Phosphate and Potash Protection Act of 2024

HR 8450, the Phosphate and Potash Protection Act of 2024, directs the Secretary of the Interior (with the Secretary of Agriculture) to evaluate potash and phosphates - minerals essential for fertilizer production - for potential designation as "critical minerals" under federal law. Within 30 days of enactment, the Secretary must assess if these minerals meet the criteria for critical minerals designation, and by 90 days, submit recommendations to support domestic production and a report on the evaluation. If the minerals meet the criteria, they would be added to the official critical minerals list, potentially unlocking federal support for their domestic mining and processing. This bill directly affects mineral producers and the agricultural sector, as critical minerals status can streamline permitting and encourage domestic supply chains for fertilizers.