Ciscomani Joins Florence Copper, Administrator Zeldin to Celebrate Arizona Copper Production Milestone

Florence, AZ - Representative Juan Ciscomani joined Florence Copper leadership and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin to celebrate Florence Copper, the first new source of copper in the United States since 2008.

"Copper is one of Arizona's 5 Cs and an essential part of our state's economy. We have long been a leader in America's effort to produce the critical minerals our national economy and security depend on. Throughout my time in office, I have championed our state's continued leadership in domestic copper production and am grateful for operations like Florence Copper which work to advance this leadership," said Rep. Ciscomani. "In becoming the nation's first new major source of domestic copper production in nearly two decades, Florence Copper has shown immense success in ensuring Arizona remains a leader in our nation's domestic copper production. I am proud to join Florence Copper in celebrating this significant milestone and remain committed to partnering with this operation and others throughout Arizona to advance our state's role in America's domestic copper production."

Florence Copper is the world's first greenfield commercial in-situ copper recovery (ISCR) operation. On February 26, 2026, Florence Copper produced its first copper cathode, becoming the first major new source of domestic copper production in the United States in nearly two decades. At full production, Florence Copper is expected to produce approximately 85 million pounds of copper cathode annually, increasing the United States' refined copper production by approximately 5% above 2025 levels. The operation supports Arizona jobs, domestic manufacturing, and critical mineral supply chains.

"The opening of the Florence Copper Mine is a huge win for Arizona's economy and their environment," said EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin. "Congressmen Ciscomani and Crane have worked hard to ensure communities benefit from the hundreds of jobs and billions of dollars that will pour into Arizona's economy over the coming years due to these operations. I was proud to represent the Trump Administration at Florence Copper's announcement, as Arizona is yet again at the forefront of demonstrating how we can protect our environment while also promoting economic growth."

"We've taken a real community-focused approach here," said Trekor President & CEO Stuart McDonald. "We've gained, over time, a lot of trust here and a great relationship. We really have a unique, innovative operation. We're not digging a hole in the ground. There's no waste rock...We're able to extract copper with significantly less greenhouse gas emissions, less energy consumption and less water use."

In office, Representative Ciscomani has worked to ensure Arizona remains a key leader in America's critical mineral supply chains and domestic copper production.

Ciscomani's Critical Mineral Consistency Act (H.R. 755), which passed the House earlier this year, aligns the Departments of Energy and Interior's lists of materials and minerals considered critical. By standardizing the definition and recognition of critical minerals, the legislation will help streamline permitting, attract investment, and aid the development of domestic mining and processing projects which are vital to national security and economic growth. For Arizona specifically, this legislation means that copper projects throughout the state will experience easier approval and streamlining.

Ciscomani has also celebrated recent investments in Arizona mining. The Department of Energy has invested $20 million in the University of Arizona's School of Mining Engineering and Mineral Resources, boosting the state's mining capabilities and investing in the next generation of workers. Additionally, Ciscomani celebrated a $1 billion investment in the Santa Cruz Copper Project and $180 million to strengthen mining education, including at the University of Arizona. These investments are crucial for the advancement of Arizona's copper, contributing to the state's overall economic strength and ability to lead in America's domestic copper production.

Recently, Ciscomani honored the South32 team for their outstanding work and commitment to safety on the Hermosa Project, a critical investment in Santa Cruz County which is projected to be completed in 2028. The South32 team, like Florence Copper, plays a vital role in strengthening Arizona's overall economy and supplying the critical minerals necessary for our national security.

Representative Ciscomani is proud to continue his partnership with Arizona mining operations to ensure Arizona's Sixth Congressional District remains a leader in domestic copper production and critical mineral supply.

Read more about Representative Ciscomani's efforts to strengthen Arizona's domestic copper production HERE and HERE.

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