To oppose the permitting of deep seabed mining and exploration for deep seabed mining, and for other purposes.

Key Points

• Rep. Case and a group of House members introduced a bill to stop the U.S. from supporting deep-sea mining in international waters. The bill calls for a "moratorium," which is a temporary ban, on all new mining and exploration projects on the ocean floor.
• Supporters of the bill argue that we don't know enough about the deep ocean to mine it safely. They are concerned that digging for minerals could kill unique sea creatures, create massive clouds of underwater dust that harm fish, and interfere with how the ocean stores carbon.
• If passed, the bill would require U.S. officials to use their influence in international organizations to block any funding or permits for these projects. This opposition would stay in place until a global group creates strict, science-based rules that guarantee the environment is protected.

Impact Analysis

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