[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 37 (Wednesday, February 25, 2026)]
[Senate]
[Page S679]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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  RECOGNIZING STILLWATER AND EAST BOULDER PLATINUM AND PALLADIUM MINES

 Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, today I have the honor to recognize 
the Stillwater and East Boulder Platinum Palladium Mines in Stillwater 
and Sweet Grass Counties, MT.
  Montana's mining industry is critically important to not only our 
State, but our country. Hard rock mining provides over 18,000 good-
paying jobs in Montana and adds nearly $430 million to the State's 
economy. Additionally, Montana is home to the only primary producer of 
platinum and palladium in America: the Stillwater and East Boulder 
Mines.
  Platinum-group metals, including palladium, are critically important 
metals for automobile production, medical and electronic devices, as 
well as the defense industry, and are primarily mined in Montana, 
Russia, and South Africa. Several years ago, Russian palladium dumping 
drove down the price and caused the mines to lay off nearly 700 
employees. Not only was this devasting to the Montana communities, it 
forced America to become more reliant on foreign imported palladium.
  However, the mine and the hard-working Montanans persisted. Each day, 
miners and refiners came to work and continued to produce this 
important metal for the country. Montanans are united to supporting our 
miners and combating illegal Russian dumping. Thankfully, due to the 
hard work of many folks, we have seen actions to turn the tide and 
support the longevity of the mines.
  Today, we recognize the Stillwater and East Boulder Mines, their 
employees, and all miners in the State for their perseverance and hard 
work. Mining is a critical industry and miners work long days in 
dangerous conditions. On behalf of Montana, we thank you for your 
contributions to our State.

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