AI-assisted analysis based on the official CRS summary. Source version: Sep 11, 2026. Analysis updated: Sep 19, 2026.
01 — The Text
What.
- Establishes statutory authority for an EPA program to investigate and support recovery of critical materials from contaminated sites
- Defines critical materials as non-fuel minerals/elements designated by the Department of Energy as having high supply chain disruption risk, or designated as critical minerals by the U.S. Geological Survey
- Authorizes EPA to provide assistance (grants, awards, etc.) to persons, nonprofits, and state/local/tribal entities for critical material recovery projects
- Caps annual aggregate assistance at $10 million per fiscal year, with no single recipient receiving more than $3 million
- Program terminates after 10 years
02 — The Stakes
So what?
- The program creates a mechanism to address both environmental remediation and domestic supply chain resilience for critical materials used in energy technologies
- Spending limits are specified in statute, constraining program scale
- Automatic sunset provision ensures the program does not continue indefinitely without congressional reauthorization
- No documented effects on contaminated site remediation timelines, critical material prices, or supply chain outcomes are established in the summary
03 — The Path
Now what?
- House passed the bill by voice vote on September 15, 2026, under suspension of rules
- The bill was reported by the Committee on Energy and Commerce on September 14, 2026
- Committee markup approved the bill 48-0 on July 21
- No subsequent legislative action is documented
Legislative History
Actions.
- Sep 15, 2026 — Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
- Sep 15, 2026 — On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by voice vote.
- Sep 15, 2026 — Passed/agreed to in House: On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by voice vote.
- Sep 15, 2026 — DEBATE - The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 9616.
- Sep 15, 2026 — Considered under suspension of the rules.
- Sep 15, 2026 — Mr. Guthrie moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill.
- Sep 14, 2026 — Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 720.
- Sep 14, 2026 — Reported by the Committee on Energy and Commerce. H. Rept. 119-821.