ACS Endorses Critical Materials Future Act
October 23, 2024
The Honorable John Hickenlooper
United States Senate
374 Russell Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
Dear Senator Hickenlooper:
On behalf of the American Chemical Society (ACS), I am writing to express our strong support for S. 5251, the Critical Materials Future Act of 2024. We commend your leadership in introducing this vital legislation, which addresses the urgent need to secure and develop critical materials essential to U.S. scientific, technological, and economic leadership.
The ACS, representing a global membership community of 200,000 from all fields of chemistry and chemical engineering, recognizes the pivotal role that critical materials—such as rare earth elements, lithium, and other minerals—play in advancing a wide range of technologies, including renewable energy, electric vehicles, telecommunications, and national defense. The global demand for these materials is increasing, and the U.S. must take proactive steps to ensure a stable, sustainable, and secure supply chain to support innovation and maintain economic competitiveness.
S. 5251 presents a comprehensive framework to enhance the nation’s capabilities in critical materials processing. By supporting innovative domestic processing, this legislation will significantly reduce our dependence on foreign sources and enhance energy and national security. We are particularly encouraged by the bill’s emphasis on a diversity of critical materials, as what works for one category of materials may not work for others.
The ACS stands ready to collaborate with you and other stakeholders as this bill advances through Congress. By ensuring access to critical materials, we will not only strengthen national security but also empower U.S. researchers and industries to lead in the global transition to a sustainable energy future.
Thank you for your continued leadership on this important issue. Please do not hesitate to contact us if we can provide further assistance or expertise.
Sincerely,
Anthony Pitagno
CC:
The Honorable Lindsey Graham
The Honorable Todd Young
The Honorable Chris Coons
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