[ModelBreaker]

Of course, the concept of removing EPA restrictions on mining for rare earths domestically would never occur to anyone.

[Ben Ficklin]

There are no restrictions on mining of rare earths, but there are environmental standards that are going to vary with land.

MolyCorp, the only rare earth mine in the US, is located on private property, so the County Planning Commission is the lead agency and has more authority than either the federal agency(EPA) or the state enviro agency. An Environmental Impact Report is required.

But if you want to locate your mine on BLM land then you will have to deal with EPA and you will be required to have an Environmental Impact Statement.