CA AB896

Authorizes the Geologic Energy Management Division to impose a lien against an operator's property before performing ordered work, in an amount equal to an estimate of the cost based on contractor bids or comparable previous work.

Requires the division to establish a collections unit by July 1, 2022, to identify responsible parties, locate assets, and collect amounts owed for unpaid fees and work costs, using existing resources and personnel until January 1, 2027.

Requires the division to send operators an annual notice by April 1 identifying the idle well fee amount due by May 1, with an opportunity for operators to request corrections before May 1.

Defines idle well fee charges as immediately delinquent if not paid as required, and charges for work ordered under Section 3226 as delinquent if not paid within 30 days after service of cost accounting.

Requires annual reports on idle and long-term idle wells to include, beginning in 2023, descriptions of the collections unit's activities including fees collected, cost recovery amounts, and information on liens placed and released.