Legislative Activity

The "Stop Giving Big Oil Free Money Act" aims to eliminate royalty exemptions for oil and gas companies operating in the Gulf of Mexico by requiring them to renegotiate existing leases to include royalty payments when oil and gas prices meet certain thresholds. It restricts the issuance of new leases and the transfer of existing leases to companies that have not agreed to these terms. The Act also allows the Secretary of the Interior to modify older leases to include similar price thresholds for royalty suspension provisions, ensuring fair compensation to taxpayers.

The Mining Waste, Fraud, and Abuse Prevention Act of 2025 overhauls the regulation of hardrock mineral mining on federal lands by shifting to a leasing system, introducing new fees and royalties, and protecting sensitive areas. It requires federal agencies to consult with Indian Tribes before commencing mineral-related activities to protect tribal interests and rights. The Act sets environmental standards for hardrock mining, mandating permits and reclamation plans, and establishes a program to reclaim abandoned hardrock mines, funded by fees and royalties. Finally, it ensures responsible mineral extraction through enhanced oversight, regular inspections, and citizen empowerment, promoting transparency and accountability in mining operations on public lands.