NMA Hires Former GOP Staffers to Lobby Congress for Increased Access to Federal Land and Mineral Production

The National Mining Association (NMA) has enlisted former Republican Capitol Hill staffers to lobby Congress on issues such as access to more federal land, the cleanup of abandoned mines, and boosting domestic production. The Stanton Park Group, which includes James Derderian, the firm’s founder and managing partner, served as the House Energy and Commerce Committee’s chief of staff from 1995 to 2001 under Republican leadership. NMA also tapped Valerie Henry, Joe Rachinsky, and Bryan Wells, who previously advised former Republican Sen. Pat Roberts of Kansas. The association is increasing its lobbying efforts as companies aim to secure more lands, accelerate permitting and increase domestic production of critical minerals.