The bill amends RCW 78.44.085 to establish new surface mine reclamation permit fees and revise existing fee structures. It introduces a nonrefundable application fee of $4,500 for various types of applications, including revisions of existing reclamation permits, expansions of permitted surface mines, new reclamation permits, and combinations of existing permits. The annual permit fee for public or private permit holders is set at $3,500, while a reduced fee of $2,500 is established for public permit holders operating mines exclusively for public works projects.

Additionally, the bill ensures that any production records, mineral assessments, and trade secrets submitted to the department remain confidential and are not subject to public records requests. It also clarifies that appeals of department determinations do not delay the requirement to pay annual fees, and failure to pay may lead to suspension of mining operations or cancellation of permits. The bill mandates that all fees collected be deposited into the surface mining reclamation account and allows for the allocation of funds to local governments if enforcement responsibilities are delegated.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 78.44.085