Bill would direct U.S. to push for deep seabed mining pause abroad
In committeeH.R. 663Latest action
Sponsor: Ed Case · Representative · HI
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Official title: To oppose the permitting of deep seabed mining and exploration for deep seabed mining, and for other purposes.
119th Congress
Topics: Environment & energy
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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HR 663 would require U.S. diplomats to oppose deep seabed mining permits internationally until binding, science-backed rules exist.
55-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
HR 663 directs the president to instruct U.S. representatives at international organizations to advocate for a moratorium on permits for deep seabed mining and exploration. The pause would remain in place until the International Seabed Authority establishes binding rules grounded in solid science and the president certifies to Congress that those rules genuinely protect the ocean environment.
Who does it affect?
U.S. diplomats are the most directly affected, as the bill shapes how they vote and speak at international forums. Mining companies seeking to extract minerals such as manganese, cobalt, and nickel from the ocean floor would also be affected, as would fishing communities, coastal residents, and indigenous peoples identified in the bill as groups the rules are meant to protect.
Why does it matter?
Scientists do not yet fully understand what damage deep seabed mining could cause, including destruction of rare ocean species, large sediment clouds, noise harm to sea life, contamination of fish, and disruption of how the deep ocean stores carbon. Because that scientific understanding is seen as incomplete, the bill holds that no mining should proceed until stronger international protections are in place.
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Where does it stand?
- IntroducedJan 23, 2025
- House committeeYou are here · Feb 4, 2025
- House vote
- Senate
- The president's desk
Right now: a House committee is reviewing it. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR E86-87)