Risch Bill to Protect Critical Mineral Mining Passes Energy Committee

Committee also advances President Trump’s nominees WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Jim Risch’s (R-Idaho) legislation to bolster critical mineral production passed the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. Senator Risch also voted to support President Trump’s nominees for the Deputy Secretary of Interior, Katherine MacGregor, and Deputy Secretary of Energy, James Danly. “The United States, and particularly the Gem State, is home to many critical minerals essential for our national defense, food security, and energy independence. For too long, these resources have been tied up in litigation and red tape, impeding our ability to become self-sufficient,” said Risch. “I am pleased to see the Energy and Natural Resources Committee advance legislation and nominees that will prioritize the production and supply of domestic critical minerals.” The Mining Regulatory Clarity Act would prevent significant impediments to critical mineral production on public lands across the West. The legislation, S.544, was introduced by Senator Risch and Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.).