MontanaSB 36869th Legislature, Regular Session (2025)SenateWALLET

Allow correction of minor maintenance items at mines

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

4 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.

Higher fines and liability release for mines

The law sets fines of $100 to $5,000 per violation, plus $100 to $5,000 for each day it continues. If you do not fix a violation on time, you must pay at least $750 per day for up to 30 days. After you pay an assessed penalty in full, the department issues a written release of civil liability within 30 days.

Quick fixes and penalty waivers for mines

For minor maintenance found during inspection, the department gives you 14 days to fix it. Correction is checked at the next regular inspection. If you do not fix it by then, you get a notice of noncompliance or a stop-work order. The department can waive penalties for a minor violation that does not harm health, safety, or the environment and does not impair administration. No waiver applies if you fail to abate as directed.

Criminal penalties for mining violations

Breaking mining rules is a misdemeanor with fines of $500 to $10,000 and up to 1 year in jail. Knowingly making false or missing required statements can bring up to $10,000 and up to 1 year in jail. Resisting or interfering with the department can bring up to $5,000 and up to 1 year in jail. Department employees may not hold a financial interest in mining; violations can bring up to $2,500 and up to 1 year in jail.

Immediate stop-work orders for dangerous mines

If an inspection finds an imminent danger, the director orders the affected operation to stop at once. The director can also require steps to remove the danger. For less urgent violations, the department sets a fix-by date of up to 90 days and offers a public hearing. If the problem is not fixed after that time, the director orders the operation to stop.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Sue Vinton
Republican • Senate

Cosponsors

Jill Cohenour
Democrat • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 289 • No: 6

Senate vote • 3/31/2025

Do Concur

Yes: 99 • No: 0

Senate vote • 3/29/2025

Do Concur

Yes: 97 • No: 0

Senate vote • 3/6/2025

Do Pass

Yes: 47 • No: 3

Senate vote • 3/5/2025