Earth MRI Reauthorization Act of 2026

Bill Number

H.R. 9640

Origin Chamber

House

Congress

119th Congress, Session 2

Status

Introduced

Latest Action

2026-07-09: Referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources.

Last Updated

2026-07-11T14:09:55Z

AI-Generated Summary

Summary of H.R. 9640: Earth MRI Reauthorization Act of 2026

Purpose

This legislation amends the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to reauthorize and expand the Earth Mapping Resources Initiative (Earth MRI), a program focused on mapping subsurface resources such as critical minerals. It aims to support updated data collection methods and integration with other federal programs.

Key Provisions

• Expanded Scope of Mapping: Updates the program's purpose to include data from modern technologies, such as advanced geophysical methods, digital geochemistry, real-time data systems, and analytical tools for assessing critical minerals, geothermal energy, natural hydrogen, and other subsurface resources.
• Data Integration: Requires the inclusion of the U.S. Geological Survey's 3D Hydrography Program as an additional data source alongside existing ones.
• Funding Extension: Authorizes an additional $84,000,000 for the program over fiscal years 2027 through 2031, building on prior funding for 2022 through 2026.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• Modifies the original Earth MRI provisions in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act by broadening the types of data and technologies allowed.
• Adds a new data integration requirement that was not previously specified.
• Extends the program's authorization period and funding beyond the initial timeframe.

Potential Impacts

• On Government Agencies: Increases responsibilities for the U.S. Geological Survey in data collection, integration, and analysis using newer technologies.
• On Citizens: May indirectly support resource development and environmental assessments by providing more comprehensive public data on subsurface resources.
• On International Relations: Could enhance U.S. knowledge of domestic critical mineral supplies, potentially reducing reliance on foreign sources, though no direct international provisions are included.

Main Stakeholders Affected

• U.S. Geological Survey and other federal agencies involved in resource mapping.
• Industries focused on mining, energy (including geothermal and hydrogen), and resource extraction.
• State and local governments that may use the resulting data for planning.
• Congress, as the body responsible for funding and oversight.

Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications

• The bill operates within existing congressional authority over federal land and resource management, with no apparent constitutional challenges.
• It reflects a bipartisan introduction but remains subject to committee review and potential amendments during the legislative process.

This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.

Sponsor

Rep. Wittman, Robert J. [R-VA-1]

Cosponsors (1)

Rep. Dingell, Debbie [D-MI-6]

Recent Actions

• 2026-07-09: Referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources.
• 2026-07-09: Introduced in House
• 2026-07-09: Introduced in House

Bill Versions

• Earth MRI Reauthorization Act of 2026 — issued 2026-07-09 — PDF (2 pages)