Senate bill tracks foreign mineral supplies to cut adversary dependence

What does this do?

S 789 directs the Secretary of the Interior to produce a detailed report every two years on where critical minerals and rare earth elements are located globally, who controls them, how much is being mined, and whether hostile foreign governments or companies have influence over those supplies. The bill also creates a process to help U.S. companies sell ownership stakes in foreign mines to buyers not connected to foreign adversaries. Additionally, it directs the government to build a strategy with allied countries to develop and share technology for mining, refining, and recycling these minerals.

Who does it affect?

Government officials responsible for producing the reports, U.S. companies involved in mining or mineral processing abroad, and policymakers who use this information are most directly affected. More broadly, the bill targets American dependence on adversary nations for materials critical to the U.S. economy and military.

Why does it matter?

Critical minerals such as neodymium, lithium, and cobalt are used in electric vehicles, smartphones, and military equipment, making their supply chains a point of strategic vulnerability. The bill would create new reporting obligations and coordination requirements for government agencies and private companies operating in this space.

Where does it stand?