Senator Tim Sheehy announced on Apr. 16 his support for House Joint Resolution 140, which seeks to nullify Public Land Order 7917 and reverse a mineral withdrawal enacted in 2023.
The decision addresses ongoing debate about mining near the Boundary Waters and its potential impact on local communities and the environment. The resolution does not authorize mining but removes restrictions that were put in place by the Biden administration.
“Today I voted for H.J. Res. 140, which rescinds the excessive mineral withdrawal that was enacted in 2023. I have engaged in deep consultation with environmental experts, activist groups, community members, and elected leaders on both sides of this issue. But most importantly, I have spent time speaking directly to residents who live full time near Ely. As with all votes, I do not take this one lightly,” Sheehy said.
Sheehy also addressed concerns about public land use and local input: “Let’s be clear: this resolution does NOT approve mining in the Boundary Waters. It removes the irresponsible withdrawal of mineral rights that was enacted under the Biden administration in an extremely aggressive use of a Public Land Order that contrasted with the will of local elected officials and most community members who support the mining industry in their town.” He added that any future mine would still need to undergo “the incredibly rigorous permitting process, NEPA, public comment, and environmental review.”
Sheehy emphasized his commitment to oversight: “As an ardent defender of our public lands, I will work in a bipartisan manner with my colleagues to closely monitor the permitting and environmental review of this proposed project and ensure it complies with all applicable best practices and statutes.”
Sheehy’s background includes service as a Navy SEAL officer leading combat deployments according to his official website. He earned both the Bronze Star with Valor and Purple Heart for his military service according to his official website. In addition to founding Bridger Aerospace—a company employing hundreds—he co-founded the Montana Firefighters Fund according to his official website.
He concluded by discussing broader implications for U.S.-based resource extraction: “For decades, the United States has systematically eradicated the mining industry from America… America mines better and cleaner than anyone else in the world, and we should proudly support responsible mining projects.”
Sheehy’s experience also includes graduating from the United States Naval Academy where he participated in varsity crew and special operations training according to his official website. He serves on Senate committees related to Armed Services, Veterans’ Affairs as well as Commerce, Science, and Transportation according to his official website. Together with his wife—a former Marine Corps officer—Sheehy raises four children in Montana according to his official website.
