To amend the Stock Raising Homestead Act to resolve certain problems regarding subsurface estates, and for other purposes.
Became Public Law No: 103-23.
Congressional Research Service
Official summary
Version 00 · Introduced in House · Jan 5, 1993
Amends Federal law regarding stock-raising homesteads to require a written notice to the surface owner and the Secretary of the Interior (the Secretary) before a person may enter lands for exploration purposes or to locate a mining claim. Provides for an authorized exploration period during which exploring and locating a mining claim may be conducted with specified negligible surface disruption. Limits the total acreage that may be covered at any time by notices of intention to locate a claim. Prohibits any mineral exploration or development activities without the surface owner's written consent (unless the Secretary has authorized them according to prescribed guidelines). Prohibits the Secretary from authorizing any mineral activities unless a plan of operations has been submitted meeting specified criteria. Directs the Secretary to submit such plan of operations for the surface owner's comments and modifications before determining whether it complies with this Act. Requires the person submitting a plan to pay a fee to the surface owner for the use of surface during mineral activities. Requires reclamation of land to return it to a condition capable of supporting the uses which it was capable of supporting before surface disturbance. Authorizes any surface owner to request an inspection if such owner has reason to believe that he may be adversely affected due to any violation of an approved plan of operations. Provides for enforcement through a civil action by the surface owner. Requires the Secretary to simplify the procedure for surface owners who apply to obtain title to interests in Federal lands. Requires the Secretary of the Interior to report to the Congress on the acquisition by foreign firms of mineral interests on lands covered by the 1916 Stock Raising Homestead Act.
Considered as unfinished business. (consideration: CR H1698-1699)
At the conclusion of debate, the Yeas and Nays were demanded and ordered. Pursuant to the provisions of clause 5, rule I, the chair announced that further proceedings on the motion would be postponed until March 30.
DEBATE - The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate.
Considered under suspension of the rules. (consideration: CR H1656-1658)
Mr. Lehman moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill.
Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 20.
Reported (Amended) by the Committee on Natural Resources. H. Rept. 103-44.
Reported (Amended) by the Committee on Natural Resources. H. Rept. 103-44.
Ordered to be Reported (Amended).
Committee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held.
Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee (Amended).
Subcommittee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held.
Subcommittee Hearings Held.
Executive Comment Requested from Interior.
Referred to the Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources.
Referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources.
Introduced in House
Introduced in House
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Source last updated: Jan 2, 2025. Consult Congress.gov for the current record.
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