US HB2969

Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior, through the U.S. Geological Survey, to enter into memoranda of understanding with foreign countries that are sources of critical minerals and rare earth elements for scientific cooperation in mapping these resources

Requires that private companies headquartered in the U.S. or allied foreign countries (those with mutual defense treaties) receive right of first refusal for further development of mapped mineral reserves

Cooperative activities include geologic data acquisition and analysis, prospectivity mapping, mineral resource assessment, training in geoscience and environmental standards, and capacity building for partner country officials

Mapping data must be protected against unauthorized access by governments or private entities from countries that are not parties to the agreement or U.S. defense allies

Secretary must notify Congress at least 30 days before entering into any memorandum, collaborate with the Secretary of State on partner country selection and negotiations, and consult with private sector actors on implementation