AZ Free News: House Unanimously Passes Ciscomani’s Bipartisan Critical Minerals Bill

The U.S. House of Representatives passed bipartisan legislation led by U.S. Rep. Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ-06) to strengthen domestic supply chains for critical minerals, including copper, on Tuesday.

The measure, the Critical Mineral Consistency Act (H.R. 755), would align federal definitions used by the U.S. Department of Energy and the Department of the Interior for materials considered critical to national security, manufacturing, and energy infrastructure. The legislation passed the House unanimously.

Currently, the Department of Energy maintains a list of “critical materials,” while the U.S. Geological Survey within the Department of the Interior maintains a separate list of “critical minerals.” Because the lists differ, certain materials do not qualify for federal incentives, financing opportunities, or streamlined permitting available to resources designated as critical minerals.

The legislation would align the two federal lists, allowing materials identified by the Department of Energy to receive the same recognition and benefits granted to those listed by the U.S. Geological Survey.

According to Ciscomani’s office, the policy change is intended to provide greater clarity for federal agencies and industry while accelerating domestic mining and processing projects.

The legislation was introduced with bipartisan support and has backing from industry groups, including the Copper Development Association, National Mining Association, National Electric Manufacturers Association, and the Business Council for Sustainable Energy.

“Accessing critical minerals and materials is essential for our national security and energy grid. Government red tape should not be a barrier to development and innovation,” said Rep. Susie Lee (D-NV-03), a co-sponsor of the bill. “Whether something is a ‘critical mineral’ according to the Interior Department or a ‘critical material’ according to the Energy Department, the federal government should treat all as critical resources. I’m glad my commonsense, bipartisan bill is one step closer to providing the clarity that both industry and federal agencies need.”

The bill now moves to the U.S. Senate for consideration.