§ 27-1324 — Injunctive relief; civil penalties

A. Beginning January 1, 2007, if the state mine inspector has reason to believe that a person is violating this chapter or a rule adopted pursuant to this chapter or that a person is causing an imminent and substantial danger to the public safety, the inspector, through the attorney general, may request a temporary restraining order, a preliminary injunction, a permanent injunction or any other relief necessary to protect the public safety, without regard to whether the person has requested a hearing.

B. A person who violates this chapter or a rule, order or reclamation plan approval adopted or issued pursuant to this chapter is subject to a civil penalty of not more than one thousand dollars for each day of violation, not to exceed fifteen thousand dollars for each violation. At the inspector's request, the attorney general shall file an action in superior court to recover civil penalties as prescribed by this section.

C. An action filed under this section shall be brought in superior court in the county in which the alleged violation occurred or in which the inspector maintains an office.