Bipartisan lawmakers are trying to give the president more authority to make trade deals to bolster the nation’s supply of minerals that can be used in the technology, low-carbon energy and weapons sectors.
The bill, from Sens. Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Chris Coons (D-Del.), seeks to expand the authority of the executive branch to make trade agreements for minerals that are considered “critical” by the federal government, as well as other rare earth metals.
The legislation, which was first shared with The Hill, excludes China, which is a leading producer and refiner of many such materials.
In a press release, the lawmakers’ offices argued that China’s control over these supply chains creates security threats, and said that more free trade agreements would bolster U.S. security.
“Negotiating more trade agreements on critical minerals with trusted partners will help shore up our supply of these resources, protect American interests, and strengthen our national security,” Young said in a written statement.
Even if the legislation passes, President-elect Trump’s administration may not seek out any free trade deals. Trump has been critical of China, but has also said he would put tariffs on U.S. allies like Canada and Mexico.
