Bill > HR4875

This bill amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to create a framework for the beneficial use of coal combustion residuals (coal ash), establishing a new category called "beneficial use staging units" (BUSUs). The bill allows owners of coal ash storage sites to apply for BUSU designation, which provides a structured pathway to repurpose coal ash for infrastructure and other uses. To qualify, storage units must be lined, meet groundwater monitoring requirements, and comply with existing regulations. Applicants must submit a management plan detailing the volume of coal ash, removal schedule, potential critical mineral recovery, and target markets for reuse. Depending on the volume of stored coal ash, operators must remove at least 25% of their stored materials within 5-10 years, with specific timelines based on the unit's size. The bill prohibits adding new coal ash to these staging units and prevents states from establishing conflicting regulations. The Environmental Protection Agency will be responsible for tracking and reporting on these units annually, starting in 2026. Importantly, the bill provides a mechanism to keep coal ash storage sites operational while incentivizing their gradual repurposing, potentially supporting infrastructure development and resource recovery.

Business and Industry

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/4875/all-info