By Congressman Mike Simpson
Dear Friend,
It was a productive week here in DC! The House Committee on Appropriations voted to advance my Fiscal Year 2027 Interior, Environment and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. This means that this legislation is one step closer to passing the House floor. It’s a critical bill for Idaho and across the West. You can learn more about this legislation below.
Speaking of appropriations, the full House of Representatives passed the Fiscal Year 2027 Agriculture Appropriations Bill. This legislation champions America’s farmers, agriculture, and rural communities, protects our nation’s food and drug supply, and ensures low-income Americans have access to nutrition programs. I’m thrilled this bill includes a community funding project for the USDA-ARS University of Idaho Aberdeen Research and Extension Center Potato Breeding Facilities Project, which I secured funding for!Last but certainly not least, I speak with Idahoans all the time, and one of their top concerns is eliminating waste, fraud, and abuse within the federal government. I couldn’t agree more. That’s why I proudly supported legislation on the House floor this week that does just that while protecting taxpayer dollars.
Fighting for Idaho Priorities!
As Chairman of the House Interior and Environment Appropriations Subcommittee, I promised to write a fiscally responsible bill that rightsizes federal agencies, supports the Trump Administration’s policy goals, and reduces regulatory burdens. I am thrilled that this critical legislation does so while continuing to protect public lands and programs vital to states and local communities.
You can read my full statement here.
Highlights of the bill include:
- Reduces EPA funding by 20%.
- Protects access to public lands.
- Expands access to critical minerals.
- Fully funds the PILT program.
- Prohibits rulings used to weaponize the Endangered Species Act against land users and energy producers.
- Prioritizes funding for Tribes and Wildland Fire Management.
Supporting America’s Farmers and Ranchers
From strengthening America’s food supply by supporting the farmers and ranchers who feed our country to making critical investments where rural communities need it the most, I am proud to support the Fiscal Year 2027 Agriculture Appropriations Bill once again.
I am grateful to see this measure include critical funding for the USDA-ARS University of Idaho Aberdeen Research and Extension Center, which I proudly fought for. I will always fight for Idaho agriculture and priorities.
Eliminating Waste, Fraud, and Abuse
This week, the House passed the Stop Child Care Scams Act. Uncovering and cracking down on the billions of dollars in waste, fraud, and abuse within the federal government is one of Idahoans’ top priorities.
America faces an existential threat with nearly $40 trillion in debt. Passing legislation to eliminate waste and corruption is a step in the right direction to protect taxpayer dollars. More bills on this to come!
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.
