The proposed bill establishes a framework for property owners to seek compensation for damages caused by limestone mining operations in Florida. It creates several new sections in the Florida Statutes, specifically sections 552.445 through 552.4454, which outline legislative findings, definitions, claims processes, adjudication procedures, and compensation mechanisms. The bill recognizes the economic importance of limestone mining while addressing the concerns of residents in North West Miami-Dade County and South West Broward County who have reported property damage due to ground vibrations from mining activities.

Under the new provisions, property owners within a three-mile radius of limestone mining operations can file claims for compensation if they can demonstrate that their property damage is linked to these operations. Claims must be submitted within two years of discovering the damage and must include evidence of ownership, damage, and a connection to the mining activities. The Division of Administrative Hearings will adjudicate these claims, requiring claimants to prove their case by a preponderance of the evidence. If a claim is upheld, the state is mandated to compensate the property owner for repair costs based on market rates, with annual appropriations from the General Revenue Fund to ensure timely payments.