By Cong. Mike Simpson
Dear Friend,
As I mentioned last week, the August District Work Period is officially over. That means that Congress is back in Washington! From meetings with constituents, marking up our appropriations bills, and passing critical legislation, it was a productive week here in our nation’s capital.
It was a big week on the House floor for the Idaho National Laboratory. We passed the Fiscal Year 2026 Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. This legislation safeguards national security, unleashes American energy dominance, and advances economic competitiveness. I am proud to have secured critical funding for INL in this legislation. You can learn more about the wins below.
Right now is crunch time for the House Appropriations Committee. We are working hard to reduce federal spending while fulfilling President Trump’s policy initiatives. For the Committee to bring our bills to the House floor, we must mark them up in their respective subcommittee before advancing them to the full Committee.
Securing INL Priorities
The Idaho National Laboratory is a world leader in nuclear energy research and a hub for remarkable advancements in nuclear technologies. INL has long worked to advance America’s nuclear technology and strengthen our national security, and I have been proud to support their efforts in Congress.
I am confident that the future of nuclear energy is bright under President Trump and Secretary Wright. As a longtime member and former Chairman of this critical subcommittee, I am pleased to see this legislation expand America’s nuclear capabilities and address the future of nuclear energy.
Appropriations Season
Appropriations season is in full swing. In addition to the House passing the FY26 Energy and Water Appropriations Bill, the Full House Appropriations Committee voted to advance the Fiscal Year 2026 Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Bill.
This fiscally responsible appropriations bill drives economic growth, supports the United States’ financial systems, and invests in technology innovation. This legislation will now head to the House floor.
Advancing Funding for Water Improvement Projects in American Falls, Bellevue, Fort Hall, and Rigby
During this pivotal time for water in Idaho, I am proud of the resources provided for water infrastructure projects and the impact they will have in our neighborhoods.
As Idaho’s only appropriator, it is my honor and responsibility to advocate for Idaho and ensure our state’s priorities are heard. I am proud of the collaborative effort with my office and the cities of American Falls, Bellevue, Fort Hall, and Rigby to produce meaningful results for our communities. Read what the cities have to say here.
About Mike Simpson
An Idaho native, Mike Simpson was born in Burley and raised in Blackfoot. His political career began in 1980, when he was elected to the Blackfoot City Council. In 1984, he was elected to the Idaho Legislature where he served until 1998, the last six years serving as Speaker. Mike is currently serving his fourteenth term in the House of Representatives for Idaho’s second congressional district. Visit https://simpson.house.gov/ to learn more or find contact info.
