Contact: Lexi Hamel
(208) 488-2115
[email protected]
WASHINGTON—Today, President Donald Trump signed the Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act, 2026 into law. Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson–Chairman of the House Interior and Environment Appropriations Subcommittee–attended the signing and released the following statement.
“It was an honor to be invited to the White House this afternoon to witness President Trump sign my legislation, along with two other fiscally responsible appropriations bills, into law,” said Rep. Simpson. “I’m deeply proud of the effort that went into this critical legislation, and its accomplishments that work to advance an America First policy agenda. I am proud to have produced a bill that champions Idaho wins, like prioritizing funding for Indian Country and Wildland Fire Management, and importantly, protects America’s public lands. As an America First product, I am thrilled that this legislation lowers energy costs and reverses out-of-touch Biden-era regulations, allowing more families to keep more money in their pockets. Thank you to the President and his administration for the support.”
This legislation includes secured funding for four water improvement projects in American Falls, Bellevue, Fort Hall, and Rigby.
Highlights of the bill include:
- Reduces EPA funding by $320 million.
- Expands access to critical minerals.
- Fully funds the Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) program.
- Protects oil and gas production.
- Prohibits rulings used to weaponize the Endangered Species Act against land users and energy producers.
- Prioritizes funding for Tribes and Wildland Fire Management.
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.
