H.R.755 - Critical Mineral Consistency Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 755, the Critical Mineral Consistency Act of 2025, aims to amend the Energy Act of 2020 by including critical materials in the definition of critical minerals. This bill directs the Secretary of Energy to update the list of critical minerals to include materials designated as critical within 45 days of such determination. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on January 28, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Natural Resources.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill, if enacted, would be to streamline the process of designating and listing critical materials, ensuring that the list of critical minerals reflects the most current assessments by the Secretary of Energy. This could lead to increased investment and development in the critical materials sector. It may also impact industries that rely on these materials, potentially affecting supply chains and manufacturing.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced Resource Security: By ensuring a consistent definition of critical minerals and materials, the bill could improve the nation's resource security.
- Investment and Development: The bill could stimulate investment and development in the critical materials sector.
- Streamlined Regulations: The bill could streamline the regulatory process for industries that rely on these materials.
- Supply Chain Resilience: A more consistent definition could bolster supply chain resilience for critical materials.
- Economic Growth: The bill could contribute to economic growth by supporting industries that rely on critical materials.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for Overreach: Broadening the definition of critical minerals could lead to overregulation or unintended consequences.
- Administrative Burden: Updating the list of critical minerals frequently could create an administrative burden for the Secretary of Energy.
- Industry Disruption: Changes in the list of critical minerals could disrupt industries that rely on these materials.
- Environmental Concerns: Increased mining and processing of critical materials could have negative environmental impacts.
- Geopolitical Implications: The bill could exacerbate geopolitical tensions related to the supply of critical materials.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) of the U.S. Constitution, which grants Congress the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations and among the several states. By addressing critical minerals and materials, the bill aims to ensure a stable supply chain, which directly impacts interstate and international commerce. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).