The bill amends South Dakota's mining statutes to clarify definitions and update the application processes for mining permits, particularly focusing on large-scale mining operations. Key changes include the removal of the term "abandoned mined lands" and the introduction of new definitions such as "large-scale mine" and "life of the mine." A large-scale mine is defined as one that employs specific extraction methods or affects more than ten acres of land. The bill also establishes a framework allowing operators to temporarily cease production for up to five years, contingent upon meeting certain requirements, including filing a request with the board and maintaining reclamation activities.

Additionally, the bill modifies application fees for mining permits, increasing the fee for new large-scale mine permits to fifty thousand dollars while keeping the standard application fee at one thousand dollars. It mandates that operators submit an annual report by January 1st, detailing affected land, reclamation efforts, and operational plans, along with an oral presentation to the board. The criteria for issuing permits are also revised, limiting new surface mining permits to a maximum of 320 acres of disturbed land and requiring reclamation on an equal number of acres before new permits can be issued. Overall, these amendments aim to streamline the permitting process, enhance environmental protection, and clarify the responsibilities of mining operators in South Dakota.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 02/03/2026: 45-6B-3, 45-6B-14, 45-6B-18, 45-6B-53, 45-6B-56, 45-6B-60, 45-6B-81, 45-6B-87, 45-6B-93, 45-6B-94, 45-6B-95, 45-6B-97, 45-6C-3, 45-6B-96