President Donald J. Trump has signed a proclamation that provides a two-year reprieve from an environmental rule affecting the primary copper smelting industry. The rule, implemented during the Biden administration, imposed strict regulations on copper smelting operations.
According to the announcement, the move is intended to support national security and economic resilience by easing restrictions on an industry described as vital to the United States. The administration argues that the current regulations hinder domestic mineral and metal supply chains, impacting both economic performance and national security.
"President Trump recognizes that overly restrictive environmental regulations undermine America’s mineral and metal supply chains, economic vitality, and national security," the statement said.
The administration maintains that its approach aims to balance environmental concerns with economic interests. "President Trump has consistently prioritized a pragmatic approach, ensuring environmental policies support, rather than undermine, America’s economic strength and national security," the proclamation stated.
The temporary regulatory relief is expected to allow copper smelters to operate with fewer restrictions, with the stated goal of strengthening domestic production capacity for critical materials.
