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 Section 47-1206 to change the distribution of the mine license tax, reducing the percentage allocated to the general fund from sixty-six percent (66%) to fifty percent (50%) and increasing the share for the abandoned mine reclamation fund from thirty-four percent (34%) to fifty percent (50%). Additionally, Section 47-1703 is amended to allow for voluntary contributions to the reclamation fund and outlines how these funds can be utilized, emphasizing that at least ninety percent (90%) of reclamation funds must be spent on direct expenses related to eligible mine site restoration.

The bill also establishes an advisory committee under Section 47-1706 to assist the Idaho Department of Lands in prioritizing and planning reclamation work. This committee will include representatives from various sectors, including environmental quality, mining organizations, and local government. Furthermore, a new section (47-1707) is added to define the responsibilities of the Department of Lands, which includes maintaining a list of eligible mines and publishing an annual report on the use of reclamation funds. The bill 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