This bill amends existing laws related to environmental quality and bonding requirements for limited mining operations in Wyoming. It introduces new bonding amounts and conditions for reclamation, specifying that operators must file a bond of $2,000 per acre for operations commencing before July 1, 2025, and $5,000 per acre for those starting on or after that date. Additionally, for quarries, the bond amounts are set at a maximum of $3,000 per acre for operations before July 1, 2025, and $7,000 per acre for those commencing afterward. The bill also extends the timeframe for operators to post additional bonds from 30 to 45 days if deemed necessary by the administrator.

Furthermore, the bill allows for the release of bonds after two successful growing seasons that establish permanent vegetative cover for limited mining operations, contingent upon consultation with affected surface owners. The environmental quality council is tasked with promulgating necessary rules to implement these changes. The act is effective immediately, with specific provisions taking effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
25LSO-0200 v0.4: 35-11-401, 35-11-417, 35-11-423