H.R. 9640 is a bill introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives on July 9, 2026, aiming to extend the Earth Mapping Resources Initiative (Earth MRI). This initiative, managed by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), focuses on mapping and analyzing the United States' geological resources, particularly critical minerals essential for the economy and national security. The bill seeks to continue and enhance efforts in geological, geochemical, and geophysical mapping, as well as mine waste research, to better understand and utilize these vital resources.
Supporters of H.R. 9640 highlight its potential to bolster domestic supply chains for critical minerals, reducing reliance on foreign sources. The bill is seen as a strategic move to strengthen national security and economic stability by investing in comprehensive geological mapping and resource assessment. Proponents argue that continued funding for Earth MRI will lead to technological innovations and economic development by identifying new mineral resources within the U.S.
Critics of H.R. 9640 express concerns over the allocation of federal funds, questioning whether the investment in Earth MRI will yield significant returns. Some argue that the focus on mineral mapping may divert resources from other pressing environmental and scientific initiatives. Additionally, there are apprehensions about the potential environmental impact of increased mining activities that could result from identifying new mineral deposits.
While there are no direct industry overlaps between the sponsor Robert Wittman's top donor industries and the subject matter of H.R. 9640, there is notable lobbying activity in the infrastructure and mapping sectors. For instance, the American Concrete Institute contributed $80,000 via Crossroads Strategies, which indicates a vested interest in infrastructure-related legislation. Additionally, Anne Pramaggiore's $60,000 contribution suggests a significant influence in this policy area. Although these contributions do not directly correlate with the bill's focus on the Earth Mapping Resources Initiative, the substantial amounts involved raise questions about potential influence on the bill's outcomes. Voters should be aware that while direct conflicts are absent, the lobbying presence indicates a potential for indirect influence.
Organizations that lobbied on issues related to this bill's policy area.
| Client | Lobbying Firm | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| AMERICAN CONCRETE INSTITUTE | CROSSROADS STRATEGIES, LLC | $80,000 |
| ANNE PRAMAGGIORE | CROSSROADS STRATEGIES, LLC | $60,000 |
| SIGHTLINE INTELLIGENCE | C2 STRATEGIES | $50,000 |
| ACTUS ADVANCED SYSTEMS | C2 STRATEGIES | $40,000 |
| WASHOE COUNTY | PORTER GROUP, LLC | $30,000 |
| VETERANS ASSOCIATION OF REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS, INC. | C2 STRATEGIES | $30,000 |
| EO SOLUTIONS LLC | PORTER GROUP, LLC | $20,000 |
| WASHOE COUNTY REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION | PORTER GROUP, LLC | $20,000 |
| ULINE | BROYDRICK & ASSOCIATES | $20,000 |
| RTC SOUTHERN NEVADA | PORTER GROUP, LLC | $10,000 |
| WISH | BROYDRICK & ASSOCIATES | undisclosed |
| WISCONSIN STATE CRANBERRY GROWERS ASSOCIATION | BROYDRICK & ASSOCIATES | undisclosed |
| WISCONSIN CRANBERRY RESEARCH AND EDUCATION FOUNDATION | BROYDRICK & ASSOCIATES | undisclosed |
| WISCONSIN CRANBERRY RESEARCH AND EDUCATION FOUNDATION | BROYDRICK & ASSOCIATES | undisclosed |
| WD SCHORSCH LLC | BROYDRICK & ASSOCIATES | undisclosed |
Source: Senate Lobbying Disclosure Act (LDA) filings, 2026
Top industries funding Robert Wittman, ranked by total contributions.
Source: OpenSecrets.org (Center for Responsive Politics)
