Does America stand for self-reliance and innovative discovery of critical minerals for our economy and national defense and security? Or will Congress drive the fatal stake through the heart of our struggling domestic metals mining industry?

We shall soon find out, as two proposed mining-related “reform” bills introduced in May are winding their way through the legislative process: S.1386 (Hardrock Mining and Reclamation Act) sponsored by Sen. Tom Udall, D-N.M., and the more stringent H.R. 2579 (Hardrock Leasing and Reclamation Act) sponsored by Rep. Raul Grijalva, D-Ariz.