US senators introduce bill to strengthen critical mineral supply chains

…“Critical minerals are the building blocks for advanced technology. From powering our cellphones to our nation’s most advanced weapons systems, they are essential to America’s national security,” Scott said. “ The Critical Mineral Executive Coordination Act supports our efforts to safeguard access to critical minerals, bolstering our national defense, energy security, and economic competitiveness. America’s future should be driven by American strength, and this bill helps make sure the US – not China – leads the way. ” The senators said China controls a majority of rare-earth minerals. Background information accompanying the bill said the Chinese Communist Party controls more than 70 per cent of global rare-earth mining and about 90…

…as leverage during political or trade disputes. “Georgia’s transformative contributions to national defense and technological advancement call for streamlined access to global critical mineral markets,” Warnock said. “ This bipartisan bill addresses alarming vulnerabilities by educating our federal workers and diplomats on the importance of securing our nation’s critical mineral supply chains and how to better support our domestic industries. ” Indian American Congressman Ami Bera and Republican Representative Young Kim introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives. The Senate proposal advances two provisions included in the House-passed…

…mineral partnerships and improve the coordination of diplomatic and financing tools. “Strengthening America’s critical mineral supply chains is essential to our economic and national security,” Bera said. “ I’m encouraged to see the Senate continue the bipartisan work we advanced through the House-passed DOMINANCE Act. I appreciate Senators Scott and Warnock’s leadership in carrying forward key provisions that will strengthen our diplomatic expertise and improve coordination across the federal government. ” Kaine said the United States needed critical minerals to produce chips for uses ranging from smartphones to defence systems. He described the proposed White House position as a critical-minerals “czar” who could…