Critical Mineral Brine Extraction Research and Development Act

# Critical Mineral Brine Extraction Research and Development Act (HR 5410) **What the Bill Would Do:** This bill would authorize funding and support for research and development into extracting critical minerals from brine—the salty water found in certain geological formations and industrial processes. Critical minerals are materials essential for modern technology, including batteries, renewable energy systems, electronics, and defense equipment. The bill aims to improve extraction methods, making them more efficient and cost-effective. **Who It Affects:** The bill would primarily benefit technology manufacturers, renewable energy companies, and defense contractors that rely on critical minerals. It would also affect states with brine deposits (particularly in the Southwest), research institutions conducting mineral extraction studies, and potentially consumers by reducing costs of mineral-dependent products.

The U.S. economy broadly would benefit from reducing dependence on foreign sources for these materials. **Current Status:** As of now, HR 5410 remains in committee, meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House. The bill was introduced by Representative David Schweikert (R-Arizona) and has not advanced further in the legislative process.