MT HB699

Expands the definition of "independent review panel member" to include non-engineers who are recognized subject matter experts in tailings storage facility design, construction, operation, and closure, while requiring the panel maintain a majority of licensed engineers

Provides liability protection for independent review panel members, who may not be held individually liable for acts or omissions made in their capacity as department-approved panel members

Revises the tailings storage facility definition to exclude facilities partially below surrounding grade if the above-grade portion retains 50 acre-feet or less of tailings, water, and process solution

Requires panel members to prepare and sign a written report summarizing their review of design documents, with recommended modifications requiring engineer of record revision and panel concurrence before final certification

Changes periodic review frequency from mandatory 5-year intervals to panel-determined frequency, but requires annual assembly during initial construction and at least every 5 years after construction until tailings deposition is complete