Governor Corbett Signs Legislation Into Law Amending the Coal and Gas Resource Coordination Act

Senate Bill 265 was signed into law on May 13, 2011, amending the Coal and Gas Resource Coordination Act.  The amendments expand multiple definitions under the Act, focusing on the workable coal seam as described by the operator on the five-year timing map required to be submitted to DEP for a permit.  If they have not already, all mine operators must provide a current five-year timing map to DEP by June 12, 2011.  The Act now also allows less than the previous 900 foot minimum distance between gas wells and workable coal seams via written consent.  To view the amendments in detail, please view Senate Bill 265.

Written by Steven P. Trialonas, Research Fellow

May 13, 2011