CA AB1609

Requires the Department of Conservation to notify surface mining operations by personal service or certified mail when they will not be included on or will be removed from the compliance list.

Grants surface mining operations 30 days from receipt of notice to file an appeal with the State Board of Mining and Geology, with hearings required within 60 days of filing.

Allows surface mining operations to remain on the compliance list pending appeal resolution if the appeal has not been pending for more than 180 days.

Prohibits the board from hearing appeals alleging only ministerial violations (giving operators 30 days to correct) or claims already adjudicated or pending adjudication in separate proceedings.

Authorizes the board to establish regulations for declining to hear appeals raising only ministerial issues.