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East Idaho Times

Wednesday, February 19, 2025

Risch and Cortez Masto introduce bill to aid Western U.S. mineral production

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Se. James E. Risch, U.S. Senator for Idaho | Senator James E. Risch Official website

Se. James E. Risch, U.S. Senator for Idaho | Senator James E. Risch Official website

U.S. Senators Jim Risch from Idaho and Catherine Cortez Masto from Nevada have introduced the Mining Regulatory Clarity Act, a piece of legislation aimed at facilitating critical mineral production in the Western United States. This proposed law seeks to clarify that activities supporting mining operations, such as waste storage or processing, can take place on lands lacking economically valuable minerals.

The introduction of this bill comes in response to recent legal challenges that have disrupted the established interpretation of the Mining Law. Without legislative intervention, these challenges could hinder critical mineral production on public lands throughout the West.

Senator Risch emphasized the importance of domestic mineral production for energy, technology, and national security needs. He stated, “For too long, Idaho’s minerals have been tied up in red tape, preventing responsible use of our natural resources. The Mining Regulatory Clarity Act ensures mining projects in Idaho and across the West can proceed and provide invaluable support to our communities and country.”

Senator Cortez Masto highlighted the need to streamline federal permitting processes to maximize Nevada's critical mineral economy. She remarked, “I’m continuing my bipartisan push to pass this commonsense bill that will cut red tape, protect mining jobs in Nevada, help support clean energy projects nationwide.”

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