Who issues the license to operate a coal mine?

• A. The department
• B. The union
• C. The state legislature
• D. The local government

Answer: (A)

Licensing a coal mine is a regulatory task handled by the state's department responsible for mining regulation. This department reviews and approves the mine’s operating plan, safety program, environmental controls, and bonding, then issues the operating license and oversees ongoing compliance. A union does not issue licenses, the state legislature enacts laws but does not grant licenses, and local government may require local permits but not the formal mine operating license. In short, the department is the authority that issues the license to operate a coal mine.