Bill > HB0010

This bill amends Wyoming's environmental quality laws to modify regulations for limited mining operations, which are small-scale mining activities on 15 acres or less. The bill introduces several key changes, including expanding the types of minerals that can be mined, increasing bonding requirements for mining operations, and establishing new restrictions on mining activities. Specifically, the bill raises bond amounts for different types of mining operations, with increases taking effect in July 2025, ranging from $2,000 to $5,000 per acre for certain mineral extractions and up to $7,000 per acre for quarries. The legislation also introduces new limitations, such as restricting operators to only one limited mining operation within adjacent areas or within a six-mile radius for the same mineral type. Additionally, the bill requires operators to submit more detailed annual reports, including information about mineral sales and evidence of ongoing commercial viability. For non-coal minerals, the bill stipulates that operations must be for evaluating mineral deposits and use only mechanical mining methods. The bill also modifies bond release provisions, allowing for earlier bond release after two successful growing seasons that establish permanent vegetative cover, and grants the environmental quality council authority to create rules implementing these changes.

Business and Industry

Minerals, Business and Economic Development (J)

https://www.wyoleg.gov/Legislation/2025/HB0010