North Dakota Shuffles Abandoned Mine Cleanup Cash Rules
Published Date: 12/18/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
North Dakota is updating its plan to clean up old, abandoned mines. The changes clarify how the cleanup money can be used, set up a special trust fund, and adjust which lands and waters get priority. People have until January 20, 2026, to share their thoughts, and a public hearing might happen on January 12, 2026.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 2 mixed.
Changes to allowable fund uses
The amendment updates the purposes for which the North Dakota abandoned mine reclamation fund may be used under North Dakota law (NDCC chapter 38-14.2). This alters what kinds of reclamation or related activities the State can spend the fund on.
Revised eligible lands, waters, priorities
The proposed amendment revises the definition of eligible lands and water and changes project priorities for abandoned mine land reclamation in North Dakota. These revisions affect which sites and projects the State will prioritize for reclamation funding and work.
State trust account for cleanup funds
North Dakota’s proposed amendment creates a set-aside trust account in the State treasury for the North Dakota abandoned mine reclamation fund. This changes how the State will hold and manage the cleanup money for abandoned coal mine reclamation.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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