To amend titles II, V and VII of the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 to make the mining of coal without a permit a criminal offense, and for other purposes.

Amends the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 to reduce from 250 to 25 tons the maximum number of tons of coal that may be removed without specific regulatory approval.

Establishes criminal penalties (including fines, imprisonment, and forfeiture) for surface coal mining operations conducted without a permit.