Bill > SB89

This bill amends several Kentucky statutes related to environmental protection, specifically focusing on water definitions and coal mining operations. It expands the definition of "water" or "waters of the Commonwealth" to include navigable waters, sinkholes with open throat drains, naturally occurring springs, and wellhead protection areas. The bill also introduces a new definition of "long-term treatment" for coal mining operations, which refers to active or passive water treatment necessary to meet water quality standards after initial reclamation is complete. Additionally, the legislation establishes a new requirement for additional financial bonding for mining permits that are deemed to require long-term water treatment. The bond amount would be calculated by multiplying the estimated annual treatment cost by 25, plus any capital costs of the treatment system. This ensures that there are sufficient funds available to address potential water treatment needs if a mining operator defaults on their responsibilities. The bill includes an emergency clause, indicating the urgent nature of these environmental and regulatory updates, and is designed to improve environmental protection and financial accountability in Kentucky's coal mining industry.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/record/25RS/sb89.html