SECTION 45.1-361.21.1. Coalbed methane gas; ownership  


A conveyance, reservation, or exception of coal shall not be deemed to include coalbed methane gas. Nothing in this section shall affect a coal operator's right to vent coalbed methane gas for safety purposes or release coalbed methane gas in connection with mining operations. The provisions of this section shall not affect any settlement of any dispute, or any judgment or governmental order, as to the ownership or development of coalbed methane gas made or entered prior to the enactment of this provision.

2010, cc. 730 , 730 .