The National Strategic and Critical Minerals Production Act of 2013approved yesterday by a bi-partisan vote “will establish a streamlined permitting system for US mining and address a key issue for the country’s future economic growth and manufacturing revival,” said a statement released by National Mining Association (NMA) President and CEO Hal Quinn.

“While few countries can rival our abundance of mineral resources, we remain burdened by an antiquated and duplicative permitting system that discourages investment and jeopardizes the growth of downstream industries, related jobs and technological innovation that depend on a secure and reliable mineral supply chain.

“Without compromising our rigorous environmental standards, this bi-partisan legislation carefully addresses the inefficiencies of our underperforming permitting system by incorporating best practices for improving coordination among state and federal agencies, clarifying responsibilities, avoiding duplication, setting timeframes and bringing more accountability to the process.

“Our country’s dependence on mineral imports has doubled over the past 20 years. Today, less than half of the mineral needs of US manufacturing are met from domestically mined minerals. These trends will only get worse if we do not advance policies that enable U.S. mining to perform to its potential.

“Using our country’s minerals responsibly and efficiently is a national priority for strengthening our manufacturing base and the jobs it provides. Other countries are boldly acting to secure use of these minerals. NMA urges continued bi-partisan support for American minerals and this far-sighted legislation.”