The general assembly declares that voids, and open and abandoned tunnels, shafts, and entryways resulting from any previous mining operation constitute a hazard to the public health or safety and that surface impacts of any underground or surface mining operation may degrade the environment. The governor is authorized to request the appropriate federal officer under federal programs to fill such voids, seal such abandoned tunnels, shafts, and entryways, and reclaim surface impacts of underground mines which could endanger life and property, constitute a hazard to the public's health and safety, or degrade the environment. The commission is authorized to carry out such work pursuant to an approved abandoned mine reclamation program and with funds available for use in carrying out the purpose of this section from federal moneys received.
§ 444.935, RSMo