H.R. 1904 Passed – setting the example for future mining legislation

H.R. 1904, the Southeast Arizona Land Exchange and Conservation Act, was passed in the House on Oct. 27, 2011. The bill aims to free up the available copper sources in Southeast Arizona by exchanging federal and non-federal lands in an open process with a mine developer. The mine developer is responsible for all costs in developing the land, which makes this bill cost the U.S. government close to nothing.

This bill has set the bar for strong negotiation between mining companies and the government. The politicians spearheading the bill see the importance of copper as a natural resource and fostering domestic mineral resource development to strengthen our economy and national security.

H.R. 1904 has the potential to help create $64.1 billion on economic impact for Arizona and create 3,700 jobs for the locals. Not to mention it will fulfill 25% of U.S. copper demand. Currently the U.S. only produces 9% of the world’s copper supply. H.R. 1904 will help raise that percentage, stimulate the economy and decrease our dependency on foreign countries for critical mineral resources.

Copper is in almost every electronic device you use. In a hybrid car alone, there are 99 pounds of copper. Copper is also used in many renewable energy sources such as solar panels & wind turbines. If you need to be reminded of the many uses of copper, please read Mineral Spotlight: Copper and visit CopperMatters.org.

Read the Press Release from the Natural Resources Committee for more specific details on the bill.

Read the draft legislation of H.R. 1904 here.

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