This bill amends several sections of the Idaho Code related to mines and mining, specifically focusing on the mine license tax and the management of the abandoned mine reclamation fund. Notably, it revises the distribution of the mine license tax, changing the allocation from sixty-six percent (66%) to fifty percent (50%) for the general fund and from thirty-four percent (34%) to fifty percent (50%) for the abandoned mine reclamation fund. Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for voluntary contributions to the reclamation fund and establishes an advisory committee to assist the Idaho Department of Lands in prioritizing and planning reclamation efforts.

The bill also includes technical corrections and definitions, such as clarifying the roles of the Idaho Department of Lands and the responsibilities of the board overseeing reclamation efforts. It mandates that at least ninety percent (90%) of reclamation funds be spent on direct expenses related to mine site restoration and outlines how voluntary contributions can be utilized for environmental mitigation. The act declares an emergency, making it effective on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 47-1206, 47-1703, 47-1704, 47-1706, 47-1707, 47-1708