SW Arkansas Times

President Donald Trump has signed an Executive Order (EO) aimed at boosting domestic mineral production. The order is designed to reduce reliance on foreign sources for critical minerals and enhance national security by promoting a secure domestic supply chain.

House Committee on Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman expressed his support for the initiative. "For far too long, America has been forced to turn to adversarial nations to meet our critical mineral needs," he stated. "President Trump is leading us to unleash our domestic mineral wealth and mine right here in America once again. With this executive order, President Trump is bolstering our national and mineral security and ensuring our future is tied to a secure, safe and responsible domestic mineral supply chain."

The EO seeks to streamline processes that have previously hindered domestic mining activities. It mandates the National Energy Dominance Council (NEDC) Chair, along with relevant agencies, to identify priority mining projects within ten days of the order's issuance. Additionally, it calls for expedited permits and approvals for these projects.

Furthermore, the Secretaries of Defense, Energy, Interior, and Agriculture are tasked with identifying lands suitable for leasing and development of private commercial mineral production enterprises. These sites should be ready for permitting as soon as possible. Agencies must provide a list of such sites within 30 days and prioritize expedited leasing.

The order also aims to expand project financing opportunities and simplify future project development processes.