In todays divided political climate‚ US mineral supply chain security stands out as a rare meeting-point for both parties. The next term presents a real chance to make things happen
Here are the main steps lawmakers could take:
- More mineral stockpiling (with $600M already approved)
- Better permit process
- Extra funding for projects and schools
- Better supply tracking
- New mining agency creation
The stockpile plan shows promise – its getting full support from both sides‚ with defense committees giving a thumbs-up for next years budget. The idea is to go beyond just defense needs: stockpiles could help US companies during market down-turns
The education part needs work fast. Mining schools are facing tough times – almost 40% fewer students graduated since 2016‚ and thats not good when half of todays miners will retire by the end of this decade. Senator Joe Manchin pushed for changes with his new law that would speed-up project approvals
Defense buying rules need work too; they should track where materials come from (especially those used in ships and weapons). A new version of the old Bureau of Mines – which worked from 1910 til mid-90s – could help run things better. This agency would make permit reviews faster since current offices dont have enough expert staff
The whole plan looks do-able since both Democrats and Republicans want better control over mineral supplies. With everyone mostly agreeing its the best shot at fixing things since the Cold War