DNR seeks $45,000 to fund critical-minerals report mandated by SB118

Juneau — The Department of Natural Resources informed the House Finance DNR subcommittee on Feb. 24 that it is requesting $45,000 in unrestricted general funds in the governor's amended FY2026 budget to fund a report required by Senate Bill 118.

The report, as described by DNR, directs the Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys to compare Alaska's production of critical and essential minerals to national and global production, consult with relevant state and federal agencies, the University of Alaska, industry and advocacy organizations, and identify strategies and timelines to increase state production over 3-, 5- and 10-year horizons. The report is also to compare permitting timelines and exploration incentives with other jurisdictions.

Deputy Commissioner John Crowther said the department has "significant mineral assessment capabilities" but had not yet begun the specific report because it was awaiting the budget item. "We have not yet begun on this particular report because we've been waiting to have the item passed through the budget," Crowther said. He said work could begin as soon as the funds are technically available for FY2026.

The subcommittee's questions focused on whether any assessment work had already been started and how the fiscal note tied to SB118 was handled in the baseline budget. Crowther explained that while the fiscal note accompanied the bill when it passed, the timing of enactment meant the fiscal note was not incorporated into the baseline; the amended budget item brings those anticipated funds into the FY2026 budget.