Indy Standard

U.S. Senators Todd Young, Chris Coons, John Cornyn, and John Hickenlooper have reintroduced the Securing Trade and Resources for Advanced Technology, Economic Growth, and International Commerce (STRATEGIC) in Minerals Act. The bill aims to enhance America's supply chain of critical minerals and rare earth elements.

The legislation is designed to address the vulnerabilities in the supply chain of these essential resources, which are currently susceptible to disruptions. China's influence over these materials poses significant threats to national and economic security. The proposed act would enable the president to negotiate sector-specific free trade agreements focused on critical minerals with trusted partners. This initiative seeks to improve cooperation, lower trade barriers, and strengthen national security.

Senator Young emphasized the importance of securing these resources for consumer goods and defense technologies: “Our nation depends on critical minerals for everything from consumer goods to defense technologies, and relying on foreign adversaries for these materials is a national security vulnerability we cannot afford.”

Senator Coons added that maintaining resilient supply chains requires strong international partnerships: “If America is to remain a superpower, we need resilient supply chains for critical minerals— and that means strong relationships with reliable trading partners around the world.”

Highlighting the risks posed by China’s dominance in this area, Senator Cornyn stated: “China dominates the critical minerals supply chain, which leaves America vulnerable to national security risks.” He further noted that enhancing America's supply chain would boost competitiveness globally.

Senator Hickenlooper pointed out the significance of these resources for future innovation: “Critical minerals are key to our clean energy future and American innovation.”

The STRATEGIC Minerals Act was first introduced in 2024 as part of ongoing efforts by Senator Young to secure access to critical mineral supply chains while countering China's industry practices.