Opinion: Utah Has the Potential to Lead in Critical Minerals

By Sen. Ann Millner & Rep. David Shallenberger
Guest Opinion, Deseret News
Published February 27, 2026

Utah has an opportunity to play an important role in strengthening America’s domestic supply of critical minerals — resources essential to technology, manufacturing, energy and national security.

In this guest opinion, Sen. Ann Millner discusses Utah’s significant critical mineral resources and the steps the state can take to better understand, develop and process those resources. The article highlights the importance of building a stronger domestic supply chain and reducing reliance on foreign sources for minerals that are increasingly important to the modern economy.

Millner discusses SB254, legislation designed to establish a state strategy for critical minerals, create a Critical Minerals Council, identify critical mineral zones and establish the Minerals for Industrial, National, and Economic Security (MINES) Center. The legislation also seeks to bring together Utah’s universities, mining industry, state agencies and economic development resources to support research, innovation and responsible development.

The article emphasizes that Utah’s opportunity extends beyond extracting minerals. Developing processing capabilities, building a skilled workforce and supporting research and innovation could help Utah participate more fully in the critical minerals supply chain.

SB254 also includes provisions intended to improve the permitting process while maintaining environmental requirements. The legislation calls for collaboration among industry, state agencies and academic institutions as Utah develops its critical minerals strategy.

Read the full opinion at Deseret News:
Opinion: Utah Has the Potential to Lead in Critical Minerals

Originally published by Deseret News on February 27, 2026. Written by Sen. Ann Millner & Rep. David Shallenberger