HB547 Alabama 2010 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Jeff McLaughlin

Democrat

Co-Sponsors

Butch TaylorElwyn ThomasBarry Mask

Session

Regular Session 2010

Title

Granite and limestone surface mining, local approval prior to issuance of state permit required, public hearings required, Sec. 22-22A-5.1 added

Summary

The bill would require local governments to approve granite or limestone surface mining permits before the state can issue or modify those permits.

What This Bill Does

It would prohibit the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) from issuing new or modified granite or limestone mining permits until affected municipalities or counties approve. It requires local governments to consider a detailed set of impacts—such as roads, public services, health and safety, community and property effects, water balance and quality, erosion and habitat, natural watercourses, and blasting effects—and to hold public hearings with notice and access to information. The act also sets notice, documentation, and public-comment procedures and would take effect immediately upon governor's approval.

Who It Affects

• Local governments (cities and counties) that would evaluate and decide on permit approvals for proposed mining operations.
• Mining operators seeking permits for granite or limestone surface mines.
• Residents and property owners in areas affected by proposed mining operations.
• The Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM), which would be required to rely on local approval before issuing permits.

Key Provisions

• Adds Section 22-22A-5.1 requiring local approval before ADEM issues new or modified granite/limestone mining permits.
• Requires local governing bodies to consider and make findings on: road and transportation impacts; costs and availability of public services and improvements; public health and safety; social and economic impacts including property values; hydrologic balance and water quality/quantity; erosion, siltation, and habitat impacts; effects on natural watercourses and drainage; and blasting impacts on private property and values.
• Public hearing and notice requirements: at least one public hearing with published notice 30 to 45 days before the hearing; notices must describe the operation and provide a contact for more information; all relevant documents must be available during normal business hours.
• Process: a local governing body must hold a public hearing and allow public comment before recommending approval of a proposed operation.
• Effective date: the act becomes effective immediately after passage and governor approval, or otherwise becomes law.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 25, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Environment