By Congressman Mike Simpson
Dear Friend,
Calling yourself a peaceful protestor does not always make you one, especially if your actions include harassing, intimidating, and even physically assaulting federal officers. I recently cosponsored legislation to increase protections for federal officers. The Halo Act is a bill that would shield federal officers from threats, interference, or harassment while conducting official duties. You can read more about this legislation below.
TIME TO FUND THE DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY: As a reminder, House Republicans have twice passed full-year funding to keep DHS fully operational. This legislation is the same bipartisan and bicameral framework negotiated with House and Senate Republicans and Democrats. Unfortunately, Senate Democrats walked away from the deal over one month ago. This funding fight is avoidable, reckless, and deeply discouraging for hardworking Americans impacted by partisan games.
Last but not least, a big thank you to the Idaho Falls Chamber for hosting me, Governor Little, and Lieutenant Governor Bedke earlier this week for a roundtable discussion on issues affecting our state and the nation. As the battle for DHS funding continues, I had the opportunity to explain what’s happening in Washington to those who attended.
Increasing Protections for Federal Officers
It is common sense to enact criminal penalties for these agitators and establish a buffer zone for the safety of our dedicated law enforcement, particularly during a time when they are facing record-high threats and attacks. Not every federal officer is experienced in crowd control, so when local officers are ordered to stand down, like they were in Minneapolis, while fellow officers urgently need help, tensions escalate and problems arise.
I am proud to cosponsor Congressman Rulli’s bill to combat these issues, hold agitators accountable, and to shield the brave men and women who serve and protect our communities.
Funding the Department of Homeland Security
TSA agents and tens of thousands of other DHS employees who support homeland security missions are missing full paychecks. More than 85,000 DHS personnel nationwide are still working without pay.
This is incredibly disappointing. I have always said that shutdowns are bad policy and politics, and hardworking Idahoans and Americans nationwide deserve better. It is well past time for my colleagues from across the aisle to come to the table and fund DHS.
Discussing DC Issues with Idahoans
I appreciated having the opportunity to stand alongside Governor Little and Lieutenant Governor Bedke to deliver a Washington update and answer questions from Idahoans.
From DHS funding to the SAVE America Act to the exciting things happening at INL to tax breaks for Idahoans, there was no shortage of things to discuss!
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.
