Capital District Times

Washington, D.C. - Congresswoman Elise Stefanik has called on the Department of Defense (DoD) to enhance U.S. critical mineral companies, such as Phoenix Tailings, by accelerating the implementation of Section 152 of the FY24 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This section would enable the DoD to collaborate with companies like Phoenix Tailings to extract rare earth metals essential for strengthening the defense manufacturing sector and military readiness.

Stefanik, who championed the inclusion of Section 152 in the FY24 NDAA, emphasized the urgency of reducing reliance on foreign sources for critical minerals. She highlighted the importance of this provision in securing domestically processed critical minerals and bolstering national security. The Congresswoman's efforts have paved the way for the establishment of a pilot program by Phoenix Tailings at the Barton Hill mine in Moriah, New York, marking a significant step towards domestic rare earth metal processing.

In a letter addressed to DoD Secretary Lloyd Austin, Stefanik underscored the geopolitical implications of China's stringent export controls on critical minerals. She stressed the need for swift action in implementing measures like Section 152 to safeguard U.S. national security interests and ensure a resilient supply chain for defense technology. Stefanik's letter urges the DoD to prioritize the implementation of Section 152, citing its profound economic and national security significance.

By advocating for multiyear procurement contracts for domestically processed rare earths, Stefanik aims to fortify the nation's strategic autonomy and enhance its ability to withstand external threats. The Congresswoman's proactive stance on securing a domestic rare earth metal supply chain reflects a broader commitment to safeguarding America's national security interests for the long term.

For further details, the full letter from Congresswoman Elise Stefanik can be accessed at the following link: [Stefanik Urges DoD to Bolster U.S. Critical Mineral Companies Including Phoenix Tailings](https://stefanik.house.gov/2024/4/stefanik-urges-dod-to-bolster-u-s-critical-mineral-companies-including-phoenix-tailings).