H.R.4018 - To unleash America’s offshore critical minerals and resources. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.4018, the "To unleash America’s offshore critical minerals and resources" bill, aims to promote the development of seabed mineral resources within the United States' jurisdiction and in cooperation with allies. The bill mandates expedited processes for issuing licenses and permits for seabed mineral exploration and commercial recovery under existing laws, such as the Deep Seabed Hard Mineral Resources Act and the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act. It also requires the development of a seabed mapping plan and engagement with key partners and allies to support seabed mineral resource development.
Expected Effects
The bill's enactment would likely lead to increased domestic exploration and extraction of critical minerals from seabed resources. This could reduce reliance on foreign suppliers, particularly adversaries, for these minerals. It could also foster technological advancements in seabed mining and processing.
Potential Benefits 4/5
- Enhanced national security by securing domestic sources of critical minerals.
- Economic growth through the development of a new industry and job creation.
- Reduced dependence on foreign suppliers for critical minerals.
- Technological advancements in deep sea exploration and mining.
- Strengthened partnerships with allies through collaborative resource development.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential environmental damage to marine ecosystems from seabed mining activities.
- Possible conflicts with existing international agreements regarding seabed resource management.
- Risk of prioritizing resource extraction over environmental protection.
- Uncertainty regarding the long-term economic viability of seabed mining.
- Potential for disputes with other nations over resource rights.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment 4/5
The bill appears to align with the General Welfare Clause (Article I, Section 8) by promoting economic growth and national security through resource development. The Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8) also supports congressional authority to regulate seabed mineral resources, particularly those involving interstate and international commerce. The bill's focus on international partnerships aligns with the President's power to conduct foreign policy (Article II, Section 2).
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to citizens. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).