Mining Waste, Fraud, and Abuse Prevention Act of 2025

This bill would overhaul how hardrock mining works on federal land. It would stop new mining claims under the 1872 mining law and move to a leasing system; older claims could continue for a limited time and be converted to leases, or they would end if not converted on time. It also blocks new mining patents (turning claims into private property) unless the application was already filed by 1994.

It sets stronger rules to protect land and water. No one may disturb land, water, or wildlife on federal land without a permit; companies must set aside money for cleanup and restore the site when mining ends . Agencies must consult with Tribal nations before actions that could affect Tribal lands, rights, or resources. The bill requires monitoring and public reporting, lets citizens go to court to enforce the law, and adds clear fines and permit suspensions for violations .

Key points

• Who is affected: mining companies and small miners; nearby communities; Tribal nations; and federal land agencies (due to the consultation and oversight rules) .
• What changes:
  • New system: no new mining claims; exploration and mining would use prospecting licenses and leases. Some areas would be leased competitively, and there’s a cap on how much land one company can control per state .
  • Fees and cleanup fund: a $200 yearly claim fee (miss it and you lose the claim); a new 7¢-per-ton fee on rock moved; and other user fees that adjust for inflation. These help pay for an Abandoned Hardrock Mine Reclamation Program to clean up old mines .
  • Small miners: a special lease (up to 200 acres) with low rentals ($5 per acre for the first 3 years, then $10), no royalties, limits on transfer, and the same permit rules as others .
  • Royalties: hardrock production would pay royalties; in limited cases the rate can be reduced, but never below 6.25%. Royalties start after the law takes effect, with the first year’s payment due at the end of that year .
• When: most existing claims get up to 10 years to transition; some only 3 years. Certain claims may face a $100-per-acre-per-day fee if not converted after 10 years; unconverted claims can be voided .