AL HB547

Requires Alabama Department of Environmental Management to obtain prior approval from affected municipal and county governing bodies before issuing new or modified permits for granite or limestone surface mining operations.

Mandates local governing bodies consider and make findings on eight specific criteria including impacts on roads, public services, health and safety, property values, water systems, erosion, wildlife, and blasting effects.

Requires at least one public hearing with notice published 30-45 days in advance in a newspaper of general circulation and official gazette, with description of proposed operation and contact person for additional information.

Makes all pertinent documents available for public inspection during normal business hours at an accessible location.

Becomes effective immediately upon passage and approval by the Governor.