The bill amends several sections of the North Dakota Century Code concerning the reclamation of abandoned surface mines. It defines an "abandoned mine reclamation plan" to include not only the identification of areas to be reclaimed and the purposes of reclamation but also the legal authority and programmatic capability to perform such work as required by the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977. Additionally, it establishes a state abandoned mine reclamation fund and a special fund for the restoration of ecosystems affected by abandoned mines, detailing the sources of revenue for these funds and the specific purposes for which they can be used.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the commission's authority to administer the abandoned mine reclamation program, emphasizing the protection of public health and safety from the adverse effects of past mining practices. It prioritizes reclamation efforts based on the severity of danger posed to public health and safety, and it allows for the reclamation of noncoal mining sites under certain conditions. The amendments also clarify the eligibility of lands and waters for reclamation and the responsibilities of the state in fulfilling these requirements, ensuring that funds are allocated effectively to address the impacts of both coal and noncoal mining practices.

Statutes affected:
PREFILED: 38-14.2-02, 38-14.2-04, 38-14.2-06, 38-14.2-07
Adopted by the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee: 38-14.2-02, 38-14.2-04, 38-14.2-06, 38-14.2-07
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 38-14.2-02, 38-14.2-04, 38-14.2-06, 38-14.2-07
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Representative Porter: 38-14.2-02, 38-14.2-04, 38-14.2-06, 38-14.2-07
Enrollment: 38-14.2-02, 38-14.2-04, 38-14.2-06, 38-14.2-07
INTRODUCED: 38-14.2-02, 38-14.2-04, 38-14.2-06, 38-14.2-07