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U.S. Department of Energy
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Reorganization of the Office of Surface Mining. Oversight hearing before the Subcommittee on Energy and the Environment of the Committee on Interior and Insular Affairs, House of Representatives, Ninety-Seventh Congress

Book ·
OSTI ID:6129991
Six witnesses representing Indian tribes, Congress, and state and local governments testified at the one-day hearing on strip mining regulation and the proposal to reorganize the Federal Office of Surface Mining. Rep. Schroeder of Colorado pointed out that, while there is a consensus for improved efficiency and economy, the Interior Secretary has not demonstrated that this will happen. A spokesman for Wyoming noted that the state coal mining regulatory structure is well designed to protect environmental quality and public health, but balanced with a plan for a rational rate of coal development. A coalition for 16 mining states supports the return of decision making to the state level. Spokesmen for Indian tribes expressed their concern that reorganization plans may undermine the reclamation required by the existing law, and requested further strengthening of the law. Secretary Watt defended his reorganization plan and responded to questions raised by the witnesses and committee members. The testimony is followed by additional material submitted for the hearing record. (DCK)
OSTI ID:
6129991
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English