The bill amends Section 82-4-232 of the Montana Code Annotated to improve the process for releasing performance bonds associated with strip or underground mining operations. A significant change is the introduction of predictive modeling as an acceptable method for demonstrating compliance with approved reclamation plans. Operators can now include predictive modeling in their bond release applications, alongside monitoring data, to showcase the effectiveness of their reclamation efforts. The bill also requires that reclamation results descriptions may incorporate this modeling, enhancing the evaluation of compliance.

In addition to these changes, the bill establishes a framework for the timely reclamation of disturbed areas, ensuring they can support previous land uses or better alternatives. It outlines conditions for approving alternative postmining land uses, emphasizing safety and adherence to existing land use policies. The bill includes provisions for public notification and objection processes related to bond release applications, promoting community involvement and transparency. It will take effect immediately upon passage and approval, but includes a contingent voidness clause, stating that if disapproved by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior, the act will become void.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 82-4-232
HB0616_1(1): 82-4-232
HB0616_1(2): 82-4-232
HB0616_1(3): 82-4-232
HB0616_1(4): 82-4-232
HB0616_1(5): 82-4-232
HB0616_1(6): 82-4-232
HB0616_1(7): 82-4-232
HB0616_1: 82-4-232
HB0616_X(1): 82-4-232
HB0616_X(2): 82-4-232
HB0616_X(3): 82-4-232
HB0616_X(4): 82-4-232
HB0616_X(5): 82-4-232
HB0616_X(6): 82-4-232
HB0616_X(7): 82-4-232
HB0616_X(8): 82-4-232
HB0616_X(9): 82-4-232
HB0616_X: 82-4-232