Measure to Spur Action on Critical Minerals Advances to Senate

The House passed a measure Wednesday to require the Energy Department to assess the US supply of critical energy resources, including fuel materials, as lawmakers worry over China’s share of the market.

The chamber voted 223-206 for the bill (H.R. 3617; BGOV Bill Analysis) that would direct DOE to ensure an “adequate and reliable” supply of critical energy resources such as cobalt and lithium, in the US, and mitigate energy supply chain disruptions.

The US obtains most of its critical minerals from other countries, including China. The materials are mined and processed for use in a plethora ...