United States Legal Gold and Mining Partnership Act

This bill creates a long-term U.S. plan to curb illegal gold mining in the Western Hemisphere. It aims to protect forests and water, cut toxic mercury use, and stop criminal groups from making money off illegal gold, while helping small‑scale miners move into the legal economy.

The plan would be led by the State Department with other U.S. agencies and partner governments. It would boost law enforcement and anti‑money‑laundering work, fight cross‑border smuggling of gold and harmful chemicals, and build traceable, responsible gold supply chains. It also looks to Switzerland’s Swiss Better Gold Initiative for best practices, sets up certification for responsibly mined gold, and connects responsible sellers with U.S. companies.

It requires a classified briefing on Venezuela’s illicit gold within 90 days, directs coordinated financial investigations, and allows targeted penalties against Venezuelan officials and others who launder illicit gold. It also urges the U.S. to rally support through global development banks and calls out Nicaragua’s illicit gold trade, allowing U.S. punitive measures to disrupt it.

Up to $10 million is authorized to carry out the strategy in fiscal years 2025–2026. The strategy is due within 180 days of enactment, with updates every six months for three years.

• Who is affected: Small‑scale gold miners and communities near mines; U.S. agencies; U.S. companies that buy gold; and criminal networks tied to illegal gold.
• What changes: A U.S. strategy to deter illegal mining in protected areas; stronger enforcement and anti‑money‑laundering actions; responsible‑sourcing and certification programs; targeted penalties and investigations focused on Venezuela; steps to disrupt illicit gold from Nicaragua.
• When: Strategy due in 180 days; classified Venezuela briefing in 90 days; progress updates every six months for three years; funding covers FY 2025–2026.