Advocacy for the mining industry heads to Washington, DC

For the first time in many decades, the mining industry finds itself at the center of some of the most consequential debates taking place in the United States. The conversations around subjects such as energy security, manufacturing competitiveness, national defense, supply chains and economic independence all include the mining industry. For an indsutry that has historically tried to remain out of the news cycle there are benifits and challenges to the newfound fame. Over roughly the past decade — and especially since 2021 — the federal government has committed tens of billions of dollars in loans, grants, tax credits, procurement support and financing authority tied to domestic mining and mineral processing. The government has even taken minority equity stakes in a number of critical mineral projects. While an exact number is difficult to pinpoint, a conservative estimate focused on identifiable project-level support is about $4.9 billion committed to specific mining projects between 2021 and early 2024, according to the Payne Institute for Public Policy report. The loans and investments are welcome news for the industry, but there remains a significant challenge of making sure the money is put to good use and that lawmakers are informed about the realities of the mining industry. Those who are elected to public office do not need to be mining experts, but they do need to have access to correct and factual information about the industry. This is where groups like the Women’s Mining Coalition can help. In May, about 50 women participated in the 2026 Women’s Mining Coalition annual legislative fly-in event to Washington, DC, where they found an audience that was more willing to listen than in the past. “There is definitely greater awareness today about the importance of domestic mining and mineral supply chains,” Lyndsey Wright, executive director of the Women’s Mining Coalition told me. “There is growing recognition, regardless of political party, that mining plays a critical role in meeting America’s energy, infrastructure, manufacturing and national security goals. Members of Congress and their staff are increasingly engaged each year we return to DC and welcome the opportunity to connect with us.” The Women’s Mining Coalition has been traveling to Washington, DC since 1993 to advocate for the mining industry and educate lawmakers. Wright said “one of the most valuable parts of these meetings is the opportunity for our members to share their own stories and experiences working in the mining industry. Those personal conversations help policymakers better understand what modern mining looks like, the challenges the industry faces, and the important role mining plays in supporting everyday life, jobs, energy, manufacturing and national security.” Wright said that this year’s discussions focused on domestic mineral exploration, permitting reform, mineral supply chains, workforce development and policies impacting the mining industry. There was also significant discussion around the need to reestablish the U.S. Bureau of Mines (USBM), which was defunded in 1996. “One of the biggest themes this year was the growing recognition that reestablishing a USBM is both important and necessary,” said Wright. “There is increasing awareness that the U.S. needs a central agency that can create stronger support for mining research, workforce development and domestic mineral exploration as demand for critical minerals continues to grow.” The work of the Women’s Mining Coalition brings the message of mining directly to those who need to hear it most. In addition to the fly-in, the Women’s Mining Coalition established the Women’s Mining Coalition Symposium. “One of our biggest goals this year was launching the Women’s Mining Coalition’s Symposium, and it exceeded all of our expectations,” said Wright. “We had incredible participation from across industry, government and partner trade associations, along with great discussions around the future of domestic mining and mineral development. The energy and engagement throughout the week made it clear that the event was a huge success, and we’re excited to continue building on that momentum moving forward.”

Advocacy for the mining industry heads to Washington, DC

Authored by: William Gleason

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