Section 9-16-3
Purpose of article.
The objective of this article is to provide for the safe and reasonable reclamation of lands upon which surface disturbances will be created by certain types of surface mining so as to protect the taxable value of property and preserve natural resources within the state and to protect and promote the health and safety of the people of this state, consistent with the protection of physical property and with maximum employment and the economic and industrial well-being of the state.
(Acts 1969, No. 399, p. 773, §2.)