On May 22, 2024, the Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources conducted an oversight hearing regarding the Fiscal Year 2025 budget requests for the United States Geological Survey (USGS) and the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE). Subcommittee Chairman Pete Stauber (R-Minn.) expressed concerns about the performance of these agencies under the Biden Administration.
"It is concerning that under the Biden Administration, the Office of Surface Mining, Reclamation and Enforcement and United States Geological Survey are not functioning as they should. Not only has this hindered coal production on federal, state, and private lands, but it has also prevented the domestic development of the mineral resources necessary for our way of life," Stauber stated. "I was grateful for the chance to question these Administration officials on their anti-mining and anti-energy policies and will continue to work with my colleagues on the Subcommittee to ensure these agencies begin to act in accordance with their mission."
The USGS provides scientific research data for various agencies within the Department of the Interior (DOI), other federal entities, and members of the public. This data supports land management decisions, natural disaster preparation and response, as well as energy and mineral development. The USGS is also tasked with publishing and updating a critical minerals list every three years. However, there have been criticisms regarding its lack of forecasting metrics in determining which substances are included on this list.
Federal coal mining operations are regulated by OSMRE under the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977. OSMRE oversees coal mining activities across the United States. Recently, a decision by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to select “no action” alternatives concerning future coal leasing in Montana and Wyoming removed millions of acres from potential coal leasing consideration. This decision is expected to significantly reduce revenues to the Abandoned Mine Land Trust Fund.
Today's hearing provided an opportunity for subcommittee members to hear from both USGS Director David Applegate and OSMRE Principal Deputy Director Glenda Owens regarding their agencies' actions and proposed budgets.
