SENATE BILL REPORT

HB 1406

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

As of Second Reading

Title: An act relating to adjusting the surface mining funding structure.

Brief Description: Adjusting the surface mining funding structure.

Sponsors: Representatives Barkis, Blake, Chandler, Fitzgibbon and Wilcox; by request of Department of Natural Resources.

Brief History: Passed House: 6/29/17, 94-0.

Committee Activity:

Brief Summary of Bill

Changes the surface mining permit application fee from $2,500 to $4,500.
Changes the reclamation plan revision fee from $1,000 to $2,500.

Changes the current tiered annual surface mining permit fee structure to a flat fee of $2,000 regardless of the quantity of material extracted.

Staff: Curt Gavigan (786-7437)

Background: The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) regulates surface mine reclamation in Washington. A person engaging in surface mining activities must have an approved reclamation plan and a reclamation permit issued by DNR.

The application fee for a new reclamation permit, for the expansion of an existing permitted mine, or for the combination of existing public or private reclamation permits, is $2,500. The fee for a revision to an existing reclamation plan is $1,000. Permit holders must also pay an annual fee that varies based on the quantity of material extracted:

0 to 50,000 tons: $1,250;
50,001 to 350,000 tons: $2,500; and
350,000 or more tons: $3,500.

Summary of Bill: The application fee for a new reclamation permit, for the expansion of an existing permitted mine, or for the combination of existing public or private reclamation permits, is $4,500. The fee for a revision to an existing reclamation plan is $2,500. The annual fee for all permit holders, regardless of amount extracted, is $2,000.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Creates Committee/Commission/Task Force that includes Legislative members: No.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.