WASHINGTON—Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson voted in favor of H.R. 1501, the Protecting Domestic Mining Act, a bill that strengthens America’s mining and mineral processing capabilities by providing regulatory certainty for producers and permitting agencies. The Protecting Domestic Mining Act is sponsored by Rep. Jefferson Shreve (R-IN).

“Reducing our dependence on foreign adversaries for critical mineral production should be one of our top priorities,” said Rep. Simpson. “Under the Biden administration, we depended on sourcing critical minerals from our enemies. I applaud the Trump administration’s efforts to strengthen domestic mining, but it’s well past time for Congress to act and cut bureaucratic red tape. Mining in America is critical for our national security, and we have the resources and workers to mine and produce right here at home.”

The measure was approved with a vote of 218 to 201.