The Surface Mining and Reclamation Act of 1975: idle reserve mine status.

Assembly Member Carrillo's proposal to modify California's Surface Mining and Reclamation Act creates a new administrative pathway for idle construction aggregate mines to maintain their status while preserving future extraction potential. The legislation establishes an "Idle Reserve Mine Status" designation that allows qualifying operations to extend their interim management plans by up to 10 additional years beyond current renewal periods.

Under the new provisions, idle mines extracting materials like sand, gravel, and stone may apply for this status if they meet specific criteria: the State Geologist must verify adequate reserves for future infrastructure needs, the operation cannot be on federal land, and the Division of Mine Reclamation must have received fewer than 12 such applications in the current fiscal year. Approved operations must continue regular inspections and maintain financial assurances for eventual reclamation.

The bill requires the Division of Mine Reclamation to compile and publish annual data on mining operations, including their operational status, reclamation plans, and financial assurances. This reporting begins September 2027. The legislation also modifies inspection requirements, mandating that qualified professionals examine all mining sites - including those idle or in reserve status - at least every 12 months using standardized forms. These inspectors must complete division-approved training programs and maintain current certification.

The "Idle Reserve Mine Status" provisions sunset on January 1, 2032, though operations approved before that date may maintain their status through their current renewal period. The State Mining and Geology Board must develop implementing regulations, while the Division of Mine Reclamation will establish application review procedures and oversee the new reporting requirements.