"The Biden administration on Thursday published a key environmental report for ioneer's Rhyolite Ridge lithium mine in Nevada, the last step needed before approving what would become one of the largest U.S. sources of the electric vehicle battery metal.

The move comes after a review process of more than six years and as part of Washington's ongoing efforts to boost domestic critical minerals production and offset China's market dominance. If approved, the mine would be the first lithium project permitted by Biden officials.

The U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) published a final environmental impact statement that sets in motion a review period of at least 30 days before a record of decision - essentially a mine's permit - can be issued. The BLM also published an opinion on how a rare flower at the mine site can best be protected.

Shares of ioneer jumped more than 12% in New York trading."

Ernest Scheyder reports for Reuters September 19, 2024. [2]