MN HF2560

Requires nonferrous metallic mineral mine operators to obtain permits from the commissioner of natural resources and provide financial assurance sufficient to cover closure, corrective action, reclamation, and postclosure maintenance costs.

Establishes application fees of $25,000 for taconite operations, $50,000 for nonferrous metallic minerals, $10,000 for scram mining, and $5,000 for peat operations.

Permits financial assurance only in forms of cash, U.S. bonds or obligations, federal agency obligations, federal corporation obligations, or FNMA indebtedness; prohibits corporate guarantees, self-insurance, and captive insurance.

Requires the commissioner to annually review financial assurance adequacy and publish notices in the State Register and Environmental Quality Board Monitor, with 30-day public objection periods and contested case procedures available.

Designates the permittee and any person managing or directing operations, including parent entities, as responsible for complying with mining regulations and permit conditions.