The bill amends Section 82-4-232 of the Montana Code Annotated to enhance the process for releasing performance bonds related to strip and underground mining operations. Key changes include the introduction of predictive modeling as an acceptable method for demonstrating compliance with approved reclamation plans. The bill specifies that the description of reclamation results in bond release applications may include predictive modeling alongside monitoring data. Additionally, the department is empowered to use predictive modeling in conjunction with monitoring data to evaluate reclamation work and determine the acceptability of bond release applications.

Furthermore, the bill establishes provisions for severability and contingent voidness, stating that if any part of the act is deemed invalid, the remaining valid parts will remain in effect. It also stipulates that if the act is disapproved by the United States Secretary of the Interior, it will become void. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage and approval.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 82-4-232