WASHINGTON - U.S. Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) today introduced the Mining Regulatory Clarity Act to allow critical mineral production to continue in the West.

This legislation would provide clarity that mine support activities, like waste storage or processing, can proceed on lands that do not contain economically valuable minerals. Recent litigation has upended the long-held interpretation of the Mining Law and, without congressional action, will significantly impede critical mineral production on public lands across the West.

“Domestic mineral production is critical to everyday energy, technology, and national security needs,” said Risch. “For too long, Idaho’s minerals have been tied up in red tape, preventing responsible use of our natural resources. The Mining Regulatory Clarity Act ensures mining projects in Idaho and across the West can proceed and provide invaluable support to our communities and country.” 

“We need to streamline our federal permitting process to unleash the full potential of Nevada’s critical mineral economy,” said Cortez Masto. “I’m continuing my bipartisan push to pass this commonsense bill that will cut red tape, protect mining jobs in Nevada, help support clean energy projects nationwide.”