Mississippi Code
Abandoned Mine Lands Reclamation Program
§ 53-9-107. Right of entry upon property adversely affected by past coal mining; order and required findings; right of entry upon property to conduct studies or exploratory work

then, thirty (30) days after giving notice by mail to the owners if known or if not known, by posting notice on the premises and advertising once in a newspaper of general circulation in the municipality or county where the land lies, the executive director, his agents, employees, or contractors shall have the right to enter upon the property adversely affected by past coal mining practices and any other property to have access to such property to do all things necessary or expedient to restore, reclaim, abate, control, or prevent the adverse effects if the landowner does not file an objection with the commission. If, within the thirty-day notice period, the landowner files an objection with the commission, the commission will schedule a hearing on the matter to be conducted under Section 49-17-41. After a hearing on the matter, the commission will issue an order including findings of facts and conclusions of law, which, if adverse to the landowner, may be appealed under Section 49-17-41. Such entry, if ordered by the commission, shall be construed as an exercise of the police power for the protection of public health, safety, and general welfare and shall not be construed as an act of condemnation of property or of trespass. The funds expended for this work and the benefits accruing to the premises entered on shall be chargeable against the land and shall mitigate or offset any claim in or any action brought by any owner of any interest in the premises for any alleged damages by virtue of such entry. This provision is not intended to create new rights of action or eliminate existing immunities.