Requires coal mine operators to obtain
a permit to mine under a body of water if in the judgment of the
Secretary of Labor, it is sufficiently large enough to constitute a
hazard to miners.
MSHAs records for 2007-2009
show that the number of plans for mining underwater that were
reviewed averaged approximately 80 plans per year, this is higher
than the previously used estimate of 30 plans per year. Increased
awareness of inundation hazards since the Quecreek incident in 2002
may have contributed to the increase in the number of permit
applications. In addition, the average wage rates used were
slightly higher than in the previous calculations.
On behalf of this Federal agency, I certify that
the collection of information encompassed by this request complies
with 5 CFR 1320.9 and the related provisions of 5 CFR
1320.8(b)(3).
The following is a summary of the topics, regarding
the proposed collection of information, that the certification
covers:
(i) Why the information is being collected;
(ii) Use of information;
(iii) Burden estimate;
(iv) Nature of response (voluntary, required for a
benefit, or mandatory);
(v) Nature and extent of confidentiality; and
(vi) Need to display currently valid OMB control
number;
If you are unable to certify compliance with any of
these provisions, identify the item by leaving the box unchecked
and explain the reason in the Supporting Statement.