Senate Passes Bipartisan Mining Schools Act

In a significant move to strengthen the future of the mining industry, the U.S. Senate has unanimously passed the Mining Schools Act of 2023 (S. 912) on July 10, 2024. This bipartisan legislation, introduced by Senator John Barrasso (R-WY) and co-sponsored by a diverse group of senators, aims to address the critical need for a skilled mining workforce in the United States. 
 
The Mining Schools Act establishes a grant program for mining schools at four-year public institutions of higher education, with an annual budget of $10 million authorized from 2024 through 2031. These grants will support student recruitment, studies, research projects, and demonstration projects related to mineral production. Additionally, the act will create the Mining Professional Development Advisory Board to oversee the grant program and ensure effective use of funds. 
 
Senator Barrasso emphasized the importance of this legislation, stating, "The United States cannot afford to be dependent on China, Russia, and other adversaries for minerals. We need access to minerals on federal lands and to reinvigorate America’s mining workforce". The bill now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration. 
 
This act is a crucial step towards securing the nation's energy and mineral security by investing in the education and training of the next generation of mining professionals.