The Graphite Creek deposit near Nome is the largest identified deposit of graphite, a critical mineral, in the United States. (Photo by George Case/U.S. Geological Survey)
The Graphite Creek deposit near Nome is the largest identified deposit of graphite, a critical mineral, in the United States. (Photo by George Case/U.S. Geological Survey)

Alaska’s state-owned development bank is asking state lawmakers for permission to borrow up to $300 million that could be spent to support mining projects statewide.

To date, officials at the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority have not provided legislators or the public with a precise spending plan. 

Randy…