ND HCR3031

Expresses concern with the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement's proposed stream protection rule, citing insufficient justification and scope regarding environmental impact.

Calls on the agency to immediately suspend work on the environmental impact statement and new regulation until it publicly justifies why the existing 2008 regulations are inadequate and provides scientific data supporting each provision of the proposed rule.

Requests the North Dakota Congressional Delegation and Governor to oppose the proposed rule by withholding further federal funding for the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement until the agency justifies the need for new regulations.

Claims the proposed rule could sterilize several million tons of North Dakota lignite coal and harm an industry that supports over 27,000 jobs, generates over $93 million in state taxes, and contributes $2.9 billion to state gross domestic product.

Directs the Secretary of State to forward the resolution to the President of the United States, Secretary of the Interior, Surface Mining and Reclamation and Enforcement director, Governor of North Dakota, Public Service Commission, and all North Dakota Congressional Delegation members.