July 2020

A bulldozer inside a mine pit ready for uranium mining

For years, lobbyists have been working on behalf of mining companies to voice their interest in greater support for uranium mining in Arizona. Back in April, the Trump administration released a report that outlines its plan to revitalize the U.S. nuclear energy industry and support domestic uranium mining. The report was arranged by the Nuclear Fuel Working Group – a task force that was appointed by President Trump in July 2019. The group developed this report to tackle a detailed analysis of the country’s nuclear fuel supply chain. 

 

What is Uranium Mining?

Uranium is a type of metal whose physical properties give it the potential to generate very large amounts of energy from a small amount of material without releasing greenhouse gases. It is a naturally radioactive metal that exists practically everywhere on Earth, creating “natural background radiation.” Over 80% of radiation exposure of an average person comes from natural background radiation. 

Because of its ability to produce energy in commercial nuclear reactors, it fuels 15% of the world’s electricity production.

 

How The Nuclear Report Supports Uranium Mining

The report makes several key recommendations to the U.S. Government. These include streamlining the permitting process for public land access, making it much easier for companies to mine uranium. As well as the ability to make direct purchases of 17 to 19 Mlb of U3O8 (chemical compound for uranium) to establish a uranium reserve beginning in 2020. 

The report also recommends extending an agreement that limits Russian uranium imports, denying imports from China, and funding research and development on new types of reactors and fuels. 

 

The Argument Against Increased Uranium Mining

As one may expect, environmentalists and Native American tribes are concerned about the report and the Trump administration’s push for uranium mining. These opponents feel that with easier access to public lands, mining companies will increase production near national parks, particularly The Grand Canyon, and harm public health. Many also argue that the nation already supplies uranium at competitive prices, and this is the government’s attempt to save the coal industry.

 

How Lobbying Can Play a Role in Mining Production

Whether you are an organization that is for or against the push for increased mining production, a lobbying group will help make your voice heard. For 20 years, Dorn Policy Group, Inc. has proudly been one of Arizona’s premier lobbying firms due to our dedication to clients and their goals. We have been at the forefront of many policies, acting as our clients’ advisors in bringing concerns to the people that matter. If you are in need of getting your voice heard and advocating for policy change, contact us today to learn how we can help.

A jet is parked on a helipad getting ready for defense industry

As COVID-19 continues to impact our communities and businesses, it should come as no surprise that it has also troubled the defense industry. While the aerospace defense industry is experiencing a disruption in production with slow demand for aircraft manufacturing, surprisingly the arms industry is holding itself together.

 

Aerospace Defense Operations During COVID-19

As the government attempts a trillion-dollar emergency spend in anticipation of a coming recession, defense contractors are directed to continue working. To provide these business organizations with sufficient resources for manufacturing, the Pentagon accelerated progress payments. A massive $2 trillion in military spending assistance, or the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, provides $17 billion in cash for defense and $80 billion in loans for desired needs within the aerospace industry.

The aerospace defense factions that have been hit the hardest are the United State’s partner nations. With the pandemic affecting all four corners of the world, partner nations are experiencing challenges in military readiness and the ability to maintain equipment leading to some defense companies experiencing financial weakness.

 

Aerospace Defense Will Move Forward

This is a challenging time for everyone across all industries. While commercial aerospace companies are being hit hard, the defense industry is continuing to move forward despite limited funding and low-demand.

 

Be Proactive with Dorn Policy Group, Inc.

For 20 years, Dorn Policy Group, Inc. has provided effective strategies and on-point political consulting for interest groups around Arizona. We partner with a variety of clients, lobbying for them at every level of government to ensure their voice is heard. Contact us today to learn how we can help your company reach its goals.

Two intercultural delegates and their colleagues on background discussing Lobbying Opportunities

One of the most common questions we get from people who are new to the lobbying industry is why is lobbying legal? Is lobbying considered bribery? No! Lobbying is a right guaranteed in the First Amendment of the Constitution and has been reaffirmed by the government that it is in fact legal. There are major differences between lobbying and bribery; however, sometimes people mix them up. 

Why is Lobbying Different From Bribery?

All too often, lobbying is misinterpreted as bribery. The key factor that differentiates lobbying from bribery is the effort to buy power or paying to guarantee a certain result. However, lobbying is designed to educate and guide government officials on particular topics. The intention and definition of bribery suggest that it would result in a favorable outcome. In turn, lobbying helps influence power, while bribery buys power for the subjects’ benefit. Harvard conducted a study looking at the donations lobbyists give to help influence power compared to a straight bribe and they said: “[Lobbying is] served to build trusted relationships over time and to offset any inconvenience caused by taking the lawmaker’s time.”  

How Does Lobbying Avoid Bribery?

Lobbyists are a group of like-minded individuals, coming together to shape legislation. In fact, the Lobbying Disclosure Act of 1995 requires people to register with the Secretary of the Senate and the Clerk of the House to file all information regarding their expenditures and activities. Therefore, lobbying is set up to be transparent to the government and is recorded to prevent any corruption. 

Why is Lobbying Important?

As we have talked about in our previous blog post, lobbying is a crucial part of our governmental system. Without it, the government would not be able to accomplish favorable legislation and vote to help businesses improve. 

We have been lobbying for over 20 years here at Dorn Policy Group and we have our client’s best interest at heart to change government legislation in the right direction. Our extensive experience and variety of industries we serve have made a top-tier lobbying firms in the Phoenix metro area. 

Contact us today to learn how we can help your business get things done within the Federal, State, or Local government. 

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