Bill > HB0015

This bill modifies Wyoming's environmental regulations for limited mining operations, specifically addressing bonding requirements and bond release processes. The bill increases bond amounts for limited mining operations (defined as mining on 15 acres or less) based on the start date: operations commencing before July 1, 2025, will require a $2,000 per acre bond, while operations starting on or after that date will need a $5,000 per acre bond. Similar increases apply to quarries, with bond amounts rising from $3,000 to $7,000 per acre. The legislation also adjusts administrative timelines, such as extending the period for operators to post additional bonds from 30 to 45 days and increasing the initial notification period from 90 to 150 days. Importantly, the bill streamlines the bond release process for limited mining operations, allowing operators to potentially have their bonds released after just two successful growing seasons that establish permanent vegetative cover, compared to the previous five-year waiting period. The environmental quality council is tasked with creating necessary rules to implement these changes, with most provisions becoming effective on July 1, 2025.

Business and Industry

Minerals, Business and Economic Development (J)

https://www.wyoleg.gov/Legislation/2025/HB0015