Bill > H0226

This bill makes several significant changes to Idaho's mine license tax and abandoned mine reclamation laws. It adjusts the allocation of mine license tax, splitting revenues differently between the general fund and the abandoned mine reclamation fund for different types of mining operations. The bill establishes a new advisory committee composed of representatives from environmental agencies, government offices, county government, conservation interests, and mining companies to help set reclamation priorities. The Idaho Department of Lands will now be required to maintain a public list of eligible mines, publish an annual report detailing reclamation fund expenditures, and consult with the advisory committee on reclamation planning. The bill also introduces the concept of "voluntary contributions" from non-governmental organizations or companies, which can be used as environmental mitigation for mining projects. Additionally, the bill stipulates that at least 90% of reclamation funds must be spent directly on mine site restoration and related services. The priorities for reclamation are explicitly defined, with public health and safety being the top priority, followed by water quality restoration and land resource restoration. The bill takes effect on July 1, 2025, and is designed to improve the management and transparency of abandoned mine reclamation efforts in Idaho.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

Ways and Means Committee (H)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2025/legislation/H0226/