104–325, §2(3), Oct. 19, 1996, 110 Stat. 3998.)

1 So in original. The semicolon probably should be a colon.
30 U.S.C. § 1236 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 25: SURFACE MINING CONTROL AND RECLAMATION / Subchapter IV: ABANDONED MINE RECLAMATIONS / Section 1236: Reclamation of rural lands
Reclamation of rural lands
Status: in_force

(a) Agreements with landowners for conservation treatment

In order to provide for the control and prevention of erosion and sediment damages from unreclaimed mined lands, and to promote the conservation and development of soil and water resources of unreclaimed mined lands and lands affected by mining, the Secretary of Agriculture is authorized to enter into agreements of not more than ten years with landowners (including owners of water rights), residents, and tenants, and individually or collectively, determined by him to have control for the period of the agreement of lands in question therein, providing for land stabilization, erosion, and sediment control, and reclamation through conservation treatment, including measures for the conservation and development of soil, water (excluding stream channelization), woodland, wildlife, and recreation resources, and agricultural productivity of such lands. Such agreements shall be made by the Secretary with the owners, including owners of water rights, residents, or tenants (collectively or individually) of the lands in question.

(b) Conservation and development plans

The landowner, including the owner of water rights, resident, or tenant shall furnish to the Secretary of Agriculture a conservation and development plan setting forth the proposed land uses and conservation treatment which shall be mutually agreed by the Secretary of Agriculture and the landowner, including owner of water rights, resident, or tenant to be needed on the lands for which the plan was prepared. In those instances where it is determined that the water rights or water supply of a tenant, landowner, including owner of water rights, resident, or tenant have been adversely affected by a surface or underground coal mine operation which has removed or disturbed a stratum so as to significantly affect the hydrologic balance, such plan may include proposed measures to enhance water quality or quantity by means of joint action with other affected landowners, including owner of water rights, residents, or tenants in consultation with appropriate State and Federal agencies.

(c) Agreement to effect plan

Such plan shall be incorporated in an agreement under which the landowner, including owner of water rights, resident, or tenant shall agree with the Secretary of Agriculture to effect the land uses and conservation treatment provided for in such plan on the lands described in the agreement in accordance with the terms and conditions thereof.

(d) Financial and other assistance; determination by Secretary

In return for such agreement by the landowner, including owner of water rights, resident, or tenant, the Secretary of Agriculture is authorized to furnish financial and other assistance to such landowner, including owner of water rights, resident, or tenant, in such amounts and subject to such conditions as the Secretary of Agriculture determines are appropriate in the public interest for carrying out the land use and conservation treatment set forth in the agreement. Grants made under this section, depending on the income-producing potential of the land after reclaiming, shall provide up to 80 per centum of the cost of carrying out such land uses and conservation treatment on not more than one hundred and twenty acres of land occupied by such owner, including water rights owners, resident, or tenant, or on not more than one hundred and twenty acres of land which has been purchased jointly by such landowners, including water rights owners, residents, or tenants, under an agreement for the enhancement of water quality or quantity or on land which has been acquired by an appropriate State or local agency for the purpose of implementing such agreement; except the Secretary may reduce the matching cost share where he determines that (1) the main benefits to be derived from the project are related to improving offsite water quality, offsite esthetic values, or other offsite benefits, and (2) the matching share requirement would place a burden on the landowner which would probably prevent him from participating in the program: Provided, however, That the Secretary of Agriculture may allow for land use and conservation treatment on such lands occupied by any such owner in excess of such one hundred and twenty acre limitation up to three hundred and twenty acres, but in such event the amount of the grant to such landowner to carry out such reclamation on such lands shall be reduced proportionately. Notwithstanding any other provision of this section with regard to acreage limitations, the Secretary of Agriculture may carry out reclamation treatment projects to control erosion and improve water quality on all lands within a hydrologic unit, consisting of not more than 25,000 acres, if the Secretary determines that treatment of such lands as a hydrologic unit will achieve greater reduction in the adverse effects of past surface mining practices than would be achieved if reclamation was done on individual parcels of land.

(e) Termination of agreements

The Secretary of Agriculture may terminate any agreement with a landowner including water rights owners, operator, or occupier by mutual agreement if the Secretary of Agriculture determines that such termination would be in the public interest, and may agree to such modification of agreements previously entered into hereunder as he deems desirable to carry out the purposes of this section or to facilitate the practical administration of the program authorized herein.

(f) Preservation and surrender of history and allotments

Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Secretary of Agriculture, to the extent he deems it desirable to carry out the purposes of this section, may provide in any agreement hereinunder for (1) preservation for a period not to exceed the period covered by the agreement and an equal period thereafter of the cropland, crop acreage, and allotment history applicable to land covered by the agreement for the purpose of any Federal program under which such history is used as a basis for an allotment or other limitation on the production of such crop; or (2) surrender of any such history and allotments.

(g) Rules and regulations

The Secretary of Agriculture shall be authorized to issue such rules and regulations as he determines are necessary to carry out the provisions of this section.

(h) Utilization of Natural Resources Conservation Service

In carrying out the provisions of this section, the Secretary of Agriculture shall utilize the services of the Natural Resources Conservation Service.

(i) Authorization of appropriations

There are authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary of Agriculture, from amounts in the Treasury other than amounts in the fund, such sums as may be necessary to carry out this section.

(Pub. L. 95–87, title IV, §406, Aug. 3, 1977, 91 Stat. 460; Pub. L. 97–98, title XV, §1551, Dec. 22, 1981, 95 Stat. 1344; Pub. L. 101–508, title VI, §§6008, 6012(c), (d)(3), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1388–295, 1388–298; Pub. L. 109–432, div. C, title II, §204, Dec. 20, 2006, 120 Stat. 3016.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2006—Subsec. (h). Pub. L. 109–432, §204(a), substituted "Natural Resources Conservation Service" for "Soil Conservation Service".

Subsec. (i). Pub. L. 109–432, §204(b), added subsec. (i).

1990—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 101–508, §6012(d)(3), which directed the substitution of "(including owners" for "including owners" was executed the first time that phrase appeared to reflect the probable intent of Congress, because the parenthetical statement concluding with "water rights)" was enacted without an opening parenthesis.

Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 101–508, §6008, struck out "experimental" before "reclamation treatment projects" in last sentence.

Subsec. (i). Pub. L. 101–508, §6012(c), repealed subsec. (i) which read as follows: "Funds shall be made available to the Secretary of Agriculture for the purposes of this section, as provided in section 1231 of this title."

1981—Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 97–98 inserted provisions that notwithstanding any other provision of this section with regard to acreage limitations, the Secretary may carry out experimental reclamation treatment projects to control erosion and improve water quality on all lands within a hydrologic unit, consisting of not more than 25,000 acres, if the Secretary determines that treatment of such lands as a hydrologic unit will achieve greater reduction in the adverse effects of past surface mining practices than would be achieved if reclamation was done on individual parcels of land.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 1990 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 101–508 effective Oct. 1, 1991, see section 6014 of Pub. L. 101–508 set out as a note under section 1231 of this title.

Effective Date of 1981 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 97–98 effective Dec. 22, 1981, see section 1801 of Pub. L. 97–98, set out as an Effective Date note under section 4301 of Title 7, Agriculture.
30 U.S.C. § 611 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 15: SURFACE RESOURCES / Subchapter II: MINING LOCATIONS / Section 611: Common varieties of sand, stone, gravel, pumice, pumicite, or cinders, and petrified wood
Common varieties of sand, stone, gravel, pumice, pumicite, or cinders, and petrified wood
Status: in_force

No deposit of common varieties of sand, stone, gravel, pumice, pumicite, or cinders and no deposit of petrified wood shall be deemed a valuable mineral deposit within the meaning of the mining laws of the United States so as to give effective validity to any mining claim hereafter located under such mining laws: Provided, however, That nothing herein shall affect the validity of any mining location based upon discovery of some other mineral occurring in or in association with such a deposit. "Common varieties" as used in this subchapter and sections 601 and 603 of this title does not include deposits of such materials which are valuable because the deposit has some property giving it distinct and special value and does not include so-called "block pumice" which occurs in nature in pieces having one dimension of two inches or more. "Petrified wood" as used in this subchapter and sections 601 and 603 of this title means agatized, opalized, petrified, or silicified wood, or any material formed by the replacement of wood by silica or other matter.

(July 23, 1955, ch. 375, §3, 69 Stat. 368; Pub. L. 87–713, §1, Sept. 28, 1962, 76 Stat. 652.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

1962—Pub. L. 87–713 defined "petrified wood", and provided that no deposit of petrified wood shall be deemed a valuable mineral deposit within the mining laws of the United States.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Regulations for Removal of Limited Quantities of Petrified Wood

Pub. L. 87–713, §2, Sept. 28, 1962, 76 Stat. 652, provided that: "The Secretary of the Interior shall provide by regulation that limited quantities of petrified wood may be removed without charge from those public lands which he shall specify."
30 U.S.C. § 1416 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 26: DEEP SEABED HARD MINERAL RESOURCES / Subchapter I: REGULATION OF EXPLORATION AND COMMERCIAL RECOVERY BY UNITED STATES CITIZENS / Section 1416: Denial of certification of applications and of issuance, transfer, suspension, and revocation of licenses and permits; suspension and modification of activities
Denial of certification of applications and of issuance, transfer, suspension, and revocation of licenses and permits; suspension and modification of activities
Status: in_force

(a) Denial, suspension, modification, and revocation

(1) The Administrator may deny certification of an application for the issuance or transfer of, and may deny the issuance or transfer of, a license for exploration or permit for commercial recovery if the Administrator finds that the applicant, or the activities proposed to be undertaken by the applicant, do not meet the requirements set forth in section 1413(c) of this title, section 1415(a) of this title, or in any other provision of this chapter, or any regulation issued under this chapter, for the issuance or transfer of a license or permit.

(2) The Administrator may—

(A) in addition to, or in lieu of, the imposition of any civil penalty under section 1462(a) of this title, or in addition to the imposition of any fine under section 1463 of this title, suspend or revoke any license or permit issued under this chapter, or suspend or modify any particular activities under such a license or permit, if the licensee or permittee, as the case may be, substantially fails to comply with any provision of this chapter, any regulation issued under this chapter, or any term, condition, or restriction of the license or permit; and

(B) suspend or modify particular activities under any license or permit, if the President determines that such suspension or modification is necessary (i) to avoid any conflict with any international obligation of the United States established by any treaty or convention in force with respect to the United States, or (ii) to avoid any situation which may reasonably be expected to lead to a breach of international peace and security involving armed conflict.

(3) No action may be taken by the Administrator to deny issuance or transfer of or to revoke any license or permit or, except as provided in subsection (c), to suspend any license or permit or suspend or modify particular activities under a license or permit, unless the Administrator—

(A) publishes in the Federal Register and gives the applicant, licensee, or permittee, as the case may be, written notice of the intention of the Administrator to deny the issuance or transfer of or to suspend, modify, or revoke the license or permit and the reason therefor; and

(B) if the reason for the proposed denial, suspension, modification, or revocation is a deficiency which the applicant, licensee, or permittee can correct, affords the applicant, licensee, or permittee a reasonable time, but not more than 180 days from the date of the notice or such longer period as the Administrator may establish for good cause shown, to correct such deficiency.

(4) The Administrator shall deny issuance or transfer of, or suspend or revoke, any license or permit or order the suspension or modification of particular activities under a license or permit—

(A) on the thirtieth day after the date of the notice given to the applicant, licensee, or permittee under paragraph (3)(A) unless before such day the applicant, licensee, or permittee requests a review of the proposed denial, suspension, modification, or revocation; or

(B) on the last day of the period established under paragraph (3)(B) in which the applicant, licensee, or permittee must correct a deficiency, if such correction has not been made before such day.

(b) Administrative review of proposed denial, suspension, modification, or revocation

Any applicant, licensee, or permittee, as the case may be, who makes a timely request under subsection (a) for review of a denial of issuance or transfer, or a suspension or revocation, of a license for exploration or permit for commercial recovery, or a suspension or modification of particular activities under such a license or permit, is entitled to an adjudication on the record after an opportunity for an agency hearing with respect to such denial or suspension, revocation, or modification.

(c) Effect on activities; emergency orders

The issuance of any notice of proposed suspension or revocation of a license for exploration or permit for commercial recovery or proposed suspension or modification of particular activities under such a license or permit shall not affect the continuation of exploration or commercial recovery activities by the licensee or permittee. The provisions of paragraphs (3) and (4) of subsection (a) and the first sentence of this subsection shall not apply when the President determines by Executive order that an immediate suspension of a license for exploration or permit for commercial recovery, or immediate suspension or modification of particular activities under such a license or permit, is necessary for the reasons set forth in subsection (a)(2)(B), or the Administrator determines that an immediate suspension of such a license or permit, or immediate suspension or modification of particular activities under such a license or permit, is necessary to prevent a significant adverse effect on the environment or to preserve the safety of life and property at sea, and the Administrator issues an emergency order requiring such immediate suspension.

(d) Judicial review

Any determination of the Administrator, after any appropriate administrative review under subsection (b), to certify or deny certification of an application for the issuance or transfer of, or to issue, deny issuance of, transfer, deny the transfer of, modify, renew, suspend, or revoke any license for exploration or permit for commercial recovery, or suspend or modify particular activities under such a license or permit, or any immediate suspension of such a license or permit, or immediate suspension or modification of particular activities under such a license or permit, pursuant to subsection (c), is subject to judicial review as provided in chapter 7 of title 5.

(Pub. L. 96–283, title I, §106, June 28, 1980, 94 Stat. 565.)
30 U.S.C. § 202 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 3A: LEASES AND PROSPECTING PERMITS / Subchapter II: COAL / Section 202: Common carriers; limitations of lease or permit
Common carriers; limitations of lease or permit
Status: in_force

No company or corporation operating a common-carrier railroad shall be given or hold a permit or lease under the provisions of this chapter for any coal deposits except for its own use for railroad purposes; and such limitations of use shall be expressed in all permits and leases issued to such companies or corporations; and no such company or corporation shall receive or hold under permit or lease more than ten thousand two hundred and forty acres in the aggregate nor more than one permit or lease for each two hundred miles of its railroad lines served or to be served from such coal deposits exclusive of spurs or switches and exclusive of branch lines built to connect the leased coal with the railroad, and also exclusive of parts of the railroad operated mainly by power produced otherwise than by steam.

Nothing in this section and section 201 of this title shall preclude such a railroad of less than two hundred miles in length from securing one permit or lease thereunder but no railroad shall hold a permit or lease for lands in any State in which it does not operate main or branch lines.

(Feb. 25, 1920, ch. 85, §2(c), 41 Stat. 438; June 13, 1944, ch. 244, 58 Stat. 275; June 3, 1948, ch. 379, §1, 62 Stat. 289.)

Editorial Notes

Codification

Section is comprised of subsec. (c) of section 2 of act Feb. 25, 1920, as amended by section 1 of act June 3, 1948. Subsecs. (a) and (b) of section 2 of act Feb. 25, 1920, are classified to section 201 of this title. Subsec. (d) of said section 2, as added by Pub. L. 94–377, §5(b), Aug. 4, 1976, 90 Stat. 1086, is classified to section 202a of this title.

Amendments

1948—Act June 3, 1948, reenacted this section without change except to make it subsec. (c) of section 2 of act Feb. 25, 1920.

1944—Act June 13, 1944, inserted "more than ten thousand two hundred and forty acres in the aggregate nor" before "more than one permit", substituted "railroad lines served or to be served from such coal deposits" for "railroad line within the State in which such property is situated,", and prohibited a railroad from holding a permit or lease for lands in any State in which it did not operate main or branch lines.
30 U.S.C. § 6 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 1: UNITED STATES BUREAU OF MINES / Section 6: Personal interest of director and members of Bureau in mines
Personal interest of director and members of Bureau in mines
Status: in_force

In conducting inquiries and investigations authorized under sections 1, 3, and 5 to 7 of this title neither the director nor any member of the United States Bureau of Mines shall have any personal or private interest in any mine or the products of any mine under investigation, or shall accept employment from any private party for services in the examination of any mine or private mineral property, or issue any report as to the valuation or the management of any mine or other private mineral property. Nothing herein shall be construed as preventing the temporary employment by the United States Bureau of Mines, at a compensation not to exceed $10 per day, in a consulting capacity or in the investigation of special subjects, of any engineer or other expert whose principal professional practice is outside of such employment by said bureau.

(May 16, 1910, ch. 240, §4, 36 Stat. 370; Feb. 25, 1913, ch. 72, §4, 37 Stat. 682; Pub. L. 102–285, §10(b), May 18, 1992, 106 Stat. 172.)

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Change of Name

"United States Bureau of Mines" substituted in text for "Bureau of Mines" pursuant to section 10(b) of Pub. L. 102–285, set out as a note under section 1 of this title. For provisions relating to closure and transfer of functions of the United States Bureau of Mines, see Transfer of Functions note set out under section 1 of this title.
30 U.S.C. § 504 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 11: MINING CLAIMS ON LANDS SUBJECT TO MINERAL LEASING LAWS / Section 504: Power to make arrangements respecting atomic energy materials as unaffected
Power to make arrangements respecting atomic energy materials as unaffected
Status: in_force

Except as this chapter provides for (a) validation of certain mining claims located on lands described in section 501 of this title, and (b) the modification and amendment of certain withdrawals or reservations of land, nothing in this chapter shall affect any power or authority duly vested in the Atomic Energy Commission or any other agency, department or officer of the United States to make leases, withdrawals, reservations or other arrangements with respect to source materials as defined in section 5(b)(1) of the Atomic Energy Act of 1946, as amended.

(Aug. 12, 1953, ch. 405, §4, 67 Stat. 540.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

Section 5(b)(1) of the Atomic Energy Act of 1946, referred to in text, was formerly classified to section 1805(b)(1) of Title 42, The Public Health and Welfare, and defined "source material". Such term is defined in section 11(z) of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, as amended, which is classified to section 2014(z) of Title 42.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Transfer of Functions

Atomic Energy Commission abolished and functions transferred by sections 5814 and 5841 of Title 42, The Public Health and Welfare. See, also, Transfer of Functions notes set out under those sections.
30 U.S.C. § 541h (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 12A: ENTRY AND LOCATION ON COAL LANDS ON DISCOVERY OF SOURCE MATERIAL / Section 541h: Savings provision
Savings provision
Status: in_force

Nothing in this chapter shall be deemed to amend or repeal any provisions of chapter 12 of this title, or any right granted thereunder.

(Aug. 11, 1955, ch. 795, §9, 69 Stat. 681.)
30 U.S.C. § 1223 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 25: SURFACE MINING CONTROL AND RECLAMATION / Subchapter III: STATE MINING AND MINERAL RESOURCES RESEARCH INSTITUTES / Section 1223: Funding criteria
Funding criteria
Status: in_force

(a) Funds available to institutes under sections 1221 and 1222 of this title shall be paid at such times and in such amounts during each fiscal year as determined by the Secretary, and upon vouchers approved by him. Each institute shall—

(1) set forth its plan to provide for the training of individuals as mineral engineers and scientists under a curriculum appropriate to the field of mineral resources and mineral engineering and related fields;

(2) set forth policies and procedures which assure that Federal funds made available under this subchapter for any fiscal year will supplement and, to the extent practicable, increase the level of funds that would, in the absence of such Federal funds, be made available for purposes of this subchapter, and in no case supplant such funds; and

(3) have an officer appointed by its governing authority who shall receive and account for all funds paid under the provisions of this subchapter and shall make an annual report to the Secretary on or before the first day of September of each year, on work accomplished and the status of projects underway, together with a detailed statement of the amounts received under any provisions of this subchapter during the preceding fiscal year, and of its disbursements on schedules prescribed by the Secretary.

If any of the funds received by the authorized receiving officer of any institute under the provisions of this subchapter shall by any action or contingency be found by the Secretary to have been improperly diminished, lost, or misapplied, such funds shall be replaced by the State concerned and until so replaced no subsequent appropriation shall be allotted or paid to any institute of such State.

(b) The institutes are authorized and encouraged to plan and conduct programs under this subchapter in cooperation with each other and with such other agencies and individuals as may contribute to the solution of the mining and mineral resources problems involved. Moneys appropriated pursuant to this subchapter shall be available for paying the necessary expenses of planning, coordinating, and conducting such cooperative research.

(Pub. L. 98–409, §3, Aug. 29, 1984, 98 Stat. 1538.)

Editorial Notes

Codification

Section was enacted as part of the Mining and Mineral Resources Research Institute Act of 1984, and not as part of the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 which comprises this chapter.

Prior Provisions

A prior section 1223, Pub. L. 95–87, title III, §303, Aug. 3, 1977, 91 Stat. 453, contained provisions similar to this section covering fiscal years 1978 through 1984.
30 U.S.C. § 1713 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 29: OIL AND GAS ROYALTY MANAGEMENT / Subchapter I: FEDERAL ROYALTY MANAGEMENT AND ENFORCEMENT / Section 1713: Required recordkeeping
Required recordkeeping
Status: in_force

(a) Maintenance and availability of records, reports, and information for inspection and duplication

A lessee, operator, or other person directly involved in developing, producing, transporting, purchasing, or selling oil or gas subject to this chapter through the point of first sale or the point of royalty computation, whichever is later, shall establish and maintain any records, make any reports, and provide any information that the Secretary may, by rule, reasonably require for the purposes of implementing this chapter or determining compliance with rules or orders under this chapter. Upon the request of any officer or employee duly designated by the Secretary or any State or Indian tribe conducting an audit or investigation pursuant to this chapter, the appropriate records, reports, or information which may be required by this section shall be made available for inspection and duplication by such officer or employee, State, or Indian tribe.

(b) Length of time maintenance required

Records required by the Secretary with respect to oil and gas leases from Federal or Indian lands or the Outer Continental Shelf shall be maintained for 6 years after the records are generated unless the Secretary notifies the record holder that he has initiated an audit or investigation involving such records and that such records must be maintained for a longer period. In any case when an audit or investigation is underway, records shall be maintained until the Secretary releases the record holder of the obligation to maintain such records.

(Pub. L. 97–451, title I, §103, Jan. 12, 1983, 96 Stat. 2451.)
30 U.S.C. § 1007 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 23: GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES / Section 1007: Readjustment of lease terms and conditions
Readjustment of lease terms and conditions
Status: in_force

(a) Initial readjustment; periodic intervals; notice; objections, relinquishment, and termination

The Secretary may readjust the terms and conditions, except as otherwise provided herein, of any geothermal lease issued under this chapter at not less than ten-year intervals beginning ten years after the date the geothermal steam is produced, as determined by the Secretary. Each geothermal lease issued under this chapter shall provide for such readjustment. The Secretary shall give notice of any proposed readjustment of terms and conditions, and, unless the lessee files with the Secretary objection to the proposed terms or relinquishes the lease within thirty days after receipt of such notice, the lessee shall conclusively be deemed to have agreed with such terms and conditions. If the lessee files objections, and no agreement can be reached between the Secretary and the lessee within a period of not less than sixty days, the lease may be terminated by either party.

(b) Rentals and royalties; initial readjustment; periodic intervals; limitation on increases and on royalties; notice; objections, relinquishment, and termination

The Secretary may readjust the rentals and royalties of any geothermal lease issued under this chapter at not less than twenty-year intervals beginning thirty-five years after the date geothermal steam is produced, as determined by the Secretary. In the event of any such readjustment neither the rental nor royalty may be increased by more than 50 per centum over the rental or royalty paid during the preceding period. Each geothermal lease issue 1 under this chapter shall provide for such readjustment. The Secretary shall give notice of any proposed readjustment of rentals and royalties, and, unless the lessee files with the Secretary objection to the proposed rentals and royalties or relinquishes the lease within thirty days after receipt of such notice, the lessee shall conclusively be deemed to have agreed with such terms and conditions. If the lessee files objections, and no agreement can be reached between the Secretary and the lessee within a period of not less than sixty days, the lease may be terminated by either party.

(c) Surface use, protection, or restoration of lands withdrawn or acquired for Federal agency; notice; approval of agency

Any readjustment of the terms and conditions as to use, protection, or restoration of the surface of any lease of lands withdrawn or acquired in aid of a function of a Federal department or agency other than the Department of the Interior may be made only upon notice to, and with the approval of, such department or agency.

(Pub. L. 91–581, §8, Dec. 24, 1970, 84 Stat. 1569; Pub. L. 109–58, title II, §§229, 236(8), Aug. 8, 2005, 119 Stat. 668, 672.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2005—Pub. L. 109–58, §236(8), inserted section catchline.

Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 109–58, §229, substituted "period" for "period, and in no event shall the royalty payable exceed 22½ per centum" in second sentence.

1 So in original. Probably should be "issued".
30 U.S.C. § 181 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 3A: LEASES AND PROSPECTING PERMITS / Subchapter I: GENERAL PROVISIONS / Section 181: Lands subject to disposition; persons entitled to benefits; reciprocal privileges; helium rights reserved
Lands subject to disposition; persons entitled to benefits; reciprocal privileges; helium rights reserved
Status: in_force

Deposits of coal, phosphate, sodium, potassium, oil, oil shale, gilsonite (including all vein-type solid hydrocarbons), or gas, and lands containing such deposits owned by the United States, including those in national forests, but excluding lands acquired under the Appalachian Forest Act, approved March 1, 1911 (36 Stat. 961), and those in incorporated cities, towns, and villages and in national parks and monuments, those acquired under other Acts subsequent to February 25, 1920, and lands within the naval petroleum and oil-shale reserves, except as hereinafter provided, shall be subject to disposition in the form and manner provided by this chapter to citizens of the United States, or to associations of such citizens, or to any corporation organized under the laws of the United States, or of any State or Territory thereof, or in the case of coal, oil, oil shale, or gas, to municipalities. Citizens of another country, the laws, customs, or regulations of which deny similar or like privileges to citizens or corporations of this country, shall not by stock ownership, stock holding, or stock control, own any interest in any lease acquired under the provisions of this chapter.

The term "oil" shall embrace all nongaseous hydrocarbon substances other than those substances leasable as coal, oil shale, or gilsonite (including all vein-type solid hydrocarbons).

The term "combined hydrocarbon lease" shall refer to a lease issued in a special tar sand area pursuant to section 226 of this title after November 16, 1981.

The term "special tar sand area" means (1) an area designated by the Secretary of the Interior's orders of November 20, 1980 (45 FR 76800–76801) and January 21, 1981 (46 FR 6077–6078) as containing substantial deposits of tar sand.

The United States reserves the ownership of and the right to extract helium from all gas produced from lands leased or otherwise granted under the provisions of this chapter, under such rules and regulations as shall be prescribed by the Secretary of the Interior: Provided further, That in the extraction of helium from gas produced from such lands it shall be so extracted as to cause no substantial delay in the delivery of gas produced from the well to the purchaser thereof, and that extraction of helium from gas produced from such lands shall maintain the lease as if the extracted helium were oil and gas.

(Feb. 25, 1920, ch. 85, §1, 41 Stat. 437; Feb. 7, 1927, ch. 66, §5, 44 Stat. 1058; Aug. 8, 1946, ch. 916, §1, 60 Stat. 950; Pub. L. 86–705, §7(a), Sept. 2, 1960, 74 Stat. 790; Pub. L. 97–78, §1(1), (4), Nov. 16, 1981, 95 Stat. 1070; Pub. L. 116–9, title I, §1109, Mar. 12, 2019, 133 Stat. 610.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The Appalachian Forest Act, referred to in the first undesignated paragraph, is act Mar. 1, 1911, ch. 186, 36 Stat. 961, also popularly known as the Weeks Law, which enacted former sections 513 and 514 and sections 515 to 519, 521, 552, and 563 of Title 16, Conservation, and amended sections 480 and 500 of Title 16. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 552 of Title 16 and Tables.

Amendments

2019—Pub. L. 116–9 inserted ", and that extraction of helium from gas produced from such lands shall maintain the lease as if the extracted helium were oil and gas" after "purchaser thereof" in last par.

1981—Pub. L. 97–78, in first par., substituted "gilsonite (including all vein-type solid hydrocarbons)," for "native asphalt, solid and semisolid bitumen, and bituminous rock (including oil-impregnated rock or sands from which oil is recoverable only by special treatment after the deposit is mined or quarried)", and added, after first par. three paragraphs which defined "oil", "combined hydrocarbon lease", and "special tar sand area", respectively.

1960—Pub. L. 86–705 included deposits of native asphalt, solid and semisolid bitumen, and bituminous rock.

1946—Act Aug. 8, 1946, reenacted: existing par., less three provisos, as first sentence of first par., inserting "potassium" after "sodium", which was also included in the 1927 amendment, and substituting provision for disposition of deposits "in incorporated cities, towns, and villages, and in national parks and monuments, those acquired under other Acts subsequent to February 25, 1920, and lands within the naval petroleum and oil-shale reserves" for such disposition "in national parks, and in lands withdrawn or reserved for military or naval uses or purposes" and phrase "associations of such citizens" for "any association of such persons"; former third proviso as second sentence of first par.; former first proviso, as second par., inserting reservation of ownership provision and striking out "permitted" before "leased or otherwise granted"; and former second proviso as proviso in second par.

1927—Act Feb. 7, 1927, included deposits of potassium.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Short Title of 2000 Amendments

Pub. L. 106–463, §1, Nov. 7, 2000, 114 Stat. 2010, provided that: "This Act [amending section 184 of this title and enacting provisions set out as a note under section 184 of this title] may be cited as the 'Coal Market Competition Act of 2000'."

Pub. L. 106–393, title V, §501, Oct. 30, 2000, 114 Stat. 1624, provided that: "This title [amending section 191 of this title and enacting provisions set out as a note under section 191 of this title] may be cited as the 'Mineral Revenue Payments Clarification Act of 2000'."

Short Title of 1987 Amendment

Pub. L. 100–203, title V, §5101(a), Dec. 22, 1987, 101 Stat. 1330–256, provided that: "This subtitle [subtitle B (§§5101–5113) of Pub. L. 100–203, enacting sections 195 and 226–3 of this title, amending sections 187a, 187b, 188, 191, and 226 of this title and section 3148 of Title 16, Conservation, and enacting provisions set out as notes under this section and section 226 of this title] may be cited as the 'Federal Onshore Oil and Gas Leasing Reform Act of 1987'."

Short Title of 1981 Amendment

Pub. L. 97–78, Nov. 16, 1981, 95 Stat. 1070, which amended this section and sections 182, 184, 209, 226, 241, 351, and 352 of this title and enacted provisions set out as a note under this section, is popularly known as the "Combined Hydrocarbon Leasing Act of 1981".

Short Title of 1976 Amendment

Pub. L. 94–377, §1(a), Aug. 4, 1976, 90 Stat. 1083, as amended by Pub. L. 95–554, §8, Oct. 30, 1978, 92 Stat. 2075, provided that: "This Act [enacting sections 202a, 208–1, and 208–2 of this title, amending sections 184, 191, 201, 203, 207, 209, and 352 of this title, repealing sections 201–1 and 204 of this title, and enacting provisions set out as notes under sections 184, 201, 201–1, 203, and 204 of this title] may be cited as the 'Federal Coal Leasing Amendments Act of 1976'."

Short Title of 1960 Amendment

Pub. L. 86–705, §1, Sept. 2, 1960, 74 Stat. 781, provided: "That this Act [amending this section and sections 182, 184, 187a, 226, 226–1, 226–2, and 241 of this title, and enacted provisions set out as notes under sections 187a and 226 of this title] may be cited as the 'Mineral Leasing Act Revision of 1960'."

Short Title

Act Feb. 25, 1920, ch. 85, §44, as added Dec. 22, 1987, Pub. L. 100–203, title V, §5113, 101 Stat. 1330–263, provided that: "This Act [enacting this chapter] may be cited as the 'Mineral Leasing Act'."

This chapter is also popularly known as the "Mineral Leasing Act of 1920" and the "Mineral Lands Leasing Act".

Savings Provision

Provisions of Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976, Pub. L. 94–579, Oct. 21, 1976, 90 Stat. 2743, not to be construed as permitting any person to place, or allow to be placed, spent oil shale, etc., on any Federal land other than land leased for the recovery of shale oil under the act of Feb. 25, 1920, section 181 et seq. of this title, see section 701(d) of Pub. L. 94–579, set out as a note under section 1701 of Title 43, Public Lands.

Act Aug. 8, 1946, ch. 916, §15, 60 Stat. 950, provided: "No repeal or amendment made by this Act [enacting sections 187a, 187b, 226c–226e, and 236b, amending this section and sections 184, 188, 193, 209, 225, 226, and 285, and repealing sections 223a, 226a, and 226b of this title] shall affect any right acquired under the law as it existed prior to such repeal or amendment, and such right shall be governed by the law in effect at the time of its acquisition; but any person holding a lease on the effective date of this Act [Aug. 8, 1946] may, by filing a statement to that effect, elect to have his lease governed by the applicable provisions of this Act instead of by the law in effect prior thereto."

Construction and Applicability of 1981 Amendments

Pub. L. 97–78, §1(10), (11), Nov. 16, 1981, 95 Stat. 1072, provided that:

"(10) Nothing in this Act [see Short Title of 1981 Amendment note above] shall affect the taxable status of production from tar sand under the Crude Oil Windfall Profit Tax Act of 1980 (Public Law 96–223) [see Tables for classification], reduce the depletion allowance for production from tar sand, or otherwise affect the existing tax status applicable to such production.

"(11) No provision of this Act [see Short Title of 1981 Amendment note above] shall apply to national parks, national monuments, or other lands where mineral leasing is prohibited by law. The Secretary of the Interior shall apply the provisions of this Act to the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, and to any other units of the national park system where mineral leasing is permitted, in accordance with any applicable minerals management plan if the Secretary finds that there will be no resulting significant adverse impacts on the administration of such area, or on other contiguous units of the national park system."

Outer Continental Shelf; Mineral Leases

Grant by the Secretary of the Interior of mineral leases on submerged lands of outer Continental Shelf, see section 1331 et seq., of Title 43, Public Lands.

Selection of Lands by Alaska

Selection of lands by Alaska from lands made available by Statehood provisions including lands subject to leases, permits, licenses or contracts issued under this chapter, see section 6(h) of Pub. L. 85–508, set out as note preceding section 21 of Title 48.

Executive Documents

Admission of Alaska as State: Selection of Lands

Admission of Alaska into the Union was accomplished Jan. 3, 1959, on issuance of Proc. No. 3269, Jan. 3, 1959, 24 F.R. 81, 73 Stat. c16, as required by sections 1 and 8(c) of Pub. L. 85–508, July 7, 1958, 72 Stat. 339, set out as notes preceding section 21 of Title 48, Territories and Insular Possessions.
30 U.S.C. § 527 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 12: MULTIPLE MINERAL DEVELOPMENT OF THE SAME TRACTS / Section 527: Determination of unpatented mining claims
Determination of unpatented mining claims
Status: in_force

(a) Filing of notice

Any applicant, offeror, permittee, or lessee under the mineral leasing laws may file in the office of the Secretary of the Interior, or in such office as the Secretary may designate, a request for publication of notice of such application, offer, permit, or lease, provided expressly, that not less than ninety days prior to the filing of such request for publication there shall have been filed for record in the county office of record for the county in which the lands covered thereby are situate a notice of the filing of such application or offer or of the issuance of such permit or lease which notice shall set forth the date of such filing or issuance, the name and address of the applicant, offeror, permittee or lessee and the description of the lands covered by such application, offer, permit or lease, showing the section or sections of the public land surveys which embrace the lands covered by such application, offer, permit, or lease, or if such lands are unsurveyed, either the section or sections which would probably embrace such lands when the public lands surveys are extended to such lands or a tie by courses and distances to an approved United States mineral monument.

The filing of such request for publication shall be accompanied by a certified copy of such recorded notice and an affidavit or affidavits of a person or persons over twenty-one years of age setting forth that the affiant or affiants have examined the lands involved in a reasonable effort to ascertain whether any person or persons were in actual possession of or engaged in the working of such lands or any part thereof, and, if no person or persons were found to be in actual possession of or engaged in the working of said lands or any part thereof on the date of such examination, setting forth such fact, or, if any person or persons were so found to be in actual possession or engaged in such working on the date of such examination, setting forth the name and address of each such person, unless affiant shall have been unable through reasonable inquiry to obtain information as to the name and address of any such person, in which event the affidavit shall set forth fully the nature and results of such inquiry.

The filing of such request for publication shall also be accompanied by the certificate of a title or abstract company, or of a title abstractor, or of an attorney, based upon such company's, abstractor's, or attorney's examination of the instruments affecting the lands involved, of record in the public records of the county in which said lands are situate as shown by the indices of the public records in the county office of record for said county, setting forth the name of any person disclosed by said instruments to have an interest in said lands under any unpatented mining claim heretofore located, together with the address of such person if disclosed by such instruments of record.

Thereupon the Secretary of the Interior, or his designated representative, at the expense of the requesting person (who, prior to the commencement of publication, must furnish the agreement of the publisher to hold such requesting person alone responsible for charges of publication), shall cause notice of such application, offer, permit, or lease to be published in a newspaper having general circulation in the county in which the lands involved are situate.

Such notice shall describe the lands covered by such application, offer, permit, or lease, as provided heretofore in the notice to be filed in the office of record of the county in which the lands covered are situate, and shall notify whomever it may concern that if any person claiming or asserting under, or by virtue of, any unpatented mining claim heretofore located, any right or interest in Leasing Act minerals as to such lands or any part thereof, shall fail to file in the office where such request for publication was filed (which office shall be specified in such notice) and within one hundred fifty days from the date of the first publication of such notice (which date shall be specified in such notice), a verified statement which shall set forth, as to such unpatented mining claim:

(1) The date of location;

(2) The book and page of recordation of the notice or certificate of location;

(3) The section or sections of the public land surveys which embrace such mining claim; or if such lands are unsurveyed, either the section or sections which would probably embrace such mining claim when the public land surveys are extended to such lands or a tie by courses and distances to an approved United States mineral monument;

(4) Whether such claimant is a locator or purchaser under such location; and

(5) The name and address of such claimant and names and addresses so far as known to the claimant of any other person or persons claiming any interest or interests in or under such unpatented mining claim;

such failure shall be conclusively deemed (i) to constitute a waiver and relinquishment by such mining claimant of any and all right, title, and interest under such mining claim as to, but only as to, Leasing Act minerals, and (ii) to constitute a consent by such mining claimant that such mining claim and any patent issued therefor, shall be subject to the reservation specified in section 524 of this title, and (iii) to preclude thereafter any assertion by such mining claimant of any right or title to or interest in any Leasing Act mineral by reason of such mining claim.

If such notice is published in a daily paper, it shall be published in the Wednesday issue for nine consecutive weeks, or, if in a weekly paper, in nine consecutive issues, or, if in a semiweekly or triweekly paper, in the issue of the same day of each week for nine consecutive weeks.

Within fifteen days after the date of first publication of such notice, the person requesting such publication (1) shall cause a copy of such notice to be personally delivered to or to be mailed by registered mail or by certified mail addressed to each person in possession or engaged in the working of the land whose name and address is shown by an affidavit filed as aforesaid, and to each person who may have filed, as to any lands described in said notice, a request for notices, as provided in subsection (d) of this section, and shall cause a copy of such notice to be mailed by registered mail or by certified mail to each person whose name and address is set forth in the title or abstract company's or title abstractor's or attorney's certificate filed as aforesaid, as having an interest in the lands described in said notice under any unpatented mining claim heretofore located, such notice to be directed to such person's address as set forth in such certificate; and (2) shall file in the office where said request for publication was filed an affidavit showing that copies have been so delivered or mailed.

(b) Failure to file verified statement

If any claimant under any unpatented mining claim heretofore located which embraces any of the lands described in any notice published in accordance with the provisions of subsection (a) of this section shall fail to file a verified statement, as above provided, within one hundred and fifty days from the date of the first publication of such notice, such failure shall be conclusively deemed, except as otherwise provided in subsection (e) of this section, (i) to constitute a waiver and relinquishment by such mining claimant of any and all right, title, and interest under such mining claim as to, but only as to, Leasing Act minerals, and (ii) to constitute a consent by such mining claimant that such mining claim and any patent issued therefor, shall be subject to the reservation specified in section 524 of this title, and (iii) to preclude thereafter any assertion by such mining claimant of any right or title to or interest in any Leasing Act mineral by reason of such mining claim.

(c) Hearings

If any verified statement shall be filed by a mining claimant as provided in subsection (a) of this section, then the Secretary of the Interior or his designated representative shall fix a time and place for a hearing to determine the validity and effectiveness of the mining claimant's asserted right or interest in Leasing Act minerals, which place of hearing shall be in the county where the lands in question or parts thereof are located, unless the mining claimant agrees otherwise. The procedures with respect to notice of such a hearing and the conduct thereof, and in respect to appeals shall follow the then established general procedures and rules of practice of the Department of the Interior in respect to contests or protests affecting public lands of the United States. If, pursuant to such a hearing the final decision rendered in the matter shall affirm the validity and effectiveness of any mining claimant's right or interest under the mining claim as to Leasing Act minerals, then no subsequent proceedings under this section shall have any force or effect upon the so-affirmed right or interest of such mining claimant under such mining claim. If at any time prior to a hearing the person requesting publication of notice and any person filing a verified statement pursuant to such notice shall so stipulate, then to the extent so stipulated, but only to such extent, no hearing shall be held with respect to rights asserted under that verified statement, and to the extent defined by the stipulation the rights asserted under that verified statement shall be deemed to be unaffected by that particular published notice.

(d) Request for copy of notice

Any person claiming any right in Leasing Act minerals under or by virtue of any unpatented mining claim heretofore located and desiring to receive a copy of any notice of any application, offer, permit, or lease which may be published as above provided in subsection (a) of this section, and which may affect lands embraced in such mining claim, may cause to be filed for record in the county office of record where the notice or certificate of location of such mining claim shall have been recorded, a duly acknowledged request for a copy of any such notice. Such request for copies shall set forth the name and address of the person requesting copies and shall also set forth, as to each mining claim under which such person asserts rights in Leasing Act minerals:

(1) the date of location;

(2) the book and page of the recordation of the notice or certificate of location; and

(3) the section or sections of the public land surveys which embrace such mining claim; or if such lands are unsurveyed, either the section or sections which would probably embrace such mining claim when the public land surveys are extended to such lands or a tie by courses and distances to an approved United States mineral monument.

Other than in respect to the requirements of subsection (a) of this section as to personal delivery or mailing of copies of notices and in respect to the provisions of subsection (e) of this section, no such request for copies of published notices and no statement or allegation in such request and no recordation thereof shall affect title to any mining claim or to any land or be deemed to constitute constructive notice to any person that the person requesting copies has, or claims, any right, title, or interest in or under any mining claim referred to in such request.

(e) Failure to deliver or mail copy of notice

If any applicant, offeror, permittee, or lessee shall fail to comply with the requirements of subsection (a) of this section as to the personal delivery or mailing of a copy of notice to any person, the publication of such notice shall be deemed wholly ineffectual as to that person or as to the rights asserted by that person and the failure of that person to file a verified statement, as provided in such notice, shall in no manner affect, diminish, prejudice or bar any rights of that person.

(Aug. 13, 1954, ch. 730, §7, 68 Stat. 711; Pub. L. 86–507, §1(25), June 11, 1960, 74 Stat. 201.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

1960—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 86–507 inserted "or by certified mail" after "registered mail" in two places in last paragraph.
30 U.S.C. § 5 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 1: UNITED STATES BUREAU OF MINES / Section 5: Reports of investigations
Reports of investigations
Status: in_force

The Director of the United States Bureau of Mines shall prepare and publish, subject to the direction of the Secretary of the Interior, under the appropriations made from time to time by Congress, reports of inquiries and investigations, with appropriate recommendations of the bureau, concerning the nature, causes, and prevention of accidents, and the improvement of conditions, methods, and equipment, with special reference to health, safety, and prevention of waste in the mining, quarrying, metallurgical, and other mineral industries; the use of explosives and electricity, safety methods and appliances, and rescue and first-aid work in said industries; the causes and prevention of mine fires; and other subjects included under the provisions of sections 1, 3, and 5 to 7 of this title.

(May 16, 1910, ch. 240, §3, 36 Stat. 370; Feb. 25, 1913, ch. 72, §3, 37 Stat. 681; Ex. Ord. No. 4239, June 4, 1925; Ex. Ord. No. 6611, Feb. 22, 1934; Pub. L. 102–285, §10(b), May 18, 1992, 106 Stat. 172.)

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Change of Name

"United States Bureau of Mines" substituted in text for "Bureau of Mines" pursuant to section 10(b) of Pub. L. 102–285, set out as a note under section 1 of this title. For provisions relating to closure and transfer of functions of the United States Bureau of Mines, see Transfer of Functions note set out under section 1 of this title.
30 U.S.C. § 47 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 2: MINERAL LANDS AND REGULATIONS IN GENERAL / Section 47: Impairment of rights or interests in certain mining property
Impairment of rights or interests in certain mining property
Status: in_force

Nothing contained in sections 21, 22 to 24, 26 to 28, 29, 30, 33 to 48, 50 to 52, 71 to 76 of this title and section 661 of title 43 shall be construed to impair in any way, rights or interests in mining property acquired under laws in force prior to July 9, 1870; nor to affect the provisions of the act entitled "An act granting to A. Sutro the right-of-way and other privileges to aid in the construction of a draining and exploring tunnel to the Comstock lode, in the State of Nevada", approved July 25, 1866.

(R.S. §2344.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

Sections 21, 22 to 24, 26 to 28, 29, 30, 33 to 48, 50 to 52, 71 to 76 of this title and section 661 of title 43, referred to in text, were in the original "this chapter", meaning chapter 6 of title 32 of the Revised Statutes, consisting of R.S. §§2318 to 2352.

Codification

R.S. §2344 derived from acts July 9, 1870, ch. 235, §17, 16 Stat. 218; May 10, 1872, ch. 152, §16, 17 Stat. 96.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Submerged Lands Act

Provisions of this section as not amended, modified or repealed by the Submerged Lands Act, see section 1303 of Title 43, Public Lands.
30 U.S.C. § 614 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 15: SURFACE RESOURCES / Subchapter II: MINING LOCATIONS / Section 614: Waiver of rights
Waiver of rights
Status: in_force

The owner or owners of any unpatented mining claim heretofore located may waive and relinquish all rights thereunder which are contrary to or in conflict with the limitations or restrictions specified in section 612 of this title as to hereafter located unpatented mining claims. The execution and acknowledgment of such a waiver and relinquishment by such owner or owners and the recordation thereof in the office where the notice or certificate of location of such mining claim is of record shall render such mining claim thereafter and prior to issuance of patent subject to the limitations and restrictions in section 612 of this title in all respects as if said mining claim had been located after July 23, 1955, but no such waiver or relinquishment shall be deemed in any manner to constitute any concession as to the date of priority of rights under said mining claim or as to the validity thereof.

(July 23, 1955, ch. 375, §6, 69 Stat. 372.)
30 U.S.C. § 901 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 22: MINE SAFETY AND HEALTH / Subchapter IV: BLACK LUNG BENEFITS / Section 901: Congressional findings and declaration of purpose; short title
Congressional findings and declaration of purpose; short title
Status: in_force

(a) Congress finds and declares that there are a significant number of coal miners living today who are totally disabled due to pneumoconiosis arising out of employment in one or more of the Nation's coal mines; that there are a number of survivors of coal miners whose deaths were due to this disease; and that few States provide benefits for death or disability due to this disease to coal miners or their surviving dependents. It is, therefore, the purpose of this subchapter to provide benefits, in cooperation with the States, to coal miners who are totally disabled due to pneumoconiosis and to the surviving dependents of miners whose death was due to such disease; and to ensure that in the future adequate benefits are provided to coal miners and their dependents in the event of their death or total disability due to pneumoconiosis.

(b) This subchapter may be cited as the "Black Lung Benefits Act".

(Pub. L. 91–173, title IV, §401, Dec. 30, 1969, 83 Stat. 792; Pub. L. 92–303, §§3(a), 4(b)(2), May 19, 1972, 86 Stat. 153, 154; Pub. L. 95–239, §16, Mar. 1, 1978, 92 Stat. 105; Pub. L. 97–119, title II, §203(a)(4), Dec. 29, 1981, 95 Stat. 1644.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

1981—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 97–119 struck out "or who were totally disabled by this disease at the time of their deaths" after "due to this disease" and "due to such disease".

1978—Pub. L. 95–239 designated existing provisions as subsec. (a) and added subsec. (b).

1972—Pub. L. 92–303, §3(a), inserted "or who were totally disabled by this disease at the time of their deaths" after "disease" the first and third times it appeared and struck out "underground" before "coal mines".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 1981 Amendment

Pub. L. 97–119, title II, §206(a), Dec. 29, 1981, 95 Stat. 1645, provided that: "Except as otherwise provided, the provisions of this title [see Short Title of 1981 Amendment note set out under section 801 of this title] shall take effect on January 1, 1982."

Effective Date of 1978 Amendment

Pub. L. 95–239, §20(a), Mar. 1, 1978, 92 Stat. 106, provided that: "The provisions of this Act [see Short Title of 1978 Amendment note set out under section 801 of this title] shall take effect on the date of enactment of this Act [Mar. 1, 1978]."

Effective Date of 1972 Amendment

Pub. L. 92–303, §3(c), May 19, 1972, 86 Stat. 153, provided that: "The amendments made by this section [amending this section and sections 902, 921, 932, and 933 of this title] shall be effective as of December 30, 1969."

Amendment by section 4(b)(2) of Pub. L. 92–303 effective Dec. 30, 1969, see section 4(g) of Pub. L. 92–303, set out as a note under section 921 of this title.

Effective Date

Subchapter effective Dec. 30, 1969, see section 509 of Pub. L. 91–173, set out as a note under section 801 of this title.

Separability

Pub. L. 97–119, title II, §206(b), Dec. 29, 1981, 95 Stat. 1645, provided that: "If any provision of this title [see Short Title of 1981 Amendment note, set out under section 801 of this title], or the application of such provision to any person or circumstance, shall be held invalid, the remainder of this title, or the application of such provision to persons or circumstances other than those to which it is held invalid, shall not be affected thereby."

Special Benefits for Disabled Coal Miners

Pub. L. 102–394, title II, Oct. 6, 1992, 106 Stat. 1806, provided that: "For carrying out title IV of the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act of 1977 [30 U.S.C. 901 et seq.], including for fiscal year 1993 and thereafter the payment of travel expenses on an actual cost or commuted basis, to an individual, for travel incident to medical examinations, and when travel of more than 75 miles is required, to parties, their representatives, and all reasonably necessary witnesses for travel within the United States, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, to reconsideration interviews and to proceedings before administrative law judges, $601,313,000, to remain available until expended: Provided, That monthly benefit payments for fiscal year 1993 and thereafter shall be paid consistent with section 215(g) of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C. 415(g)]."

Study of Current Medical Methods for Diagnosis of Pneumoconiosis and Nature and Extent of Impairment Attributable to Simple and Complicated Pneumoconiosis; Report to Congress

Pub. L. 97–119, title II, §202(e), Dec. 29, 1981, 95 Stat. 1643, directed Secretary of Labor, in consultation with Secretary of Health and Human Services, to undertake a study of current medical methods for diagnosis of pneumoconiosis, and of nature and extent of impairment and disability that are attributable to the existence of both simple and complicated pneumoconiosis, with study, together with appropriate recommendations, to be transmitted to Congress no later than eighteen months after Jan. 1, 1982.

Study of Benefits Under This Subchapter, Other Benefits Received, and Benefits if State Workers' Compensation Programs Applicable; Report to Congress

Pub. L. 97–119, title II, §203(c), Dec. 29, 1981, 95 Stat. 1644, directed Secretary of Labor to undertake a study of the benefits provided by this subchapter, other benefits received by individuals who receive benefits under this subchapter, and benefits which would be received were State workers' compensation programs applicable in lieu of benefits under this subchapter, with study, together with appropriate recommendations, to be transmitted to Congress no later than eighteen months after Jan. 1, 1982.
30 U.S.C. § 28e (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 2: MINERAL LANDS AND REGULATIONS IN GENERAL / Section 28e: Recordation of deferment
Recordation of deferment
Status: in_force

Claimant shall file or record or cause to be filed or recorded in the office where the notice or certificate of location of such claim or group of claims is filed or recorded, a notice to the public of claimant's petition to the Secretary of the Interior for deferment under sections 28b to 28e of this title, and of the order or decision disposing of such petition.

(June 21, 1949, ch. 232, §4, 63 Stat. 215.)
30 U.S.C. § 1230 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 25: SURFACE MINING CONTROL AND RECLAMATION / Subchapter III: STATE MINING AND MINERAL RESOURCES RESEARCH INSTITUTES / Section 1230: Eligibility criteria
Eligibility criteria
Status: in_force

(a) The Committee shall determine the eligibility of a college or university to participate as a mining and mineral resources research institute under this subchapter using criteria which include—

(1) the presence of a substantial program of graduate instruction and research in mining or mineral extraction or closely related fields which has a demonstrated history of achievement;

(2) evidence of institutional commitment for the purposes of this subchapter;

(3) evidence that such institution has or can obtain significant industrial cooperation in activities within the scope of this subchapter; and

(4) the presence of an engineering program in mining or minerals extraction that is accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, or evidence of equivalent institutional capability as determined by the Committee.

(b)(1) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (a), those colleges or universities which, on October 12, 1988, have a mining or mineral resources research institute program which has been found to be eligible pursuant to this subchapter shall continue to be eligible subject to review at least once during the period authorized by the Mining and Mineral Resources Research Institute Amendments of 1988, under the provisions of subsection (a). The results of such review shall be submitted by January 15, 1992, pursuant to section 11(a)(2) of the Mining and Mineral Resources Research Institute Amendments of 1988.

(2) Generic mineral technology centers established by the Secretary under this subchapter are to be composed of institutes eligible pursuant to subsection (a). Existing generic mineral technology centers shall continue to be eligible under this subchapter subject to at least one review prior to January 15, 1992, pursuant to section 11(a)(3) of the Mining and Mineral Resources Research Institute Amendments of 1988.

(Pub. L. 98–409, §10, Aug. 29, 1984, 98 Stat. 1541; Pub. L. 100–483, §10, Oct. 12, 1988, 102 Stat. 2340.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The Mining and Mineral Resources Research Institute Amendments of 1988, referred to in subsec. (b), is Pub. L. 100–483, Oct. 12, 1988, 102 Stat. 2339. Section 11(a)(2) and (3) of the Mining and Mineral Resources Research Institute Amendments of 1988 is set out as a note under section 1229 of this title. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title of 1988 Amendment note set out under section 1201 of this title and Tables.

Codification

Section was enacted as part of the Mining and Mineral Resources Research Institute Act of 1984, and not as part of the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 which comprises this chapter.

Amendments

1988—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 100–483 amended subsec. (b) generally. Prior to amendment, subsec. (b) read as follows: "Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (a) of this section, those colleges or universities which, on August 29, 1984, have a mining or mineral resources research institute program which has been found to be eligible pursuant to title III of the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 (91 Stat. 445) shall continue to be eligible pursuant to this subchapter for a period of four fiscal years beginning October 1, 1984."
30 U.S.C. § 172 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 3: LANDS CONTAINING COAL, OIL, GAS, SALTS, ASPHALTIC MATERIALS, SODIUM, SULPHUR, AND BUILDING STONE / Subchapter IX: DISPOSAL OF ALABAMA LANDS AS AGRICULTURAL LANDS / Section 172: Certain Alabama lands subject to homestead entry
Certain Alabama lands subject to homestead entry
Status: in_force

All lands designated as agricultural in the reclassification of the public lands of Alabama by the Secretary of the Interior under authority of Act March 27, 1906 (chapter 1347, section 1, Thirty-fourth Statutes, page 88), shall be subject to homestead entry as such.

(Mar. 27, 1906, ch. 1347, §2, 34 Stat. 88.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

Act March 27, 1906 (chapter 1347, section 1, Thirty-fourth Statutes, page 88), referred to in text, is not classified to the Code.
30 U.S.C. § 304 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 5: LEASE OF OIL AND GAS DEPOSITS IN OR UNDER RAILROADS AND OTHER RIGHTS-OF-WAY / Section 304: Provisions authorized in lease
Provisions authorized in lease
Status: in_force

Any lease granted by the Secretary of the Interior pursuant to this chapter may, in the discretion of said Secretary, contain a provision giving the lessee the right, with the approval of said Secretary, to shut down the operation of any well or wells the operation of which has become unprofitable, to resume operations when such resumption may result in profit, and to abandon any well or wells that cease to produce oil and/or gas in paying quantities.

(May 21, 1930, ch. 307, §4, 46 Stat. 374.)
30 U.S.C. § 1013 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 23: GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES / Section 1013: Surface land use
Surface land use
Status: in_force

Subject to the other provisions of this chapter, a lessee shall be entitled to use so much of the surface of the land covered by his geothermal lease as may be found by the Secretary to be necessary for the production, utilization, and conservation of geothermal resources.

(Pub. L. 91–581, §14, Dec. 24, 1970, 84 Stat. 1571; Pub. L. 109–58, title II, §236(14), Aug. 8, 2005, 119 Stat. 672.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2005—Pub. L. 109–58 inserted section catchline.
30 U.S.C. § 88 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 3: LANDS CONTAINING COAL, OIL, GAS, SALTS, ASPHALTIC MATERIALS, SODIUM, SULPHUR, AND BUILDING STONE / Subchapter II: COAL LAND ENTRIES UNDER NONMINERAL LAND LAWS WITH RESERVATION OF COAL TO UNITED STATES / Section 88: Disposition of coal by United States
Disposition of coal by United States
Status: in_force

If the coal-land laws have been or shall be extended over lands applied for, entered, or patented hereunder the coal deposits therein shall be subject to disposal by the United States in accordance with the provisions of the coal-land laws in force at the time of such disposal. Any person qualified to acquire coal deposits or the right to mine and remove the coal under the laws of the United States shall have the right at all times to enter upon the lands applied for, entered, or patented under sections 86 to 89 of this title, for the purpose of prospecting for coal thereon, if such coal deposits are then subject to disposition, upon the approval by the Secretary of the Interior of a bond or undertaking to be filed with him as security for the payment of all damages to the crops and improvements on such lands by reason of such prospecting. Any person who has acquired from the United States the coal deposits in any such lands, or the right to mine or remove the same, may reenter and occupy so much of the surface thereof as may be required for all purposes reasonably incident to the mining and removal of the coal therefrom, and mine and remove the coal, upon payment of the damages caused thereby to the owner thereof, or upon giving a good and sufficient bond or undertaking in an action instituted in any competent court to ascertain and fix said damages. The owner under such limited patent shall have the right to mine coal for personal use upon the land for domestic purposes at any time prior to the disposal by the United States of the coal deposits. Nothing herein contained shall be held to deny or abridge the right to present and have prompt consideration of applications made under the applicable land laws of the United States for any such surplus lands which have been or may be classified as coal lands with a view of disproving such classification and securing a patent without reservation.

(Feb. 27, 1917, ch. 133, §3, 39 Stat. 945.)
30 U.S.C. § 1419 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 26: DEEP SEABED HARD MINERAL RESOURCES / Subchapter I: REGULATION OF EXPLORATION AND COMMERCIAL RECOVERY BY UNITED STATES CITIZENS / Section 1419: Protection of the environment
Protection of the environment
Status: in_force

(a) Environmental assessment

(1) Deep ocean mining environmental study (DOMES)

The Administrator shall expand and accelerate the program assessing the effects on the environment from exploration and commercial recovery activities, including seabased processing and the disposal at sea of processing wastes, so as to provide an assessment, as accurate as practicable, of environmental impacts of such activities for the implementation of subsections (b), (c), and (d).

(2) Supporting ocean research

The Administrator also shall conduct a continuing program of ocean research to support environmental assessment activity through the period of exploration and commercial recovery authorized by this chapter. The program shall include the development, acceleration, and expansion, as appropriate, of studies of the ecological, geological, and physical aspects of the deep seabed in general areas of the ocean where exploration and commercial development under the authority of this chapter are likely to occur, including, but not limited to—

(A) natural diversity of the deep seabed biota;

(B) life histories of major benthic, midwater, and surface organisms most likely to be affected by commercial recovery activities;

(C) long- and short-term effects of commercial recovery on the deep seabed biota; and

(D) assessment of the effects of seabased processing activities.

Within 160 days after June 28, 1980, the Administrator shall prepare a plan to carry out the program described in this subsection, including necessary funding levels for the next five fiscal years, and shall submit the plan to the Congress.

(b) Terms, conditions, and restrictions

Each license and permit issued under this subchapter shall contain such terms, conditions, and restrictions, established by the Administrator, which prescribe the actions the licensee or permittee shall take in the conduct of exploration and commercial recovery activities to assure protection of the environment. The Administrator shall require in all activities under new permits, and wherever practicable in activities under existing permits, the use of the best available technologies for the protection of safety, health, and the environment wherever such activities would have a significant effect on safety, health, or the environment, except where the Administrator determines that the incremental benefits are clearly insufficient to justify the incremental costs of using such technologies. Before establishing such terms, conditions, and restrictions, the Administrator shall consult with the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, the Secretary of State, and the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating, concerning such terms, conditions, and restrictions, and the Administrator shall take into account and give due consideration to the information contained in each final environmental impact statement prepared with respect to such license or permit pursuant to subsection (d).

(c) Programmatic environmental impact statement

(1) If the Administrator, in consultation with the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency and with the assistance of other appropriate Federal agencies, determines that a programmatic environmental impact statement is required, the Administrator shall, as soon as practicable after June 28, 1980, with respect to the areas of the oceans in which any United States citizen is expected to undertake exploration and commercial recovery under the authority of this chapter—

(A) prepare and publish draft programmatic environmental impact statements which assess the environmental impacts of exploration and commercial recovery in such areas;

(B) afford all interested parties a reasonable time after such dates of publication to submit comments to the Administrator on such draft statements; and

(C) thereafter prepare (giving full consideration to all comments submitted under subparagraph (B)) and publish final programmatic environmental impact statements regarding such areas.

(2) With respect to the area of the oceans in which exploration and commercial recovery by any United States citizen will likely first occur under the authority of this chapter, the Administrator shall prepare a draft and final programmatic environmental impact statement as required under paragraph (1), except that—

(A) the draft programmatic environmental impact statement shall be prepared and published as soon as practicable but not later than 270 days (or such longer period as the Administrator may establish for good cause shown) after June 28, 1980; and

(B) the final programmatic environmental impact statement shall be prepared and published within 180 days (or such longer period as the Administrator may establish for good cause shown) after the date on which the draft statement is published.

(d) Environmental impact statements on issuance of licenses and permits

The issuance of, but not the certification of an application for, any license or permit under this subchapter shall be deemed to be a major Federal action significantly affecting the quality of the human environment for purposes of section 4332 of title 42. In preparing an environmental impact statement pursuant to this subsection, the Administrator shall consult with the agency heads referred to in subsection (b) and shall take into account, and give due consideration to, the relevant information contained in any applicable studies and any other environmental impact statement prepared pursuant to this section. Each draft environmental impact statement prepared pursuant to this subsection shall be published, with the terms, conditions, and restrictions proposed pursuant to section 1415(b) of this title, within 180 days (or such longer period as the Administrator may establish for good cause shown in writing) following the date on which the application for the license or permit concerned is certified by the Administrator. Each final environmental impact statement shall be published 180 days (or such longer period as the Administrator may establish for good cause shown in writing) following the date on which the draft environmental impact statement is published.

(e) Effect on other law

For the purposes of this chapter, any vessel or other floating craft engaged in commercial recovery or exploration shall not be deemed to be "a vessel or other floating craft" under section 502(12)(B) of the Clean Water Act [33 U.S.C. 1362(12)(B)] and any discharge of a pollutant from such vessel or other floating craft shall be subject to the Clean Water Act [33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq.].

(f) Stable reference areas

(1) Within one year after June 28, 1980, the Secretary of State shall, in cooperation with the Administrator and as part of the international consultations pursuant to section 1428(f) of this title, negotiate with all nations that are identified in such subsection for the purpose of establishing international stable reference areas in which no mining shall take place: Provided, however, That this subsection shall not be construed as requiring any substantial withdrawal of deep seabed areas from deep seabed mining authorized by this chapter.

(2) Nothing in this chapter shall be construed as authorizing the United States to unilaterally establish such reference area or areas nor shall the United States recognize the unilateral claim to such reference area or areas by any State.

(3) Within four years after June 28, 1980, the Secretary of State shall submit a report to Congress on the progress of establishing such stable reference areas, including the designation of appropriate zones to insure a representative and stable biota of the deep seabed.

(4) For purposes of this section "stable reference areas" shall mean an area or areas of the deep seabed to be used as a reference zone or zones for purposes of resource evaluation and environmental assessment of deep seabed mining in which no mining will occur.

(Pub. L. 96–283, title I, §109, June 28, 1980, 94 Stat. 568.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The Clean Water Act, referred to in subsec. (e), is act June 30, 1948, ch. 758, as amended generally by Pub. L. 92–500, §2, Oct. 18, 1972, 86 Stat. 816, also known as the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, which is classified generally to chapter 26 (§1251 et seq.) of Title 33, Navigation and Navigable Waters. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 1251 of Title 33 and Tables.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Transfer of Functions

For transfer of authorities, functions, personnel, and assets of the Coast Guard, including the authorities and functions of the Secretary of Transportation relating thereto, to the Department of Homeland Security, and for treatment of related references, see sections 468(b), 551(d), 552(d), and 557 of Title 6, Domestic Security, and the Department of Homeland Security Reorganization Plan of November 25, 2002, as modified, set out as a note under section 542 of Title 6.
30 U.S.C. § 2006 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 32: METHANE HYDRATE RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT / Section 2006: Authorization of appropriations
Authorization of appropriations
Status: in_force

There are authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this chapter, to remain available until expended—

(1) $15,000,000 for fiscal year 2006;

(2) $20,000,000 for fiscal year 2007;

(3) $30,000,000 for fiscal year 2008;

(4) $40,000,000 for fiscal year 2009; and

(5) $50,000,000 for fiscal year 2010.

(Pub. L. 106–193, §7, as added Pub. L. 109–58, title IX, §968(a), Aug. 8, 2005, 119 Stat. 898.)

Editorial Notes

Prior Provisions

A prior section 7 of Pub. L. 106–193 was set out in a note under section 1902 of this title prior to the general amendment of Pub. L. 106–193 by Pub. L. 109–58.
30 U.S.C. § 1723 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 29: OIL AND GAS ROYALTY MANAGEMENT / Subchapter I: FEDERAL ROYALTY MANAGEMENT AND ENFORCEMENT / Section 1723: Rewards
Rewards
Status: in_force

Where amounts representing royalty or other payments owed to the United States with respect to any oil and gas lease on Federal lands or the Outer Continental Shelf are recovered pursuant to any action taken by the Secretary under this chapter as a result of information provided to the Secretary by any person, the Secretary is authorized to pay to such person an amount equal to not more than 10 percent of such recovered amounts. The preceding sentence shall not apply to information provided by an officer or employee of the United States, an officer or employee of a State or Indian tribe acting pursuant to a cooperative agreement or delegation under this chapter, or any person acting pursuant to a contract authorized by this chapter.

(Pub. L. 97–451, title I, §113, Jan. 12, 1983, 96 Stat. 2456.)
30 U.S.C. § 187 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 3A: LEASES AND PROSPECTING PERMITS / Subchapter I: GENERAL PROVISIONS / Section 187: Assignment or subletting of leases; relinquishment of rights under leases; conditions in leases for protection of diverse interests in operation of mines, wells, etc.; State laws not impaired
Assignment or subletting of leases; relinquishment of rights under leases; conditions in leases for protection of diverse interests in operation of mines, wells, etc.; State laws not impaired
Status: in_force

No lease issued under the authority of this chapter shall be assigned or sublet, except with the consent of the Secretary of the Interior. The lessee may, in the discretion of the Secretary of the Interior, be permitted at any time to make written relinquishment of all rights under such a lease, and upon acceptance thereof be thereby relieved of all future obligations under said lease, and may with like consent surrender any legal subdivision of the area included within the lease. Each lease shall contain provisions for the purpose of insuring the exercise of reasonable diligence, skill, and care in the operation of said property; a provision that such rules for the safety and welfare of the miners and for the prevention of undue waste as may be prescribed by said Secretary shall be observed, including a restriction of the workday to not exceeding eight hours in any one day for underground workers except in cases of emergency; provisions prohibiting the employment of any child under the age of sixteen in any mine below the surface; provisions securing the workmen complete freedom of purchase; provision requiring the payment of wages at least twice a month in lawful money of the United States, and providing proper rules and regulations to insure the fair and just weighing or measurement of the coal mined by each miner, and such other provisions as he may deem necessary to insure the sale of the production of such leased lands to the United States and to the public at reasonable prices, for the protection of the interests of the United States, for the prevention of monopoly, and for the safeguarding of the public welfare. None of such provisions shall be in conflict with the laws of the State in which the leased property is situated.

(Feb. 25, 1920, ch. 85, §30, 41 Stat. 449; Pub. L. 95–554, §5, Oct. 30, 1978, 92 Stat. 2074.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

1978—Pub. L. 95–554 substituted "provisions prohibiting the employment of any child under the age of sixteen in any mine below the surface" for "provisions prohibiting the employment of any boy under the age of sixteen or the employment of any girl or woman, without regard to age, in any mine below the surface".
30 U.S.C. § 22 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 2: MINERAL LANDS AND REGULATIONS IN GENERAL / Section 22: Lands open to purchase by citizens
Lands open to purchase by citizens
Status: in_force

Except as otherwise provided, all valuable mineral deposits in lands belonging to the United States, both surveyed and unsurveyed, shall be free and open to exploration and purchase, and the lands in which they are found to occupation and purchase, by citizens of the United States and those who have declared their intention to become such, under regulations prescribed by law, and according to the local customs or rules of miners in the several mining districts, so far as the same are applicable and not inconsistent with the laws of the United States.

(R.S. §2319.)

Editorial Notes

Codification

R.S. §2319 derived from act May 10, 1872, ch. 152, §1, 17 Stat. 91.

Words "Except as otherwise provided," were editorially supplied on authority of act Feb. 25, 1920, ch. 85, 41 Stat. 437, popularly known as the Mineral Lands Leasing Act, which is classified to chapter 3A (§181 et seq.) of this title.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Short Title

Sections 22 to 24, 26 to 28, 29, 30, 33 to 35, 37, 39 to 43, and 47 of this title are based on sections of the Revised Statutes which are derived from act May 10, 1872, ch. 152, 17 Stat. 91, popularly known as the "General Mining Act of 1872" and as the "Mining Law of 1872".
30 U.S.C. § 556 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 13: CONTROL OF COAL-MINE FIRES / Section 556: Administration
Administration
Status: in_force

In carrying out the provisions of section 553 of this title the Secretary of the Interior is authorized—

(a) Employment of personnel

to secure, by contract or otherwise, and without regard to the civil service laws and chapter 51 and subchapter III of chapter 53 of title 5, for work of a temporary, intermittent, or emergency character, such personal services as may be deemed necessary for the efficient and economical performance of the work;

(b) Employment of equipment

to hire, with or without personal services, work animals and animal-drawn and motor-propelled vehicles and equipment, at rates to be approved by the Secretary of the Interior and without regard to the provisions of section 6101 of title 41;

(c) Contractual authority

to procure all or any part of the surveys, investigations, and control or extinguishment work by contracts with engineers, contractors, or firms or corporations thereof;

(d) Acquisition of lands, etc.

to acquire lands or rights and interests therein, including improvements, by purchase, lease, gift, exchange, condemnation, or otherwise, whenever necessary for the purposes of this chapter;

(e) Property restoration

to repair, restore, or replace private property damaged or destroyed as a result of, or incident to, operations under this chapter; and

(f) Contributions; cooperation with other agencies; disposition of moneys

to receive and accept money and property, real or personal, or interests therein, as a gift, bequest, or contribution, for use in any of the activities authorized under this chapter; and to conduct any of the activities authorized under this chapter in cooperation with any person or agency, Federal, State, or private. Any money so received shall be deposited in the Treasury of the United States in an available trust fund to be disbursed by the Secretary of the Treasury upon certification by the Secretary of the Interior in accordance with the terms of the grant, and shall remain available until expended for the purposes for which received and accepted.

(Aug. 31, 1954, ch. 1156, §6, 68 Stat. 1010.)

Editorial Notes

Codification

In subsec. (a), "chapter 51 and subchapter III of chapter 53 of title 5" substituted for "the Classification Act of 1949, as amended" on authority of Pub. L. 89–554, §7(b), Sept. 6, 1966, 80 Stat. 631, the first section of which enacted Title 5, Government Organization and Employees.

In subsec. (b), "section 6101 of title 41" substituted for "section 3709, Revised Statutes (41 U.S.C., sec. 5)" on authority of Pub. L. 111–350, §6(c), Jan. 4, 2011, 124 Stat. 3854, which Act enacted Title 41, Public Contracts.
30 U.S.C. § 661 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 18: COAL RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT / Section 661: Short title; definitions
Short title; definitions
Status: in_force

(a) This chapter may be cited as the "Coal Research and Development Act of 1960".

(b) In this chapter:

(1) The term "research" means scientific, technical, and economic research and the practical application of that research.

(2) The term "Secretary" means the Secretary of Energy.

(Pub. L. 86–599, §1, as added Pub. L. 109–58, title X, §1009(a)(1)(A), Aug. 8, 2005, 119 Stat. 934.)

Editorial Notes

Prior Provisions

A prior section 661, Pub. L. 86–599, §1, July 7, 1960, 74 Stat. 336, defined terms for purposes of this chapter, prior to repeal by Pub. L. 109–58, title X, §1009(a)(1)(A), Aug. 8, 2005, 119 Stat. 934.
30 U.S.C. § 121 (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 3: LANDS CONTAINING COAL, OIL, GAS, SALTS, ASPHALTIC MATERIALS, SODIUM, SULPHUR, AND BUILDING STONE / Subchapter V: AGRICULTURAL ENTRY OF LANDS WITHDRAWN OR CLASSIFIED AS CONTAINING PHOSPHATE, NITRATE, POTASH, OIL, GAS, ASPHALTIC MINERALS, SODIUM, OR SULPHUR / Section 121: Agricultural entry or purchase of lands withdrawn or classified as containing phosphate, nitrate, potash, oil, or gas; reservations to United States; application
Agricultural entry or purchase of lands withdrawn or classified as containing phosphate, nitrate, potash, oil, or gas; reservations to United States; application
Status: in_force

Lands withdrawn or classified as phosphate, nitrate, potash, oil, gas, or asphaltic minerals, or which are valuable for those deposits, shall be subject to appropriation, location, selection, entry, or purchase, if otherwise available, under the nonmineral land laws of the United States, whenever such location, selection, entry, or purchase shall be made with a view of obtaining or passing title with a reservation to the United States of the deposits on account of which the lands were withdrawn or classified or reported as valuable, together with the right to prospect for, mine, and remove the same. All applications to locate, select, enter, or purchase under this section shall state that the same are made in accordance with and subject to the provisions and reservations of sections 121 to 123 of this title.

(July 17, 1914, ch. 142, §1, 38 Stat. 509; June 16, 1955, ch. 145, §2, 69 Stat. 138.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

1955—Act June 16, 1955, removed 160-acre limitation on desert entry.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Additional Desert-Land Entry

Increase of limitation with respect to desert entries to 320 acres, see note set out under section 83 of this title.
30 U.S.C. § 192c (2024) — Title 30: MINERAL LANDS AND MINING / Chapter 3A: LEASES AND PROSPECTING PERMITS / Subchapter I: GENERAL PROVISIONS / Section 192c: Rules and regulations governing issuance of certain leases; disposition of receipts
Rules and regulations governing issuance of certain leases; disposition of receipts
Status: in_force

The Secretary of the Interior is authorized under general rules and regulations to be prescribed by him to issue leases or permits for the exploration, development, and utilization of the mineral deposits, other than those subject to the provisions of chapter 7 of this title, in those lands added to the Shasta National Forest by the Act of March 19, 1948 (Public Law 449, Eightieth Congress), which were acquired with funds of the United States or lands received in exchange therefor: Provided, That any permit or lease of such deposits in lands administered by the Secretary of Agriculture shall be issued only with his consent and subject to such conditions as he may prescribe to insure the adequate utilization of the lands for the purposes set forth in the Act of March 19, 1948: And provided further, That all receipts derived from leases or permits issued under the authority of sections 192a to 192c of this title shall be paid into the same funds or accounts in the Treasury and shall be distributed in the same manner as prescribed for other receipts from the lands affected by the lease or permit, the intention of this provision being that sections 192a to 192c of this title shall not affect the distribution of receipts pursuant to legislation applicable to such lands.

(Sept. 1, 1949, ch. 529, §3, 63 Stat. 683.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

Act of March 19, 1948 (Public Law 449, Eightieth Congress), referred to in text, is act Mar. 19, 1948, ch. 139, 62 Stat. 83. See Shasta National Forest codification note set out under sections 486a to 486w of Title 16, Conservation.

Codification

Section was not enacted as part of act Feb. 25, 1920, ch. 85, 41 Stat. 437, known as the Mineral Leasing Act, which comprises this chapter.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Transfer of Functions

Functions of Secretary of the Interior under this section, with respect to use and disposal from lands under jurisdiction of Secretary of Agriculture of those mineral materials which Secretary of Agriculture is authorized to dispose of from other lands under his jurisdiction under sections 601 to 604 and 611 to 615 of this title, see Pub. L. 86–509, June 11, 1960, 74 Stat. 205, set out as a Transfer of Functions from Secretary of the Interior to Secretary of Agriculture note under section 2201 of Title 7, Agriculture.