The Save Oak Flat from Foreign Mining Act, also known as H.R. 6391, aims to protect a sacred Native American site from being turned into a massive copper mine by foreign companies. This bill seeks to reverse a previous decision that allowed the land to be transferred for mining, preserving it for cultural, environmental, and recreational purposes.
What This Bill Does
H.R. 6391 proposes to repeal a section of a 2015 law that allowed a land swap, giving 2,422 acres of the Tonto National Forest, including Oak Flat, to foreign mining companies. This area is not only a beautiful natural space but also holds deep cultural and spiritual significance for several Native American tribes. The bill would stop the mining project and return the land to public management under the Forest Service.
The bill recognizes Oak Flat as a sacred site for tribes like the San Carlos Apache, who use it for traditional ceremonies. It also highlights the environmental risks of the proposed mining method, which could create a massive crater and a toxic waste site. By halting the mining project, the bill aims to prevent these environmental impacts and protect the land for future generations.
In addition to cultural and environmental concerns, the bill addresses national security issues. It points out that the copper extracted from this mine would be controlled by foreign companies, potentially benefiting other countries' economies more than the United States. By keeping the land under U.S. control, the bill aims to safeguard national resources.
Why It Matters
This bill is significant because it protects a site that is sacred to many Native American tribes, ensuring their religious freedoms are respected. For these communities, Oak Flat is more than just land; it's a place of cultural heritage and spiritual importance. Preserving it means honoring their traditions and rights.
For everyday Americans, the bill also addresses environmental concerns. The proposed mine would use a vast amount of water in a state already facing severe droughts, potentially affecting water availability and prices for local residents. Additionally, the environmental damage from the mine could lead to costly cleanups, impacting taxpayers.
The bill also has implications for national security and the economy. By preventing foreign companies from controlling a significant U.S. copper source, it aims to keep valuable resources within the country, potentially affecting the prices of everyday items like electronics and cars.
Key Facts
- Cost/Budget Impact: There are no direct costs associated with the bill, as it voids a previous land swap without new funding.
- Timeline for Implementation: If passed, the repeal would take immediate effect, stopping the land transfer and mine permits.
- Number of People Affected: The bill impacts Native American tribes, environmental and recreational users, and Arizona residents.
- Key Dates: Introduced on December 3, 2025, in the 119th Congress.
- Environmental Impact: The proposed mine would create a 2-mile-wide, 1,000-foot-deep crater and a large toxic waste site.
- Water Usage: The mine would use 250 billion gallons of groundwater, exacerbating drought conditions in Arizona.
- Cultural Significance: Oak Flat is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as a Traditional Cultural Property.
Arguments in Support
- Cultural Preservation: Supports argue that the bill respects Native American tribes' religious freedoms by preserving a sacred site.
- Environmental Protection: The bill prevents environmental destruction from mining, including the creation of a massive toxic waste site.
- Water Security: It safeguards Arizona's scarce water resources, which are crucial during ongoing droughts.
- National Security: By keeping copper resources within the U.S., the bill aims to protect national interests and the economy.
- Legislative Integrity: It reverses a previous decision made without adequate public and tribal consultation.
Arguments in Opposition
- Economic Impact: Critics might argue that the mine could create jobs and boost local economies through copper production.
- Resource Development: Some believe that utilizing the copper resources could benefit the U.S. economy in the long run.
- Investment Concerns: Opponents may worry about the loss of investment from the halted mining project.
- Global Competition: There are concerns that not developing these resources could put the U.S. at a disadvantage globally.