The House of Representatives passed a bipartisan bill aimed at increasing federal cooperation with allies to produce critical minerals and reduce reliance on China. The legislation, known as the Developing Overseas Mineral Investments and New Allied Networks for Critical Energies Act, was authored by Representatives Young Kim (R-CA) and Ami Bera (D-CA) and passed by voice vote.
The bill directs the U.S. to collaborate with allies to secure critical mineral supply chains and promote domestic production. It proposes the establishment of a Bureau of Energy Security and Diplomacy within the State Department to focus on international energy, critical minerals, and supply chain strategies. Additionally, it would create a special adviser position for the president to oversee critical mineral supply chain efforts.
The new bureau aims to coordinate federal efforts on energy security and critical minerals. The bill also authorizes the State Department to form multiyear energy security agreements with partner countries to diversify supply chains and counter economic coercion. Furthermore, it includes provisions to expand mining and engineering fellowships and workforce development programs.