Finding ORE Act

S 1463, the Finding ORE Act, establishes a process for the U.S. Secretary of the Interior to create memorandums of understanding (MOUs) with partner foreign countries that supply critical minerals or rare earth elements. These MOUs would fund cooperative mapping projects to identify mineral deposits, with key provisions requiring U.S. or allied foreign companies to have first priority for developing these resources and protecting mapping data from unauthorized access by non-allied nations. The bill directly affects partner countries sourcing critical minerals, U.S. institutions of higher education (through training programs), and U.S. private companies seeking mineral development opportunities. It aims to strengthen international supply chains for minerals critical to clean energy technology by facilitating scientific collaboration and private-sector investment. The bill does not create new funding but outlines a framework for federal agencies to coordinate with foreign partners and the private sector.