Calling upon the International Seabed Authority to adopt regulations allowing the collection of critical minerals from the international seabed area, which will enable America to regain reliable and responsible supply chains, provide high-wage jobs for United States citizens, secure supply chains away from the People's Republic of China's dominance of the critical mineral supply chain, and for other purposes.
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Committee
Latest Action · March 15, 2024
Referred to the Committee on Natural Resources, and in addition to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
This resolution calls on the International Seabed Authority, a United Nations organization that regulates ocean floor mining, to adopt regulations by 2025 that would allow the collection of critical minerals from the international seabed, particularly from an area called the Clarion-Clipperton Zone located between Hawaii and Mexico in the Pacific Ocean. The resolution argues that these minerals, which are essential for technology, defense systems, and clean energy, are currently dominated by China, which controls up to 90 percent of global mineral production and refining. The sponsors contend that seabed mining would help the United States develop reliable domestic supply chains, create high-wage jobs, and reduce dependence on China for these vital resources. Although the United States is not a member of the International Seabed Authority, the resolution suggests the country could access these minerals through partnerships with allied nations that are ISA members. The resolution expresses concern that China already holds exploration contracts in the target zone and urges swift action to prevent what it characterizes as an economic opportunity being lost to Chinese interests.
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