MI HB6258

Transfers mine inspection authority from 1911 PA 163 to the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy under new Part 629 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, applying to metallic mineral mines.

Requires the department to inspect each active mine at least once every 60 days, condemn dangerous mines or sections, order workers to vacate dangerous areas, and require safety equipment including shaft safeguards and protective coverings on mine carriages.

Authorizes the department to order owners of idle or abandoned mines to erect and maintain fences or railings around shafts and open pits within 30 days; if owners fail to comply, the department may erect them and place a lien on the property for costs incurred, with priority over most other liens.

Establishes civil fines of $100 to $500 for violations including: reopening closed mines without a safety certificate, preventing inspections, allowing workers in condemned areas, and disclosing names of workers who report safety concerns to the department.

Requires the department to maintain a public website list of abandoned metallic mineral mines and submit an annual report by March 1 documenting mine accidents causing injury or death, including circumstances and negligence findings.