Domestic ORE Act

The Domestic Opportunities for Resource Exploration Act (Domestic ORE Act) would establish a simplified notice process for mineral exploration activities on federal public lands. Under current regulations, exploration activities disturbing more than 5 acres require extensive environmental reviews. This bill would expand that threshold to 25 acres, allowing operators to proceed with exploration by simply submitting a notice to the relevant federal agency (either the Interior Department or Agriculture Department) at least 15 days before starting work, provided they submit required information and financial assurance for reclamation costs.

The bill would codify existing regulatory definitions related to mineral exploration into federal law. Exploration activities covered include sampling, drilling, and test excavations to evaluate mineral deposits, but exclude commercial extraction. The relevant federal secretary would have 15 days to review submitted notices and either approve the activity or request additional information. Supporters argue this would reduce regulatory delays and encourage domestic mineral exploration, while the bill maintains environmental safeguards through financial assurance requirements and existing reclamation standards.