U.S. Reps. Blake Moore (R-UT) and Dan Newhouse (R-WA) on Dec. 19 cosponsored legislation that aims to quash a proposed rule by the Biden administration that would hasten permitting for only those mining projects deemed critical by the federal government.
The proposed rule, offered this fall by the Federal Permitting Improvement Steering Council, would amend the council’s regulations to revise the scope of mining as a sector with infrastructure projects eligible for coverage under the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation Act’s Title 41, known as FAST-41.
Such a move could harm America’s ability to quickly and effectively produce minerals like copper, iron, and host minerals, according to a bill summary provided by the lawmakers.
H.R. 6862, which Rep. Moore and Rep. Newhouse introduced alongside bill sponsor U.S. Rep. Doug Lamborn (R-CO), would block the Biden administration from passing this proposed rule, the summary says.
“The Biden administration’s proposed rule will prevent the U.S. from meeting our domestic mining production goals and reducing our reliance on China,” Rep. Moore said. “At a time when legacy mineral demand has never been higher, the federal government needs to leverage every tool to meet our energy manufacturing and infrastructure needs rather than sending the wrong signal to industry.”
Rep. Newhouse agreed, pointing out that while America should be working to secure domestic supply chains, the Biden administration is redefining the process to make starting new projects harder for minerals not listed as critical by the federal government.
“This rule change would make the United States even more reliant on Communist China for minerals, putting our national and economic security at risk,” said Rep. Newhouse, chairman of the Congressional Western Caucus, which, he added, “is committed to securing and strengthening America’s domestic mineral production.”
H.R. 6862 is supported by the National Mining Association and has been referred for consideration to the U.S. House Natural Resources Committee.
“I’m proud to co-sponsor this bill that would overturn President Biden’s rule and ensure Utah mining projects qualify for FAST-41 status,” said Rep. Moore.