Montana Code Annotated 2023

TITLE 82. MINERALS, OIL, AND GAS

CHAPTER 4. RECLAMATION

Part 3. Metal Mine Reclamation

Hard-Rock Mining Reclamation Special Revenue Account

82-4-315. Hard-rock mining reclamation special revenue account. (1) There is a hard-rock mining reclamation special revenue account within the state special revenue fund established in 17-2-102. There must be paid into the account:

(a) revenue from the sale of hard-rock mining reclamation bonds issued by the board of examiners pursuant to 82-4-313 and 82-4-314;

(b) interest income earned on the account; and

(c) excess money transferred from the hard-rock mining reclamation debt service fund as described in 82-4-312.

(2) Funds may be appropriated from the hard-rock mining reclamation special revenue account for the following purposes only:

(a) state costs of implementing legally required reclamation, operation, and maintenance at hard-rock mines that would otherwise not occur because there is no likelihood of getting additional funds from the mine operator and the available surety bond is insufficient;

(b) state costs of implementing legally required reclamation, operation, and maintenance neither eligible for nor reasonably expected to be reimbursed from other federal or private funds; and

(c) state costs related to the implementation of 82-4-312 through 82-4-315.

History: En. Sec. 4, Ch. 460, L. 2001.