Pit dewatering: prohibition.
Vote required
Majority
Fiscal committee
No
Appropriation
No
Current location
Natural Resources
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed Assembly
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill restricts surface mining operations in California by prohibiting pit dewatering in certain areas. Specifically, it prohibits removing water from pits located where subsurface river flow or groundwater is close to the surface – within 50 feet of the ground. The goal is to protect groundwater resources during surface mining activities. This legislation amends existing mining regulations to include this new restriction.
Key provisions
- Prohibits pit dewatering in areas with subsurface river flow.
- Prohibits pit dewatering in areas with groundwater levels shallower than 50 feet below ground.
- Defines ‘pit dewatering’ to include pumped or drained water and wet pit overflows due to rainfall or seepage.
- Adds Section 2770.2 to the Public Resources Code.
- Amends Section 2710 of the Public Resources Code to formally name the Surface Mining and Reclamation Act of 1975.
Who is affected
- Surface mining operators
- Individuals and companies involved in surface mining
- California residents near surface mining operations
- Water resource managers
- Environmental regulators
Notable changes
- Introduces a new restriction on pit dewatering practices.
- Establishes a specific depth threshold (50 feet) for groundwater consideration.
Bill text
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Sponsors
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1 on record
Primary sponsor
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