H.R. 3059: Streamlining Critical Mineral Permitting Act

This bill, titled the Streamlining Critical Mineral Permitting Act, seeks to amend the Solid Waste Disposal Act to create a new permitting process for facilities that handle critical energy resources. Here’s a breakdown of the key provisions and implications of the bill:

Interim Permits for Critical Energy Resource Facilities

The bill proposes to introduce interim hazardous waste permits specifically for operations classified as **critical energy resource facilities**. This means that these facilities will be able to begin operations while their full permits are being processed. The aim is to streamline the permitting process, making it quicker for these facilities to start functioning.

Definition of Critical Energy Resources

According to the bill, a **critical energy resource** is defined as any energy resource that:

• Is essential to the energy sector and energy systems in the United States.
• Has a supply chain that is at risk of disruption.

This definition serves as the basis for identifying which resources are eligible under the new permitting framework.

Definition of Critical Energy Resource Facilities

A **critical energy resource facility** is described as any facility that processes or refines a critical energy resource. This classification is crucial as it delineates which operations will benefit from the new permitting provisions.

Final Approval Requirement

While the bill allows for interim permits, it also stipulates that these permits are subject to final approval by the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This adds a layer of regulatory oversight, ensuring that the facilities eventually comply with environmental standards.

Objective of the Bill

The primary goal of this legislation is to reduce the time it takes for critical energy resource facilities to obtain necessary permits, thus facilitating a faster response to the increasing demand for critical energy resources in the country. The bill aims to address potential supply chain vulnerabilities in the energy sector relating to the processing and refinement of essential resources.

Relevant Companies

• ALB (Albemarle Corporation) - A leading producer of lithium compounds used in battery technology, which falls under the definition of a critical energy resource.
• NEM (Newmont Corporation) - A large mining company focused on gold and other precious minerals, which could be impacted by changes in mineral permitting processes.
• MP (MP Materials Corp) - Engaged in the production of rare earth materials that are critical to technologies and energy sectors.