US House Passes 2024 Critical Mineral Consistency Act with Bipartisan Support
The US House of Representatives has approved the Critical Mineral Consistency Act of 2024, a bipartisan effort aimed at strengthening the nation’s critical mineral supply chain. The legislation expands the definition of critical minerals in the Energy Act of 2020 to include critical materials identified by the Department of Energy (DOE).
Expanding the Definition of Critical Minerals
Currently, the US Geological Survey (USGS) and DOE maintain separate lists of critical minerals and materials deemed essential for energy and economic security. These lists, which focus on resources at high risk of supply chain disruptions, often overlap but are not fully aligned.
Under the new act, the USGS will be required to include any materials added to the DOE’s critical materials list within 45 days of their designation. This alignment aims to create a unified approach to identifying and prioritizing critical resources.
Supporting the Clean Energy Transition
“Critical minerals are essential for our economy, national security, and clean energy technologies,” said Arizona Congressman Juan Ciscomani, who sponsored the legislation. He emphasized that the act would strengthen domestic supply chains and include vital resources like copper, electrical steel, silicon, and silicon carbide on the critical minerals list.
Industry leaders welcomed the move. Adam Estelle, CEO of the Copper Development Association, highlighted the importance of copper in enabling clean energy, electrifying transportation, and enhancing infrastructure.
“This is a significant win for US manufacturing, the clean energy transition, and our nation’s global competitiveness,” Estelle said.
Streamlining Permitting for Critical Mineral Projects
The act also ensures that critical mineral projects, including copper mines, are eligible for the FAST-41 permitting process. This program aims to streamline federal environmental reviews by improving agency coordination and setting two-year completion goals. The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) praised this provision for fostering a more efficient and predictable regulatory environment.
Reducing Foreign Dependence
By standardizing the criteria for identifying critical minerals, the legislation encourages domestic mining, refining, and recycling to reduce reliance on foreign imports.
The bill now heads to the Senate for approval, marking a crucial step toward securing a stable supply of materials critical to energy security, manufacturing, and the nation’s clean energy goals.
