The proposed discretionary budget reduces spending in regulatory programs by $16.7 million and concentrates mandatory funding on priority abandoned coal mines.
The OSM will receive and distribute $459.5 million in fiscal year 2011, including $259.5 million for high-priority abandoned coal mine reclamation and $200 million to pay for health care for beneficiaries to the United Mine Workers of America Health Plans. The budget proposes to modify these mandatory grants by eliminating payments to certified states and tribes, those that have completed the cleanup of abandoned coal mines. This proposal will save $115 million in 2011 and includes funds to address any high-priority coal issues that may develop in the future.
