A “critical mineral” is any mineral, element, substance or material designated as critical by the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the director of the U.S. Geological Survey.
The Energy Act of 2020 defines a “critical material” as any non-fuel mineral, element, substance or material that the Secretary of Energy determines has a high risk of supply chain disruption; and serves an essential function in one or more energy technologies, including technologies that produce, transmit, store and conserve energy – or a “critical mineral” as defined by the Secretary of the Interior.
It may not be as sexy as lithium, uranium, graphite or potash, but cement is surely a critical material.
Now, Rep. Ryan Mackenzie (R-Pa.) has authored a letter to President Trump advocating for an executive order (EO) to support the domestic cement industry. Specifically, Rep. Mackenzie has requested that the EO designate cement as a Critical National Security Material and require federal agencies to prioritize the use of domestically produced cement in federal procurement and federally assisted infrastructure projects, consistent with Buy American laws.
This is a wise move and one that should also include construction aggregates.
“Here in Pennsylvania, we understand the critical importance of our local cement industry,” said Mackenzie. “Cement suppliers across the commonwealth are helping to build America, empower our workforce, and defend our national security interests. That’s why I’ve asked President Trump to double down on the success of the cement industry by declaring cement to be a Critical National Security Material. It’s time to unleash the full economic potential of one of our nation’s most critical building materials.”
Sean O’Neill, senior vice president of government affairs at the American Cement Association, commented, “The American Cement Association applauds Rep. Mackenzie for his strong leadership and commitment to American manufacturing. Cement is the foundation of our nation’s infrastructure, economy and national security – and federal recognition of that fact is long overdue.”
We applaud this effort and back it 100%.
Mark S. Kuhar, editor
mkuhar@semcopublishing.com
(330) 722‐4081
