Each operator who has had five years of satisfactory operation in the Commonwealth under Chapter 16 (§ 45.1-180 et seq.) of this title shall become a member of the Fund by making an initial payment to the Fund of fifty dollars for each acre estimated to be affected by mining operations during the next ensuing year. Thereafter, the member shall, within ten days following the anniversary date of each permit issued to the member, make a payment to the Fund of twelve dollars and fifty cents for each acre estimated to be affected by mining operations during the next ensuing year. Such payments shall continue to be made until the member has paid into the Fund a total of $500 for each acre, estimated to be affected under the permits issued to the member.
1978, c. 634.