Hoosier State Today

U.S. Senators Todd Young, Chris Coons, John Cornyn, and John Hickenlooper have reintroduced a bill aimed at fortifying the United States' supply chain of critical minerals and rare earth elements. The legislation, known as the Securing Trade and Resources for Advanced Technology, Economic Growth, and International Commerce (STRATEGIC) in Minerals Act, seeks to address vulnerabilities in these essential resources.

The proposed bill is designed to empower the president to negotiate and enforce free trade agreements that focus exclusively on critical minerals with trusted international partners. This move aims to enhance cooperation, reduce trade barriers, and bolster national security by minimizing reliance on foreign adversaries like China.

"Our nation depends on critical minerals for everything from consumer goods to defense technologies," stated Senator Young. "Negotiating more trade agreements specific to critical minerals with trusted partners will help shore up our supply of these resources."

Senator Coons emphasized the importance of strong relationships with reliable trading partners: "If America is to remain a superpower, we need resilient supply chains for critical minerals." He noted that the STRATEGIC Minerals Act represents Congress's effort to position the U.S. for future technological advancements.

Highlighting national security concerns, Senator Cornyn remarked, "China dominates the critical minerals supply chain, which leaves America vulnerable." He underscored that strengthening America's mineral supply would increase competitiveness and foster trade with allies.

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

The STRATEGIC Minerals Act builds on previous efforts by Senator Young to secure access to critical mineral supply chains and counter China's industry manipulation. The full text of the legislation is available online.