Mining Regulatory Clarity Act
Sponsor
Mark Amodei
Republican · NV-2
Latest Action · Dec 18, 2025
Received in the Senate.
Bill Progress
Mining Rule Shake-Up Could Spur Boom
Why it matters
This bill could fast-track new hardrock mines and address abandoned mine pollution across the U.S.
The big picture: The Mining Regulatory Clarity Act aims to modernize how hardrock mining is regulated on federal lands. By making it easier for mining companies to use multiple 'mill sites'—the places where mined rock is processed or waste is stored—the bill could speed up new projects for minerals critical to tech, batteries, and industry.
Zoom in: The legislation defines ‘mill sites’ more clearly, and spells out processes for getting approval from federal agencies. At the same time, it creates a special fund to pay for the cleanup of abandoned mines, which often leak toxic metals into local water supplies and communities.
Between the lines: Mining industry groups have long pushed for these changes, arguing that vague and outdated federal rules have held back new investment and mine development. But some environmental groups warn that making it easier to open new mill sites could mean more land disruption and pollution, unless strong guardrails are enforced. The creation of a fund for abandoned mines is widely supported—but details about how much funding will be available, and how sites will be prioritized, are still murky.
What This Bill Does
Allows Multiple Mill Sites
Makes it legal for mining projects to establish and use multiple mill sites on public lands.
Defines 'Mill Site' and 'Plan of Operations'
Gives clear definitions for what counts as a mill site and what plans mining companies must submit to federal agencies.
Creates the Abandoned Hardrock Mine Fund
Establishes a new fund dedicated to cleaning up environmental hazards from old, abandoned hardrock mines.
Streamlines Federal Approvals
Clarifies the roles of the Department of the Interior and the Department of Agriculture in reviewing mining plans.
Links Cleanup to New Mining
Encourages that revenues or processes from new mining help support cleanup of past mining pollution.
Who Benefits
Mining Companies
Face fewer barriers opening new or expanded hardrock mines on federal land.
Tech and Energy Industries
Could gain greater domestic access to minerals like lithium, copper, and rare earth elements.
Nearby Communities (Abandoned Mines)
Stand to benefit from cleanup of polluted and hazardous abandoned mine sites.
Federal Land Management Agencies
Gain clearer rules and processes to follow for both mining approvals and site cleanups.
Who's Affected
Environmental and Conservation Groups
Worry about expanded mining activity and possible threats to public lands.
Western States and Rural Communities
Could see both job growth and potential environmental impacts from increased mining and cleanup activity.
Taxpayers
May be on the hook for mine cleanup costs if the new fund is inadequate or if mining bankruptcies occur.
Outdoor Recreation Users
Public land access and landscapes could change with more mining or cleanup operations.
Cosponsors (2)
Recent Actions
Received in the Senate.
Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
On passage Passed by the Yeas and Nays: 219 - 198 (Roll no. 358). (text of amendment in the nature of a substitute: CR H6044)
Passed/agreed to in House: On passage Passed by the Yeas and Nays: 219 - 198 (Roll no. 358).
On motion to recommit Failed by the Yeas and Nays: 205 - 213 (Roll no. 357).
Considered as unfinished business. (consideration: CR H6069-6070)
POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS - At the conclusion of debate on H.R. 1366, the Chair put the question on motion to recommit and by voice vote announced the noes had prevailed. Ms. Leger Fernandez demanded the yeas and nays and the Chair postponed further proceedings until a time to be announced.
The previous question on the motion to recommit was ordered pursuant to clause 2(b) of rule XIX.
What Changes in the Law
1 changes
Sections Amended
Section 2337 of Revised Statutes of the United States (30 U.S.C. 42)
adding at the end the following: ``(c) Additional Mill Sites
Committees (1)
Contact Your Representatives
Find your legislators and make your voice heard on Mining Regulatory Clarity Act.
Find Your LegislatorsFor Advocacy Organizations
Launch grassroots campaigns that mobilize supporters and move legislators to action.
Get a DemoNews Coverage
3 articles about this bill
Full Bill Text
Open in New TabFull Bill Text
View the complete legislative text on Congress.gov
Source: Congress.gov