Sec. 11526. Working group on covered resources
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/bill/117/hr/3684/eas/section-11526A research copy — for the controlling text, always check the official state or federal source. Not legal advice.
In this section: The term covered resource means a common variety material used in transportation infrastructure construction and maintenance, including stone, sand, and gravel. The term State means each of the several States, the District of Columbia, and each territory or possession of the United States. The term Working Group means the working group established under subsection (b). Not later than 120 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall establish a working group to conduct a study on access to covered resources for infrastructure projects.
The Secretary shall appoint to the Working Group individuals with knowledge and expertise in the production and transportation of covered resources. The Working Group shall include not less than 1 representative of each of the following: State departments of transportation. State agencies associated with covered resources protection. State planning and geologic survey and mapping agencies. Commercial motor vehicle operators, including small business operators and operators who transport covered resources.
Covered resources producers. Construction contractors. Labor organizations. Metropolitan planning organizations and regional planning organizations. Indian Tribes, including Tribal elected leadership or Tribal transportation officials. Any other stakeholders that the Secretary determines appropriate. The Working Group shall terminate 180 days after the date on which the Secretary receives the report under subsection (f)(1). In carrying out the study required under subsection (b), the Working Group shall analyze— the use of covered resources in transportation projects funded with Federal dollars; how the proximity of covered resources to such projects affects the cost and environmental impact of those projects; whether and how State, Tribal, and local transportation and planning agencies consider covered resources when developing transportation projects; and any challenges for transportation project sponsors regarding access and proximity to covered resources.
In carrying out the study required under subsection (b), the Working Group shall consult with, as appropriate— chief executive officers of States; State, Tribal, and local transportation and planning agencies; other relevant State, Tribal, and local agencies, including State agencies associated with covered resources protection; members of the public with industry experience with respect to covered resources; other Federal entities that provide funding for transportation projects; and any other stakeholder the Working Group determines appropriate.
Not later than 2 years after the date on which the Working Group is established, the Working Group shall submit to the Secretary a report that includes— the findings of the study required under subsection (b), including a summary of comments received during the consultation process under subsection (e); and any recommendations to preserve access to and reduce the costs and environmental impacts of covered resources for infrastructure projects. Not later than 90 days after the date on which the Secretary receives the report under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate a summary of the findings under the report and any recommendations, as appropriate.