Interior Secretary Doug Burgum announced that mining projects will now receive permit approvals in as little as 28 days, a major reduction from the typical two-year wait.
The move supports President Trump’s goal of reducing U.S. reliance on foreign sources for coal, uranium, and critical minerals.
Burgum emphasized the urgency, calling energy security a matter of national security. The expedited process aims to bypass delays caused by lawsuits and opposition from environmental groups.
This announcement follows Trump’s executive order titled “Immediate Measures to Increase American Mineral Production.” The Federal Permitting Council will track projects through a public dashboard to boost transparency and accountability.
Early projects chosen for fast-tracking include sites for copper, lithium, gold, and potash. Officials say more projects will be added soon to support energy independence and economic growth.
