ID H0255

Creates new criminal offense of "interference with mining activities" punishable by up to one year imprisonment or fine not exceeding $5,000, with mandatory restitution at twice the damage value for intentionally interfering with mining access, disrupting miners, or tampering with mining equipment or claims.

Exempts recreational prospecting and small-scale dredge mining from state comprehensive water plans, the Stream Channel Alteration Act, and the Dredge and Placer Mining Protection Act, declaring any existing restrictions on these activities invalid and void.

Defines "recreational prospecting" as hand panning, hand shoveling, and use of nonmotorized sluice or rocker boxes conducted at or below the mean high watermark of stream channels.

Defines "small-scale dredge mining" as extraction of minerals using a dredge unit with intake hose of 8 inches or less in diameter, powered by engine or natural pressure, extracting no more than 5 cubic yards per hour, with exception allowing prohibition on national wild and scenic rivers.

Declares act takes effect immediately upon passage and approval as an emergency measure.