A successor in interest to a permit holder may continue the surface coal mining and reclamation plan of the original permit holder until the successor's application is granted or denied if the successor:

1. (1) applies for a new permit not later than the 30th day after the date the person succeeds to the interest; and
2. (2) is able to obtain the same bond coverage as the original permit holder.

Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 76, Sec. 12.02(a), eff. Sept. 1, 1995.