LA HB899

Creates the Louisiana Noncoal Surface Mining Law, granting the Department of Conservation and Energy exclusive jurisdiction over noncoal surface mine reclamation and prohibiting local governments from enacting ordinances on this subject

Requires operators to obtain permits ($1,000 fee, renewable every 5 years) with a five-year reclamation plan, and existing operators must apply within 6 months of the law's effective date

Imposes a reclamation fee of 3 cents per ton on minerals sold from surface mining operations, with revenues deposited in the state general fund

Mandates land restoration to support intended post-mining uses (forestry, pastureland, recreation, wildlife habitat, etc.) within 36 months of completing grading, with annual status reports required

Establishes penalties including misdemeanor charges ($50-$1,000 fine per day) for unpermitted mining and civil penalties up to $1,000 per day for permit violations, with enforcement through the 19th Judicial District Court