FINAL BILL REPORT

EHB 1845

C 5 L 01

Synopsis as Enacted

Brief Description:  Increasing the fee for a surface mining reclamation permit.

Sponsors:  By Representatives Sehlin and H. Sommers; by request of Department of Natural Resources.

House Committee on Appropriations

Senate Committee on Ways & Means

Background:

The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) regulates and monitors surface mines.  The Surface Mine Reclamation Program is primarily funded by a $650 application fee paid to the department by persons applying for a surface mining permit.  Permit fee revenues are deposited into the Surface Mining Reclamation Account to support the program.

Summary:

The surface mining reclamation permit fee is increased from $650 to $1,000,  and it is clarified that the fee is non-refundable.

The department must advise permit applicants of any information needed to complete the application within 60 days.  The DNR is required to report to the Legislature on program deliverables and uses of the new fee revenue.

Votes on Final Passage:

House877

First Special Session

House759

Senate412

Effective:  July 1, 2001