March 7, 2017

Soda ash, also known as sodium carbonate, which is used in products such as glass, detergent, and other industrial goods, may receive a royalty cut. Senator John Barrasso (R-WY) introduced the "American Soda Ash Competitiveness Act" (S.546) to temporarily reduce the government royalty rate for natural soda ash production on federal land by four percent, from six to two percent.

The bill was referred to the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.

Representative Paul Cook (R-CA-8) introduced a similar bill (H.R.1399) in the House, which was referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources, Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources.

Sources: Congress.gov, Senate.gov