The bill amends existing Florida statutes to address issues related to former phosphate mining lands. It introduces new provisions that allow landowners to record a notice identifying their property as a former phosphate mine, which serves as a formal notification of the land's history. The bill also defines what constitutes a former phosphate mine and establishes requirements for conducting gamma radiation surveys on these lands. Specifically, the Department of Health is mandated to perform these surveys upon request from landowners, ensuring that radiation levels are documented and communicated to the petitioners.
Additionally, the bill creates a requirement for plaintiffs in civil actions related to phosphate mining to include a radiation survey with their complaints. This survey must be conducted by certified professionals and must adhere to specific documentation standards, including the methodology and equipment used. The bill aims to enhance transparency and safety regarding the environmental impacts of phosphate mining, while also providing legal defenses for property owners in cases where natural geological substances from former phosphate mines are involved. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.