FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 29, 2026
Contact:
Madison Hardy
Janessa Tolman
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho) today requested the Department of the Air Force review the housing boundaries used to calculate Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) rates for Airmen stationed at Mountain Home Air Force Base.
“Our Airmen undertake demanding assignments and time away from loved ones to defend our nation and protect our freedoms. Their spouses and children share in these sacrifices. We have a responsibility to provide our military families with meaningful support that reflects the demands of service,” wrote Risch. “Caring for military families and spouses is essential to sustaining a ready and capable force. Easing avoidable financial pressures at home will help Airmen focus on their duties and ensure that Mountain Home Air Force Base remains well positioned to attract and retain the skilled personnel needed to carry out its mission and keep our country safe.”
BAH provides financial assistance to service members living off base to help cover housing costs. Rates are dependent upon duty location and are not designed to address all housing options.
Many Mountain Home Air Force Base personnel live in Boise, where housing costs can be higher than in communities closer to the Base. Reviewing the boundaries used to determine BAH could help ensure rates adequately reflect current housing market conditions and support military families.
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About Jim Risch
Jim Risch proudly represents the people of Idaho in the United States Senate. He currently chairs the Foreign Relations Committee and sits on the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. Risch previously served as Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and State Senator. For the latest press releases and constituent services visit risch.senate.gov.
