ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY – Repeals and adds to existing law to establish provisions regarding ore processing by cyanidation.

This bill (S 1170) establishes new regulatory requirements for mining facilities using cyanidation - a process that extracts gold/silver from ore with cyanide solution - to protect water quality. It directly affects mining companies operating or expanding cyanidation facilities in Idaho by requiring permits before construction, operation, or major modifications. Key provisions mandate that facilities must be designed with specific containment systems (like liners and secondary barriers) to prevent cyanide pollutants from entering waterways, and require detailed engineering documentation for permits. The law repeals outdated rules and applies to all new facilities or material modifications after June 30, 2005, while grandfathering some existing operations. It became effective March 31, 2025, after Governor approval.