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Homeowners Call For Tougher Blasting Laws
Lawmaker Calls For Pre-Blast Surveys To Be Extended
Reported By Cara Kumari

POSTED: 9:16 pm CST November 6, 2008
UPDATED: 11:27 am CST November 7, 2008

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- The signs of blasting damage, shifted foundations and cracks in walls have become common in various parts of middle Tennessee. Some are now calling for all blasting to stop and for lawmakers to take another look at the issue.

Video: Some Call For Revisiting Blasting Laws

Lawmakers passed legislation two years ago to strengthen regulations, but some said those rules did not go far enough.

"We're trying to get the process of science involved in the decision-making of what needs to happen with regulations on blasting," said Nina Ground, who is against blasting.
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Ground is circulating a petition in hopes of stopping all blasting until lawmakers revisit the issue. One state politician said he will bring up a plan next session that he hopes will resolve the issue.

Rep. Ben West Jr., a Democrat from Hermitage, wants pre-blast surveys conducted for all homes within 450 feet of a blasting site, instead of 300 feet. He also wants blast companies to use smaller charges.

"There's got to be a compromise to protect the equity in homeowners' homes. What they have their whole estate tied up in is their homes," said West.

Blasting opponents said there are alternatives to blasting that are just as cost effective. They said that while pre-blast surveys help for later possible claims, it doesn't prevent blasting damage from occurring.

Last year's efforts to strengthen blasting regulations failed.

Previous Stories:

* October 22, 2008: Falling Rocks Cause Damage In Davidson Co.
* August 28, 2008: Blasting Damages Home, Says Resident
* May 2, 2008: Residents Say Blasting Destroying Homes
* March 3, 2008: Some Residents Say Blasting Bill No Good