OSM - Applicant Violator System (AVS-WIN)
Investment ID: 010-000000711
Overview
Program Title
OSM - Applicant Violator System (AVS-WIN)
Description
The Applicant Violator System is a tool used to implement Sec. 510(c) of the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 which specifies that no mining permit be issued to applicants with responsibility for unabated mining violations.
Type of Program
Non-major IT Investments
Multi-Agency Category
Not Applicable
Associated Websites
https://avss.osmre.gov/Login.aspx?ReturnUrl=%2fsecure%2fhome.aspx
Investment Detail
The AVS creates incentive to pay fees and penalties and has consistently been a part of an administrative/regulatory process that causes payments to be made by violators that are greater than the cost of the program. However, this system primarily operates as a deterrent to those who would consider not performing required reclamation. The level of anticipated reclamation was established as a part of the permitting process. However a business may consider not perfoming that reclamation if the cost would outweigh the benefit. The AVS creates a nationwide listing for those who have not performed as guaranteed. Those operators are restricted from further mining and may not receive an Abandoned Land Mine contract award if they are out of compliance. Compliance therefore becomes a cost of business that creates benefits for the industry. This system's value cannot be adequately calculated due to the deterrent nature of its operation. The intrinsic value of the system is that it promotes the systematic reclamation of mined areas and the protection of water resources.