On June 4, 2024, the Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources conducted a legislative hearing on three bills aimed at enhancing access to and development of minerals crucial for everyday use and national security. Subcommittee Chairman Pete Stauber (R-Minn.) issued a statement emphasizing the importance of these resources.

"As demand for critical minerals is expected to outstrip global supply in the near future, it is absolutely vital to ensure the United States has ample access to these resources on which we all rely. That’s why I am happy that the Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources took a closer look at legislation to ensure our federal agencies are more coordinated when designating what minerals should go on the Critical Minerals List, which will not only benefit the American economy but also help secure our strategic national security," Stauber stated.

The hearing focused on three key pieces of legislation:

H.R. 6395, Recognizing the Importance of Critical Minerals in Healthcare Act of 2023, introduced by U.S. Rep. John Curtis (R-Utah), seeks to amend the Energy Act of 2020. The bill requires the Secretary of the Interior to include consultations with the Secretary of Health and Human Services regarding designations of critical minerals, elements, substances, and materials important in healthcare.

H.R. 8446, introduced by U.S. Rep. Juan Ciscomani (R-Ariz.), proposes amendments to the Energy Act of 2020 to incorporate critical material into the definition of critical mineral. This legislation aims for better harmonization between lists compiled by both the Department of Energy (DOE) and United States Geological Survey (USGS).

H.R. 8450, Phosphate and Potash Protection Act of 2024, introduced by U.S. Rep Kat Cammack (R-Fla.), directs the Secretary of the Interior, in consultation with the Secretary of Agriculture, to reevaluate potash and phosphate for designation as critical minerals.