The top House Natural Resources Committee Democrat called on Elon Musk and his aides to take a closer look at the nation’s outdated mining laws to generate federal revenue.
Rep. Jared Huffman of California, during a Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources hearing Thursday, said the nation’s mining law from 1872 is “ancient” and lacks any requirement for companies to pay royalties for mining on public lands.
Imposing royalties for mining that mirror what’s required for oil and gas could generate billions for the Treasury and help clean up old, abandoned mines, he said.
“I am hoping, Elon and your tech bros, if you’re listening, maybe find your way to the 1872 law and take a look at that instead of rummaging through our most sensitive personal taxpayer records and all the other things you really shouldn’t have your hands on,” said Huffman to President Donald Trump’s ally, who is leading a government efficiency campaign.
