SB 137 Summary

• Amends sections 1513.07 and 1513.073 of the Revised Code to revise Ohio's coal mining permit and reclamation laws

• Clarifies that set-back measurements from public roads, occupied dwellings, public buildings, and cemeteries are calculated horizontally rather than vertically, potentially allowing mining closer to these structures on sloped terrain

• Modifies permit application requirements for coal mining operations, including provisions for applicants demonstrating surface disturbance from strip mining methods when mineral and surface estates are severed

• Maintains existing environmental protections, hydrologic impact assessments, reclamation standards, and permit denial criteria while updating technical measurement and application procedures

• Updates regulations for unsuitable land designations for coal mining and procedures for public participation in permit decisions