By Congressman Mike Simpson
October 18th, 2026
Dear Friend,
Wildfires throughout the West are far too common. Many of us have dealt with wildfires or know someone who has. As Chairman of the House Interior and Environment Appropriations Subcommittee, I’ve had several discussions about the best way to advocate for better wildfire prevention and fought for provisions that support our wildland firefighters, like securing a permanent pay fix.
A few years ago, I secured funding to reconstruct the Shoshone Bannock Tribe Fire Station. Earlier this year, I saw firsthand how this critical funding can improve the safety and prosperity of our communities. As Idaho’s only appropriator, it is my honor to fight to bring federal funding back to our communities, rather than to states like California or New York.
In case you missed it: I recently joined more than 60 of my colleagues as a new member of the Sharia-Free America Caucus and cosponsored a bill that would prevent all foreign nationals who observe Sharia from entering the United States or from remaining in the country, prioritizing our security and values nationwide.
Western Fire Chiefs Association Conference
Year after year, deadly wildfires continue to impact communities in Idaho and throughout the West. As Chairman of the House Interior and Environment Appropriations Subcommittee, my Fiscal Year 2027 bill prioritizes funding for Wildland Fire Management while protecting access to our public lands.
I’m grateful to have attended the Western Fire Chiefs Association conference this week. Thank you for having me. I look forward to continuing these critical conversations!
Securing Funding for Our Communities
Earlier this year, I attended the ribbon-cutting for the Fort Hall Fire Department’s new station, a community funding project for which I proudly secured federal funding.
This project will provide high-quality essential services to protect the lives and property of the Fort Hall reservation residents, employees, and visitors, as well as the surrounding communities.
Joining Sharia-Free America Efforts
ICYMI: I recently cosponsored H.R. 5722 – Preserving a Sharia-Free America Act.
This legislation would prevent all foreign nationals who observe Sharia from entering the United States or from remaining in the country, prioritizing our security and values nationwide. Sharia law has no place in this country and is incompatible with American values, our way of life, and the United States Constitution.
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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.
