Bill > HB2785

This bill modifies the fees and reporting requirements for the State Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI). The bill allows the State Geologist to adjust various fees related to mining operations, including application fees, annual renewal fees, and special inspection fees. The fee structure includes provisions for additional charges when an application requires extraordinary resources due to environmental concerns. The bill removes specific dollar amounts for fees, potentially giving the department more flexibility in fee setting. Most significantly, the bill introduces a new annual reporting requirement where DOGAMI must submit a comprehensive report to legislative committees by September 15 each year. This report must cover detailed information about pending permit applications, fee revenues, processing times, departmental performance, potential efficiency improvements, and results of any performance audits of the mined land regulatory program. The goal appears to be increasing transparency and accountability in the department's operations related to mining permits and land reclamation.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

Agriculture, Land Use, Natural Resources, and Water (House)

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/HB2785