On April 25, 2025, NOAA announced its plans to facilitate the expedited review of applications for deep sea mineral exploration and recovery pursuant to President Trump's Executive Order 14285, Unleashing America's Offshore Critical Minerals and Resources. NOAA is authorized to review applications and issue exploration licenses and recovery permits for deep sea mining in international waters under the Deep Seabed Hard Mineral Resources Act. To carry out President Trump's directive, "NOAA is working to update and streamline the application process by enhancing coordination across agencies, working with regional fishery management councils, and engaging private partners to ensure an efficient and transparent approach to granting licenses and permits. The licensing and permitting process will include an opportunity for public comment."