An Act To amend the Mineral Leasing Act for Acquired Lands to make that Act applicable to hardrock minerals.
Summary
H.R. 3872 amends the Mineral Leasing Act for Acquired Lands to include hardrock minerals. This change expands the scope of the Act to cover minerals like base metals, precious metals, industrial minerals, and gemstones found on acquired lands. It excludes coal, oil, gas, and other specified minerals already covered under different regulations.
Expected Effects
The amendment will likely increase mining activity on acquired lands by streamlining the leasing process for hardrock minerals. This could lead to increased revenue for the government and potentially create jobs in the mining sector. However, it may also raise environmental concerns related to mining activities on these lands.
Potential Benefits
- Increased domestic mineral production, potentially reducing reliance on foreign sources.
- Potential for job creation in the mining and related industries.
- Increased revenue for the government through lease payments and royalties.
- Streamlined permitting process for hardrock mineral extraction on acquired lands.
- Potential for economic development in regions with acquired lands containing hardrock minerals.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential environmental damage from increased mining activities, including habitat destruction and water pollution.
- Possible conflicts with existing land uses and stakeholders.
- Increased pressure on infrastructure in areas with new mining operations.
- Potential for increased social and economic disparities if benefits are not distributed equitably.
- Risk of unsustainable mining practices if environmental regulations are not strictly enforced.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Property Clause of the US Constitution (Article IV, Section 3, Clause 2), which grants Congress the power to dispose of and regulate territory or other property belonging to the United States. By amending the Mineral Leasing Act, Congress is exercising its authority to manage federal lands and resources. There are no apparent infringements on individual rights or liberties as defined by the Constitution or its amendments.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).