Regards limestone, dolomite mining; increase severance taxes
What changed between versions
Added new definitions for 'in-stream mining', 'cone of depression', and 'activities related to making finished aggregate products' to clarify regulatory boundaries.
Modified exemptions for surface mining to exclude coal incidental to other minerals and clarify that small landowner extraction for noncommercial use remains exempt.
Changed permit renewal requirements to require a notice of intent at least 90 days before expiration and a complete renewal package at least 30 days before expiration.
Added specific requirements for hydraulic evaluations for in-stream mining applications to assess impacts on watercourses.
Updated permit durations to 15 years for surface mining and 5 years for in-stream mining, with specific rules for permit amendments and renewals.
Refined civil penalty procedures and clarified the chief's authority to deny permits if reclamation plans are inadequate or zoning laws are violated.