Montana coal mines can now use computer models instead of real-world data to prove cleanup

Montana is changing its rules for how coal mining companies prove they have cleaned up a site. Companies can now use computer models to predict future conditions, alongside actual monitoring data, when applying to get their cleanup bonds back. This means companies might be able to get their money back faster, even if the site isn't fully stable yet.

For decades, mining companies had to show real-world data proving a site was reclaimed before they could get their cleanup money back. This change means Montana is now allowing predictions to count as proof. It could make it easier and faster for companies to get their bonds released, potentially leaving taxpayers on the hook if the models are wrong and the cleanup fails later.