Enrolled Bill Summary

Under current law, an operator who produces not more than 100,000 tons of coal per year is eligible to receive state assistance in the permit application process. Senate Bill 636 amends the Natural Resources Code to raise the total annual production cap for small coal mining operators from 100,000 tons to 300,000 tons. The act also clarifies that land and water are eligible for reclamation or abatement if they meet certain qualifications.