East Idaho Times

Today, the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee passed legislation introduced by Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho) aimed at enhancing the production of critical minerals. Senator Risch also supported the nominations of Katherine MacGregor for Deputy Secretary of Interior and James Danly for Deputy Secretary of Energy.

In remarks on the legislation, Senator Risch emphasized the importance of domestic mineral resources, particularly to national defense, food security, and energy independence. "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,” he stated. “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 proposed Mining Regulatory Clarity Act, known as S.544, seeks to remove obstacles to mineral production on public lands primarily in the western states. This legislation is co-sponsored by Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.).