Interior Seeks to Loosen Outer Continental Shelf Mining Rules

The Interior Department is looking to limit regulations for developing mineral resources in the Outer Continental Shelf in order to promote “economic competitiveness.”

“America cannot afford to sit on the sidelines while the world races to secure critical mineral supply chains,” Matt Giacona, acting director of Interior’s Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, said in a statement Monday.

“Offshore critical minerals are foundational to our defense systems, advanced manufacturing, and energy technologies,” he said.

The proposed rulemaking—scheduled to be published Tuesday—would affect “hard minerals,” which excludes oil, gas, and sulfur. The comment period will be open for 60 days, ending ...