Federal Laws
Click on one of the statutes below for an outline of the key provisions. Full text of the major statutes are provided as well.
Mineral Leasing Act for Acquired Lands
The MLAAL establishes that minerals present on lands acquired by the federal government are subject to the Minerals Leasing Act of 1920.
Mining and Minerals Policy Act of 1970
The MMPA establishes modern federal policy regarding mineral resources in the United States.
Mining Law of 1872 (the “Hardrock” Minerals Act)
This law authorizes and governs prospecting and mining for economic minerals on federal public lands.
Multiple Mineral Development Act
The MMDA establishments management procedures for lands subject to both the Mining Law of 1872 and the Mineral Leasing Act of 1920.
Multiple-Use Sustained-Yield Act
The MUSYA authorizes and directs the Secretary of Agriculture to develop and administer the renewable resources of timber, range, water, recreation, and wildlife on the national forests for multiple use and sustained yield of the products and services.
National Environmental Policy Act
NEPA establishes a broad national framework for protecting the environment of the United States.
National Forest Management Act and Forest and Rangeland Renewable Resources Planning Act
The NFMA governs the administration of national forests.
National Park System Mining Regulation Act
The NPSMRA regulates mining on lands within the National Park System.
National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act
The NWRSAA provides for the administration and management of the National Wildlife Refuge system.
Nuclear Waste Policy Act
The NWPA established regulations for the use of deep geologic repositories for the safe storage and/or disposal of radioactive waste.