Earth MRI Reauthorization Act of 2026
Key claim: The Earth MRI Reauthorization Act of 2026 (HR9640) would reauthorize the Earth Mapping Resources Initiative and has been referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources.
Abstract
(HR9640 · 119th Congress) Latest action (2026-07-09): Referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources.
Why this matters
Earth MRI underpins domestic geologic mapping for critical minerals, which is the upstream input to U.S. efforts to reduce import reliance and vulnerability to export controls from adversary suppliers. Reauthorization signals continued congressional support for building a domestic resource base that could shift the trade balance in strategic minerals over the long term, though the bill’s introduction status means no near-term change to import flows or tariff exposure.