Open Cut Mining Act Breakdown

First here is an AI analysis of this legislative loophole filled embarrassment of a bill:

Loopholes:

• Exemptions for government (roads, flood control), landowners (non-commercial, own-use), small sites (<3 acres w/50’ buffer or 1/4 mile from lines), pre-1971/pre-1999 sites, quarries, agriculture—misclassification allows evasion.

• General permits for minimal-impact ops (similar nature, low effects) lack individual scrutiny.

• Self-bonding or low bonds if undervalued (80% FMV max, no usage-depreciating collateral).

• Stream exemptions for certain rivers; pH deviations if “natural” or unavoidable runoff.

• Incremental mining delays full reclamation; extensions (3 max) before forfeiture.

Shutdown Methods:

• Report violations (permit conditions, bond, reclamation failure) to DEQ for inspection/enforcement (fines, suspension, revocation under 15.312).

• Challenge via public comments on new/major mods (30 days post-notice).

• Prove misrepresentation in app for revocation.

• Trigger bond forfeiture if unreclaimed after extensions.

• Seek judicial review if DEQ denies action.

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