Bill > HR978

This bill addresses mining activities in Minnesota's Superior National Forest by rescinding Public Land Order 7917, which previously withdrew federal lands from mineral leasing. The bill mandates that the Secretary of the Interior or Agriculture (depending on the context) must complete environmental and regulatory reviews for Mine Plans of Operations within 18 months of submission, with supplemental reviews to be completed within 6 months. It requires the reissuance of mineral leases, preference right leases, and prospecting permits that were canceled between January 31, 2021, and the bill's enactment, with modified terms including a 20-year initial lease term and the right to renew for five subsequent 10-year terms. The bill also directs the Secretary to grant preference right leases for previously rejected applications within 5 days of enactment, and allows for permits for surface land use related to these leases. Notably, the leases and permits issued under this bill would not be subject to judicial review, effectively protecting the mining interests from legal challenges. The bill aims to expedite mining operations and restore previously canceled mineral rights in the Superior National Forest region.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/978/all-info