Bill 118 hr 7779, also known as the Good Samaritan Remediation of Abandoned Hardrock Mines Act of 2024, aims to address the issue of abandoned hardrock mines in the United States. These mines pose a significant environmental and public health risk due to the presence of toxic substances such as heavy metals and acid mine drainage.
The bill proposes to encourage private entities and individuals, known as "Good Samaritans," to voluntarily remediate abandoned hardrock mines by providing liability protections. This means that Good Samaritans who take on the task of cleaning up these sites will not be held legally responsible for any environmental contamination that may have occurred prior to their involvement.
Additionally, the bill establishes a grant program to provide financial assistance to Good Samaritans for the remediation of abandoned hardrock mines. This funding will help cover the costs associated with cleanup efforts, such as water treatment, soil remediation, and habitat restoration.
Overall, the Good Samaritan Remediation of Abandoned Hardrock Mines Act of 2024 aims to incentivize private entities and individuals to take action in addressing the environmental hazards posed by abandoned hardrock mines, ultimately leading to cleaner waterways, healthier ecosystems, and safer communities.