Summary
Sets aside money to pay people, farmers, and businesses for specific damages they suffered from the 2015 Gold King Mine wastewater spill in Colorado.
What problem does this solve?
In 2015, the EPA accidentally caused a massive spill of toxic water from the Gold King Mine, hurting local people and businesses who have not been fully paid for their losses. This bill creates a specific process for those affected to get money from the government to cover their damages.
Who does this affect?
- Homeowners, farmers, and business owners in Colorado affected by the 2015 spill
- The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
What does this bill do?
Creates a compensation fund
Sets aside up to $3.3 million for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to pay people and businesses for damages from the spill.
Defines who can be paid
Limits payments to homeowners, farmers, ranchers, and businesses that filed a claim by August 5, 2017, and have not already settled for more than $2,500.
Specifies what damages are covered
Allows claims for injury, lost business income, livestock relocation costs, and lost crops. It specifically excludes costs for environmental cleanup and emotional distress.
Sets a deadline for the EPA to act
Requires the EPA Administrator to investigate and make a final decision on all submitted claims within 180 days of the bill becoming law.
Allows for court challenges
Permits a person who disagrees with the EPA's final decision to challenge it in the U.S. District Court for the District of Colorado within 60 days.
Makes claimants choose their legal option
Forces an injured person to choose between accepting payment under this act or pursuing a separate lawsuit. Accepting a payment releases the U.S. from all other claims.
What is the real world impact?
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Provides a specific path to compensation
Creates a direct way for victims of the spill to receive payment. The EPA had previously denied claims, so this bill establishes a clear process and a fund to settle with those who were harmed.
When does this start?
The compensation process begins when the bill becomes law, with several key deadlines for action.
EPA decision on claims
The EPA Administrator must make a final decision on all covered claims no later than 180 days after the bill is enacted.
Filing a court challenge
A claimant who is unhappy with the EPA's decision has 60 days from the date of the decision to file a lawsuit in federal court.
Report to Congress
The EPA must submit a final report to Congress describing all claims and payments within 90 days after all claims have been processed.