Mining Schools Act of 2025

This bill would create a new grant program at the Department of Energy to strengthen mining education in the United States. The department, working with the U.S. Geological Survey, could award up to 10 competitive grants each year to “mining schools” to recruit students and improve programs. Grants could support work on safer, cleaner mineral extraction, critical minerals and rare earths, reclaiming mine lands, recycling, and cutting water use and other environmental impacts. The program aims to build a skilled workforce, reduce reliance on foreign mineral supplies, and boost U.S. technology. A six-member advisory board—split between industry and academic experts—would review applications and help the department oversee how funds are used .

Key points:

• Who is affected: Students and colleges with mining, geology, metallurgical, or mineral engineering programs, including some public universities in states with strong mining activity. An advisory board of three industry and three academic members would guide awards .
• What changes: The department will award competitive grants, ensure geographic diversity, and publicly explain if it doesn’t follow the board’s recommendations. Funds can recruit students and support programs in mining efficiency, critical minerals, mine land cleanup, recycling, safer practices, and exploration of new sources. An older mining education law is repealed .
• When: Grants are to be awarded each year, with decisions due within 180 days of the fiscal year start or after full-year funding is enacted. The bill authorizes $10 million per year from fiscal years 2026 through 2033 .