The proposed bill establishes a framework for property owners in Florida to seek compensation for damages caused by limestone mining operations. It creates several new sections in the Florida Statutes, including definitions of key terms such as "claimant," "ground vibrations," and "property damage." Property owners within a three-mile radius of limestone mining operations who have experienced damage can file a claim for compensation, which must be supported by evidence of ownership, damage, and a link to the mining activities. Claims must be submitted within two years of discovering the damage.
Additionally, the bill outlines the adjudication process for these claims, which will be handled by the Division of Administrative Hearings. The process includes a hearing where evidence can be presented, and the claimant must prove their case by a preponderance of the evidence. If a claim is upheld, the state is required to compensate the property owner for repair costs based on market rates, with annual appropriations from the General Revenue Fund to ensure timely payments. The bill aims to balance the economic benefits of limestone mining with the rights of affected property owners.