On the recordMarch 29, 2023
We already have a national strategy in critical minerals. The Democratic-passed Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act built on the Energy Policy Act of 2020 to give agencies broad authorities to responsibly decrease reliance on China by diversifying sources, finding substitutes, and, importantly, recycling and reusing, something Republicans often ignore in favor of rushing into new mining. This amendment puts a focus on new mining without essential protections for communities and the environment. Many of the minerals we need for a clean energy transition in the United States are within 35 miles of Tribal land, yet neither this amendment nor the underlying bill addresses the impact of domestic mining on indigenous communities at all. It doesn't address the long- overdue need to reform the Mining Law of 1872. We know there will be increased demand for minerals as we transition to renewable energy. That is why it is essential to reform the mining law, period. {time} 1930 We need to ensure better protections for the environment; a fair return to the American people that royalties be paid, and a seat at the table for Tribal government, as it is dictated in the government-to- government and trust responsibility that Congress holds. Madam Chair, I urge my colleagues to oppose this amendment and instead work on real, meaningful reform to support the clean energy transition. Madam Chair, I reserve the balance of my time.
