The Nickel Report

On September 18, 2025, the California State Mining and Geology Board (SMGB) voted to initiate pre-rulemaking activities to define the term “critical mineral” under state regulations. According to the Board’s agenda materials, the definition is intended to support California’s clean-energy transition and provide clearer guidance to local agencies and planners engaged in permitting mining projects. 

On August 13, 2025, the Department of Energy (DOE) announced its intent to issue notices of funding opportunities (NOFOs) totaling nearly $1 billion to support enhancing and expanding technologies for mining, processing, and manufacturing at crucial points in the supply chains of critical minerals and materials. This announcement follows the Unleashing American Energy executive order issued in January 2025, previously summarized here. DOE’s NOFOs are intended to support the establishment of a more reliable, stable, and cost-effective supply of critical minerals and materials, which the agency considers fundamental for maintaining America’s energy dominance, safeguarding US national security, and boosting US industrial competitiveness.

On March 20, 2025, President Trump signed an executive order titled Immediate Measures to Increase American Mineral Production identifying immediate actions to boost the production of critical minerals within the United States. This executive order builds on the Unleashing American Energy executive order issued on January 20, 2025, which emphasized, among other things, a priority to establish the United States’ position as the leading producer and processor of non-fuel minerals, including rare earth minerals. This executive order outlines concrete steps to facilitate domestic mineral production and processing as part of a broader strategy to enhance national security, reduce reliance on foreign mineral supplies, reduce regulatory barriers, and promote domestic job creation and industry.

On March 20, 2025, President Donald J. Trump issued an Executive Order calling for immediate measures to increase American mineral production. The order outlines several initiatives to streamline permitting processes and prioritize domestic mineral production projects.