MERICA Act of 2026

Key Points

• This bill, introduced by Senator Cotton, changes how the government manages mining for "hardrock minerals" on certain federal lands. These minerals include things like gold, silver, copper, and the materials used to make batteries for electric cars and electronics.
• Currently, these lands—which the government bought or traded for over the years—have different rules than other public lands. This bill would put these metals under a leasing system, which is the same way the government handles oil and gas drilling on those lands.
• By updating these rules, the bill aims to make it easier for companies to mine for the materials needed for modern technology and renewable energy right here in the United States.
• The new rules would apply to a wide range of materials, including precious metals and industrial metals, but they would not change how the government handles coal, oil, or natural gas.
• Mining companies and industries that rely on high-tech minerals would be the most affected, as this could open up new areas for mineral exploration and change the costs associated with starting a mine.

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