The proposed bill establishes the Mining and Blasting Residential Protection Act, which aims to regulate mining and blasting operations in proximity to residential areas and protected structures. It defines key terms such as "blasting operation," "buffer zone," "mining operation," and "protected structure," and sets forth specific criteria for obtaining mining and blasting permits. Notably, the bill prohibits new mining or blasting permits within 800 feet of any residence or protected structure, requiring applicants to demonstrate compliance with these distance requirements. Additionally, permits must include maps identifying nearby residentially zoned properties and protected structures, as well as a clear depiction of the required buffer zone.

To ensure community awareness, the bill mandates that applicants post signs and send notifications to residents within the buffer zone prior to submitting permit applications. The Department of Mines is authorized to create rules to implement these provisions and can issue cessation orders, suspend or revoke permits, and impose civil penalties for violations. The act is set to take effect on November 1, 2026.