CA is getting into Lithium extraction in a big way down around the Salton Sea.

Exxon (of all people) just bought leases for drilling for Lithium in Arkansas.

And that's not to mention various new battery chemistries (sodium-ion, for one) that obviate the need for Li completely.

https://www.technologyreview.com/2023/01/04/1066141/whats-next-for-batteries/