Indy Standard

U.S. Senators are taking steps to bolster America's mineral security with the introduction of the Finding Opportunities for Resource Exploration (ORE) Act. Senators Todd Young, Chris Coons, John Cornyn, and John Hickenlooper collaborated to advance this legislation aimed at reducing the nation's reliance on foreign critical minerals, particularly from China. The act places emphasis on geological mapping to unlock potential mineral deposits, and partners with allies to support United States mineral needs for sectors such as defense, semiconductors, and automotive.

Senator Young highlighted the necessity for updated geological surveys among countries lacking modern data, stating, “Many countries are unmapped or reliant on outdated geological surveys. Our bill would create opportunities for collaboration between the United States and these countries to update geological mapping with the goal of locating critical mineral deposits." Senator Coons added that the act ensures “our nation will have access to the essential materials we need to keep innovating, growing our economy, and deterring our enemies."

The bill includes measures for the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) to negotiate agreements with foreign countries to promote collaborative mapping of mineral resources. Senator Cornyn remarked, “By shoring up alliances with trusted allies and promoting geological mapping of critical mineral reserves, this legislation would ensure America has the resources needed to keep up with global demand." Senator Hickenlooper spoke on the environmental and security benefits, stating, "Better and more accurate maps will help us and our allies safely and ethically explore untapped critical mineral deposits."

The act is backed by industry voices supporting the strategy to compete globally. Abigail Hunter of SAFE’s Center for Critical Minerals Strategy commented, “This bill changes that. It positions the United States—our geological experts and industry—to help identify and potentially develop the next generation of great deposits." Sarah Venuto of the American Critical Minerals Association said, "Expanding our knowledge base of global minerals resources and growing partnerships with our allies will ensure the United States is a leading force in resourcing critical minerals in a responsible way."

Colorado School of Mines’ Dr. John Bradford supported the proposal with optimism about U.S. expertise in the sector. Michele Stockwell of Bipartisan Policy Center Action and John Mern from Terra AI also expressed their approval, emphasizing the importance of the United States securing its mineral resources. Mern particularly noted, “The act is the essential early stage first step to establishing US global mineral dominance."

A companion bill will be introduced in the House by Representatives Rob Wittman and Kathy Castor. This bipartisan effort underscores the strategic importance of critical minerals for national security and economic stability.