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Committee backs critical-minerals strategy and companion resolution after mixed testimony

Utah House Natural Resources, Agriculture, and Environment Standing Committee · March 2, 2026
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Summary

Senators and representatives won committee backing for SB 254 (critical-minerals strategy, permitting acceleration and a proposed mine center) and companion SCR 9 after industry and agency support and public concerns about environmental safeguards and fiscal costs.

The House Natural Resources committee voted to recommend favorably on SB 254 (substitute 1), a broad package designed to accelerate critical-mineral mining and processing in Utah, create a coordinated statewide strategy and establish a "mine center" for research and industry collaboration.

Senator Milner, sponsor of SB 254, said the bill calls for a statewide strategy, expedited permitting targets (she referenced an example estimate of roughly 25% faster permitting with reforms), designation of critical-mineral zones and establishment of a Critical Minerals…

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