Utah lawmakers are laying the groundwork to expand the state’s role in producing critical minerals used in technologies like semiconductors, energy systems, and defense equipment. State leaders say Utah contains about 50 of the nation’s 60 recognized critical minerals, giving it one of the most diverse mineral resources in the country. A new law creates a statewide strategy and advisory council aimed at boosting mining and processing while also exploring ways to recover minerals from coal and copper mining waste.
Energy Fuels operates the White Mesa Mill near Blanding, Utah, the only conventional uranium mill still operating in the United States. The facility processes uranium and possible rare earth minerals used in magnets and batteries, but it has also drawn long-running protests from nearby tribal residents over radioactive waste and environmental concerns.
As part of the broader strategy, state officials are also proposing a new Minerals for Industrial, National, and Economic Security Center, or MINES Center, which they hope could eventually receive federal recognition as a national laboratory. The facility would bring together researchers, industry, and government to develop new extraction technologies and strengthen domestic supply chains for critical minerals.
