MI HB6251

Requires ferrous mineral operators to obtain permits and submit mining and reclamation plans that include mining methods, surface stripping plans, grading and stabilization provisions, equipment removal plans, threatened species protection measures, and future land use designations.

Allows courts to consolidate all appeals relating to approval or denial of permits for ferrous mineral mining operations.

Requires the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy to promulgate rules within 18 months establishing specific and objective standards to ensure nonferrous metallic mineral mining does not pollute, impair, or destroy air, water, natural resources, or public trust, or harm public health and safety.

Specifies that excavation and removal of nonferrous metallic minerals and associated overburden does not itself constitute pollution or impairment of natural resources.

Changes department inspection authority from "all reasonable times" to "any reasonable time" and clarifies that local units of government cannot regulate mining activities, though they may regulate operating hours and vehicle routes if reasonable.