Critical Minerals Security Act of 2025This bill establishes requirements for the Department of the Interior related to securing U.S. access to critical minerals and rare earth element (REE) resources. Critical minerals mean any mineral, element, substance, or material designated as critical by the U.S. Geological Survey. REEs mean cerium, dysprosium, erbium, europium, gadolinium, holmium, lanthanum, lutetium, neodymium, praseodymium, promethium, samarium, scandium, terbium, thulium, ytterbium, and yttrium. First, Interior must report on the critical mineral and REE resources, including recyclable or recycled materials containing those resources, around the world. Among other information, the report must include an assessment of the global ownership and supply of critical mineral and REE resources. Interior must submit the report within a year and every two years thereafter.Next, Interior must establish a process to assist a U.S. person—a U.S. citizen, a non-U.S. National (alien under federal law) lawfully admitted for permanent residence, or an entity organized under U.S. laws—seeking to divest stock in mining, processing, or recycling operations for critical minerals and REEs in a foreign country with finding a purchaser that is not under the control of North Korea, China, Russia, or Iran.Finally, Interior must develop (1) a strategy to collaborate with U.S. allies and partners to develop advanced mining, refining, separation, processing, and recycling technologies; and (2) a method for sharing related intellectual property with U.S. allies and partners to enable those countries to license those technologies and develop their resources.
By enforcing reporting on critical minerals, SB789 aims to safeguard the United States from potential shortages and vulnerabilities in its supply chains for these essential materials. The bill seeks to promote a strategic approach towards domestic mining and processing technologies, thereby reducing reliance on foreign sources and bolstering national security. This shift is expected to stimulate domestic mining industries and create economic opportunities while enhancing sustainable practices.
The Critical Minerals Security Act of 2025 (SB789) is a bill aimed at enhancing the United States' understanding and management of critical mineral and rare earth element resources worldwide. This legislation requires the Secretary of the Interior to submit biennial reports on global critical mineral resources, analyzing ownership and control dynamics, particularly concerning foreign entities of concern. The bill stipulates assessments of significant mines concerning their mineral outputs and identifies potential risks associated with foreign ownership or control.
However, the bill has sparked debate over regulatory implications and potential environmental impacts of increased mining activities. Proponents argue that advancing US mining capabilities is essential for future technological advancements and economic stability, especially in areas critical for energy transition technologies. Conversely, environmental advocates raise concerns about possible degradation resulting from expanded mining efforts. The balance between enhancing resource security and preserving environmental integrity presents key points of contention in discussions surrounding the bill.