Rep. Crane Unveils Bipartisan Initiative to Tackle Abandoned Mines

By Matthew Holloway |

Arizona Congressman Eli Crane (R-AZ02) has introduced the bipartisan Legacy Mine Cleanup Act of 2025, joining forces with Arizona Democrats Rep. Greg Stanton (D-AZ04), Senator Mark Kelly, and Republican Senator Cynthia Lummis of Wyoming. The legislation seeks to codify the Office of Mountains, Deserts, and Plains (OMDP) within the EPA, an initiative established in 2020 during President Donald Trump’s administration.

The OMDP aims to enhance collaboration among federal, state, and tribal agencies concerning hardrock mining cleanup, while ensuring congressional oversight of its operations. Crane emphasized that this codification would encourage the EPA to focus on mine cleanup efforts in Arizona, potentially at the expense of competing green initiatives. The bill also intends to strengthen outreach to local and Tribal authorities, ensuring they have a voice in projects affecting their environments and health.

“As we push for domestic mining of critical minerals, it’s vital to do so responsibly. Poor management can severely affect the health of those in rural Arizona, especially on the Navajo Nation,” said Rep. Crane. He expressed pride in introducing bipartisan legislation aimed at ensuring timely cleanups and increased oversight.

Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren publicly expressed support for the bill on social media, thanking Crane and his colleagues for their efforts. He described the act as essential in addressing the lasting health and environmental impacts of abandoned hardrock mines, particularly for the Navajo people.

Nygren remarked, “This legislation represents accountability and cooperation. By codifying the OMDP, we ensure that Tribal nations have a meaningful say in the cleanup initiatives that directly impact their communities.”

Rep. Stanton further underscored the risks posed by abandoned hardrock mines, particularly to Tribal nations. He stated that the bipartisan effort aims to effectively mitigate environmental hazards and reinforce local authority participation in the process.

Matthew Holloway is a senior reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for the latest stories, or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com.