RCW 78.44.055: Surface mining of coal—Preemption of chapter by federal laws, programs.

In the event state law is preempted under federal surface mining laws relating to surface mining of coal or the department of natural resources determines that a federal program and its rules and regulations relating to the surface mining of coal are as stringent and effective as the provisions of this chapter, the provisions of this chapter shall not apply to such surface mining for which federal permits are issued until such preemption ceases or the department determines such chapter should apply.