Bill > HB1647

This bill amends the existing law regarding surface mine reclamation permit fees by updating several key provisions. The bill establishes a standardized $4,500 nonrefundable application fee for various permit-related actions, including revisions to existing reclamation permits, expansions of surface mines, new reclamation permits, and combining existing permits. The annual permit fees are also modified, with most permit holders now required to pay $3,500 annually, while public permit holders for mines used exclusively for public works projects will pay a reduced fee of $2,500. The bill maintains confidentiality protections for production records and trade secrets submitted by permit holders, and continues the requirement that all collected fees be deposited into the surface mining reclamation account. The bill also preserves existing provisions that allow the department to take enforcement actions for unpaid fees, including potential suspension of surface mining activities, and provides the option to refer delinquent fees to a collection agency. Additionally, the bill requires the department to advise applicants within 60 days of receiving a permit application about any additional information needed to complete the application process.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1647&Year=2025&Initiative=false