90-2-1113. Evaluation criteria -- priority. (1) Except as provided in subsection (2), the department shall consider the following criteria in evaluating eligible applications and in selecting projects to be recommended to the governor for funding:

(a) the degree to which the project will provide benefits in its eligibility category or categories;

(b) the degree to which the project will provide public benefits;

(c) the degree to which the project will promote, enhance, or advance the policies and purposes of the reclamation and development grants program;

(d) the degree to which the project will provide for the conservation of natural resources;

(e) the degree of need and urgency for the project;

(f) the extent to which the project sponsor or local entity is contributing to the costs of the project or is generating additional nonstate funds;

(g) the degree to which jobs are created for persons who need job training, receive public assistance, or are chronically unemployed; and

(h) any other criteria that the department considers necessary to carry out the policies and purposes of the reclamation and development grants program.

(2) Subject to the conditions of this part, the department shall give priority to grant requests not to exceed a total of $800,000 for the biennium for abandoned mine reclamation projects. A grant may not be used for personnel costs or general operating expenses.