The bill revises Montana's mine reclamation laws by updating definitions and requirements related to mining operations and their environmental impacts. It introduces a new definition of "material damage," which specifies quantifiable adverse effects on surface and groundwater quality or quantity that impede existing or foreseeable uses outside the permit area. The bill also clarifies the impacts of underground mining on alluvial valley floors and subsidence, detailing conditions that constitute significant impairment to land and water resources. Additionally, it amends sections 82-4-203 and 82-4-222 of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA) to reflect these changes and provides rulemaking authority to the relevant department.

Moreover, the legislation emphasizes the need for comprehensive permit applications that include detailed plans for mining, reclamation, and hydrologic assessments. It introduces new definitions such as "surface owner," "topsoil," and "wildlife habitat enhancement feature," while clarifying terms like "unwarranted failure to comply" and "written consent." The bill requires operators to provide hydrologic information when available, and if not, the department will use data collected by the applicant to assess potential impacts on water resources. It outlines necessary components of permit applications, establishes a process for revising applications, and includes a severability clause. The act will take effect upon passage and approval, with retroactive applicability to pending legal actions related to permit challenges.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 82-4-203, 82-4-222
HB0587_1(1): 82-4-203, 82-4-222
HB0587_1(2): 82-4-203, 82-4-222
HB0587_1(3): 82-4-203, 82-4-222
HB0587_1(4): 82-4-203, 82-4-222
HB0587_1(5): 82-4-203, 82-4-222
HB0587_1: 82-4-203, 82-4-222
HB0587_X(1): 82-4-203, 82-4-222
HB0587_X(2): 82-4-203, 82-4-222
HB0587_X: 82-4-203, 82-4-222