H.R. 9917 (IH) – Department of Defense Critical Materials Act of 2022
Summary:
H.R. 9917 is bipartisan legislation that aims to enhance the Department of Defense’s (DoD) supply chain security for rare earth elements and other strategic and critical materials.
Background:
Rare earth elements are a group of 17 metallic elements that are essential for various high-technology industries, including defense, electronics, and renewable energy. Similarly, strategic and critical materials are vital to the economic and national security of the United States.
Currently, the DoD relies heavily on foreign sources for these materials, making its supply chain vulnerable to disruptions.
Key Provisions:
- Requires DoD contractors to disclose their use of rare earth elements and strategic and critical materials: Contractors must provide this information when submitting bids for defense contracts over a certain value.
- Establishes a database of DoD contractors’ use of these materials: The Secretary of Defense (SecDef) must create this database within six months of enactment.
- Requires the SecDef to develop a strategy to reduce the DoD’s reliance on foreign sources: The strategy must include measures to increase domestic production, diversify suppliers, and establish stockpiles.
- Establishes a working group to identify and address challenges in the supply chain: The working group will consist of representatives from various government agencies and stakeholders.
- Directs the SecDef to report to Congress annually on the implementation of the Act: The report must include information on the progress made in reducing reliance on foreign sources and addressing supply chain challenges.
Benefits:
- Enhances supply chain security: The legislation helps to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities in the DoD’s supply chain for rare earth elements and other critical materials.
- Promotes domestic production: It encourages investment in domestic production of these materials, reducing dependence on foreign sources.
- Strengthens national security: A secure supply chain is crucial for the DoD to maintain readiness and meet its mission objectives.
- Creates economic opportunities: Domestic production of critical materials can create jobs and boost economic growth.
Current Status:
H.R. 9917 was introduced in the House of Representatives on March 16, 2022, and was referred to the House Armed Services Committee. It is currently supported by several bipartisan members.
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