HF2636 Summary

• Requires nonferrous metallic mineral mining permit applicants to obtain an environmental impairment liability insurance policy covering all loss, liability, and cleanup costs from pollutant releases during mining or reclamation operations, in an amount determined by the commissioner.

• Mandates nonferrous mining operators submit financial assurance in the form of a cash bond or cash deposit before permit issuance or amendment, sufficient to cover reclamation activities including closure and postclosure maintenance.

• Requires the financial assurance to also cover corrective action costs if noncompliance with permit design and operating criteria occurs.

• Directs the commissioner to periodically review the amount of financial assurance to ensure it equals outstanding reclamation costs.

• Renumbers existing permit application requirements to accommodate the new environmental impairment liability insurance requirement for nonferrous operations.