Simpson, Mike RSS Articles

Rep. Simpson Advances Funding for New CT Scanner for Minidoka Memorial Hospital

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON—Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson highlighted the inclusion of $495,000 in funding for the Minidoka Memorial Hospital CT Machine Purchase Project in Rupert, Idaho, at his request through Community Project Funding (CPF) in the Fiscal Year 2027 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill.

“The Minidoka Memorial Hospital is the only hospital in Minidoka County, serving several rural areas across southern Idaho,” said Rep. Simpson. “Replacing the hospital’s aging CT scanner is necessary for evaluations and patient care, and it could potentially make a difference between life and death in emergencies. As Idaho’s only appropriator, I will always fight for meaningful projects that support our state.”

“We are grateful for Congressman Simpson's support in advocating for federal funding for replacing the Minidoka Memorial Hospital's CT scanner. This project is necessary for Minidoka County and our neighboring rural communities. We appreciate Congressman Simpson's staff reviewing our community funding project request and supporting rural healthcare in Idaho,” said Minidoka Memorial Hospital Interim Chief Executive Officer Emmett Schuster.

This funding will be used to replace the facility’s aging Computed Tomography (CT) system, a crucial component of the diagnostic infrastructure. The facility’s current CT system has been in service for almost a decade, and this funding will significantly enhance their diagnostic capabilities, improve patient outcomes, and ensure long-term sustainability of the hospital.

As Idaho’s only appropriator, Rep. Simpson has a unique opportunity to fight for Idaho’s priorities and ensure Idahoans’ hard-earned tax dollars return to Idaho.

The Minidoka Memorial Hospital CT Machine Purchase Project is a part of the Fiscal Year 2027 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. This measure has been approved by the House Appropriations Committee.

Rep. Simpson Fights for TRIO in Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Bill

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON—This week, the House Committee on Appropriations voted to advance the Fiscal Year 2027 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson supported this advancement and fought for critical Federal TRIO Programs (TRIO) wins in the measure.

“Idaho’s TRIO programs have a longstanding record of supporting first-generation college students across the state every year,” said Rep. Simpson. “I have been a longtime supporter of TRIO and have seen firsthand how these programs help Idaho students pursue their dreams. I was proud to fight for language that protects TRIO’s core mission and ensure this program receives the necessary funding to continue its important work.”

“For more than 60 years, TRIO programs have helped millions of Americans prepare for, enroll in, and complete higher education. The action taken today by the House Appropriations Committee reinforces the congressional commitment to ensuring that the doors of educational opportunity remain open for our nation's low-income, first-generation students,” said Council for Opportunity in Education President Kimberly Jones.

“We, the TRIO professional community, are grateful for Representative Simpson fighting for TRIO. Right now, more than 8,800 low-income Idahoans who are the first in their families to attend college are gaining the skills they need to enter the workforce, build careers, and make Idaho one of the best states to live and work in. That is what's possible when we invest in people — and that is exactly what's at stake if we stop,” said NAEOP Past-President Dr. Megan Simila.

“TRIO is a vehicle for advancement to any individual seeking higher education. I have worked with adults from all backgrounds, and each has a common desire: to gain more education and training and to improve their lives. We work with individuals to discover programs of study, apply for funding, navigate processes, and motivate them to continue forward through their educational journey. Their stories build on the idea that we can all learn and grow at any stage of our lives,” said Idaho State University TRIO Advisor Emily Wunderlich.

Highlights of TRIO Wins include:

· Provides $1,197,000,000 for the Federal TRIO programs, a $6 million increase above the enacted level.

· Protects TRIO's core mission by requiring the Department of Education to run the programs according to prior practice.

· Includes language that highlights the longstanding, bipartisan Congressional support for TRIO.

· Includes language that highlights support for smaller programs, especially those operating in rural areas.

This funding package will now go to the full floor of the House of Representatives for further consideration.

Rep. Simpson Advances Funding for Steele Memorial Rehabilitation Facility

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON—Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson highlighted the inclusion of $2,000,000 in funding for the Steele Memorial Rehabilitation Facility Modernization for Rural Access and Safety Project in Salmon, Idaho, at his request through Community Project Funding (CPF) in the Fiscal Year 2027 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill.

“As Idaho continues to grow, it is essential that medical centers expand and modernize throughout the state, particularly in rural regions,” said Rep. Simpson. “Investing in Steele Memorial Medical Center’s proposed facility will enhance patient care and keep rehabilitation services local. This project is critical for Salmon and the surrounding communities, and I am proud to support it.”

“This project is about far more than expanding rehabilitation services,” said Preston Becker, Chief Executive Officer of Steele Memorial Medical Center. “Our rehabilitation team is providing outstanding care, but they are doing so in a space that has been outgrown. Today, some patients receive therapy in hallways or in shared areas with limited privacy. This project would be transformational for our hospital and our community. It would create a more modern, private, and functional healing environment for patients, improve safety and patient flow, and help us better use space across the hospital to support other departments that have also outgrown their current footprint. At a time when rural hospitals are working to meet growing healthcare needs with limited space and significant financial pressure, investments like this are difficult to accomplish alone. We are deeply grateful to Congressman Simpson for recognizing the importance of this investment in rural healthcare and in the future of our community.”

This funding will address a core rural healthcare infrastructure needed in Lemhi County’s geographically isolated frontier region by ensuring timely, medically necessary rehabilitation services are available in a safe, private, and ADA-accessible setting.

As Idaho’s only appropriator, Rep. Simpson has a unique opportunity to fight for Idaho’s priorities and ensure Idahoans’ hard-earned tax dollars return to Idaho.

The Steele Memorial Rehabilitation Facility Modernization for Rural Access and Safety Project is a part of the Fiscal Year 2027 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. This measure has been approved by the House Appropriations Committee.

Rep. Simpson Supports Bills to Protect Taxpayer Dollars

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON—This week, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson voted in favor of several bills to protect taxpayer dollars and eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse within the federal government.

“Uncovering and cracking down on the billions of dollars in waste, fraud, and abuse within the federal government is one of Idahoans’ top priorities,” said Rep. Simpson. “America faces an existential threat with nearly $40 trillion in debt. Passing critical legislation to eliminate waste and corruption is a step in the right direction to protect taxpayer dollars.”

The legislation passed this week includes:

H.R. 8312 – Fraud Prevention and Accountability Act. This legislation makes pandemic anti-fraud tools permanent by preserving the Pandemic Response Accountability Committee’s (PRAC) data analytics, investigative resources, and fraud detection capabilities instead of allowing them to expire.
H.R. 8464 – Stopping Fraudulent Payments Act. This legislation ends “pay and chase” and requires agencies to identify and address fraud risks before taxpayer dollars are disbursed.
H.Res. 1335 – Condemning actors seeking to defraud the United States Government.
H.R. 7892 – No Aid for Ghost Students Act. This legislation stops student aid fraud by requiring the Department of Education to use an identity fraud detection system to review FAFSA applications for suspicious activity.

Rep. Simpson Advances Funding for Madison Memorial Hospital Radiology Expansion

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON—Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson highlighted the inclusion of $750,000 in funding for the Madison Memorial Hospital Radiology Expansion Project in Rexburg, Idaho, at his request through Community Project Funding (CPF) in the Fiscal Year 2027 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill.

“Throughout my time in Congress, I have remained committed to supporting rural healthcare in Idaho,” said Rep. Simpson. “As the primary healthcare provider for Madison County and the Upper Valley Region, it is essential to invest in and upgrade the equipment at Madison Memorial Hospital to help expand its radiology department. This investment is critical for patients in our communities, and I’m proud to advocate for this federal funding.”

“We are grateful to Congressman Simpson for his support of Madisonhealth and the patients we serve throughout eastern Idaho. The $750,000 federal investment in our Radiology Expansion Project is a significant step toward expanding access to advanced diagnostic imaging and maternal-fetal medicine services for our growing rural communities. These funds will help strengthen emergency and surgical care, improve access to specialized services for high-risk obstetric patients, and ensure more patients can receive timely, high-quality healthcare close to home. We appreciate Congressman Simpson's continued commitment to improving healthcare access and health outcomes across Idaho,” said Dr. Rachel Gonzales, Madisonhealth Chief Executive Officer.

This funding will allow Madison Memorial to expand its diagnostic imaging and maternal-fetal medicine capabilities in order to better serve the growing population of Madison County and surrounding rural communities. The funding would allow the hospital to purchase critical diagnostic imaging equipment, including a CT Scanner, a C-Arm imaging system, and two advanced ultrasound systems, and the construction necessary to support these services.

As Idaho’s only appropriator, Rep. Simpson has a unique opportunity to fight for Idaho’s priorities and ensure Idahoans’ hard-earned tax dollars return to Idaho.

The Madison Memorial Hospital Radiology Expansion Project is a part of the Fiscal Year 2027 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. This measure has been approved by the House Appropriations Committee.

Rep. Simpson Advances Funding for Milner Dam Rehabilitation

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON—Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson highlighted the inclusion of $15,000,000 in funding for the Milner Dam Rehabilitation Project located in south central Idaho at his request through Community Project Funding (CPF) in the Fiscal Year 2027 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill.

“I’ve spoken to mayors, county commissioners, state elected officials, and countless others who all agree that the Milner Dam is one of the most important water control structures in southern Idaho,” said Rep. Simpson. “During this critical time for water in our state, repairing and rehabilitating Milner Dam is of utmost importance for several southeastern Idaho rural communities. Advancing this funding will benefit 500,000 acres of irrigated farmland, support local residents and jobs, and ensure that future generations have access to safe drinking water. I'm proud to advocate for this project.”

“Milner Dam is a critical structure for the management of the Snake River in Idaho. We are grateful for Congressman Simpson’s support to obtain funding through the Community Project Funding program, which will be matched with state and local funds, for the rehabilitation of this 121-year-old dam,” said Jeff Raybould, Chairman of the Idaho Water Resource Board.

This funding will be used to repair and rehabilitate the dam to ensure continued flood protection for surrounding communities, safeguard more than 500,000 acres of irrigated farmland, and maintain the dam’s critical role in supporting 50–70% of the Idaho Water Resource Board’s aquifer managed recharge program for the Eastern Snake Plain Aquifer (ESPA), the area’s sole source potable water supply.

Despite claims that CPF projects are "wasteful earmarks," Community Project Funding gives Members of Congress like Congressman Simpson the opportunity to bring Idaho tax dollars back home for Idaho priorities. These projects fill a clear and present need in communities across Idaho and enjoy broad community support. The federal dollars designated for CPF projects exist within existing budget limits. Rather than that money going to fund projects in different states, CPF projects give Idahoans a critical voice in determining where budgeted funding goes.

As Idaho’s only appropriator, Rep. Simpson has a unique opportunity to fight for Idaho’s priorities and ensure Idahoans’ hard-earned tax dollars return to Idaho.

The Milner Dam Rehabilitation Project is a part of the Fiscal Year 2027 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. This measure has been approved by the House Appropriations Committee.

Rep. Simpson Advances Funding for Dry Creek Bridge Replacement

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON—Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson highlighted the inclusion of $5,833,000 in funding for the Dry Creek Bridge Replacement Project near Murtaugh, Idaho, at his request through Community Project Funding (CPF) in the Fiscal Year 2027 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill.

“Replacing the nearly 95-year-old Dry Creek Bridge is long overdue,” said Rep. Simpson. “Given the growth in Twin Falls County and throughout our state, improving and replacing this existing bridge will enhance public safety. I’ve spoken with the Idaho State Police, the Rock Creek Fire District, and several other local organizations, and there is a common consensus that this new bridge will serve the community and provide long-term stability.”

“This is a needed project on US-30 as the Dry Creek Bridge serves communities, recreation, and commerce including our important agriculture industry. We are grateful for the consideration and attention from Representative Simpson on this project and look forward to completing it,” said Idaho Transportation Department District 4 Head Engineer Jesse Barrus.

This funding will be used to replace the Dry Creek Bridge, as it is nearing the end of its service life. The current narrow lanes and outdated design limit capacity and safety. Replacing it will widen and elevate the structure, improve sight distance, modernize guardrails, and improve the safety of the bridge

As Idaho’s only appropriator, Rep. Simpson has a unique opportunity to fight for Idaho’s priorities and ensure Idahoans’ hard-earned tax dollars return to Idaho.

The Dry Creek Bridge Replacement Project is a part of the Fiscal Year 2027 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. This measure has been approved by the House Appropriations Committee.

Rep. Simpson Advances World Center for Birds of Prey Funding

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON—Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson highlighted the inclusion of $8,500,000 in funding for the Global Conservation Education and Condor Recovery Center Project in Boise, Idaho, at his request through Community Project Funding (CPF) in the Fiscal Year 2027 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill.

“The Peregrine Fund and Boise State University's collaborative efforts in raptor conservation, science, and species recovery will position Idaho as a continued leader in this field,” said Rep. Simpson. “As a longtime supporter of Boise State University, The Peregrine Fund, and the critical work that they both do, I am proud to advance funding for the proposed recovery center. The late Dirk Kempthorne, one of Idaho's most effective public servants and a dear friend of mine, championed species recovery efforts and strongly supported this project.”

“We are grateful to Congressman Simpson for securing this vital funding, which will help protect and preserve Idaho's birds of prey — magnificent animals that are deeply woven into our state's cultural identity and essential to the health of our ecosystems. This investment will advance critical scientific research and bring meaningful educational outreach to communities across Idaho, ensuring that future generations understand and appreciate the irreplaceable role these birds play in our natural world,” said Boise State University Vice President of Research and Economic Development Dr. Nancy Glenn.

“Congressman Simpson has long recognized that The Peregrine Fund's approach — rigorous science, durable partnerships, and measurable results — is exactly how endangered species get recovered. This investment doesn't just support the condor; it establishes Idaho as a global center for collaborative conservation excellence and ensures the next generation of scientists carries that model to ecosystems around the world,” said Chris Parish, President & CEO, The Peregrine Fund.

This funding will be used to enhance the partnership of Boise State University and the Peregrine Fund organization by constructing and renovating certain facilities and infrastructure at the World Center for Birds of Prey outside of Boise, Idaho.

As Idaho’s only appropriator, Rep. Simpson has a unique opportunity to fight for Idaho’s priorities and ensure Idahoans’ hard-earned tax dollars return to Idaho.

The Global Conservation Education and Condor Recovery Center Project is a part of the Fiscal Year 2027 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. This measure has been approved by the House Appropriations Committee.

Rep. Simpson Advances Funding for Idaho Water Improvement Projects

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON—Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson–Chairman of the House Interior and Environment Appropriations Subcommittee–highlighted the inclusion of $13,200,000 in funding for the State and Tribal Assistance Grants (STAG) for the cities of Carey, Driggs, Fort Hall, Grace, Rupert, and Twin Falls, Idaho, at his request through Community Project Funding (CPF) in the Fiscal Year 2027 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill.

“Community Project Funding is one of the most effective ways elected officials can deliver meaningful results for our communities,” said Rep. Simpson. “This funding for water infrastructure improvement projects in small and rural communities is not ‘wasteful spending,’ it’s vital for ensuring our neighborhoods have clean drinking water and safe infrastructure. As Idaho’s only appropriator, I will always advocate for bringing money back to our state, and I am proud of the collaborative effort involving Carey, Driggs, Fort Hall, Grace, Rupert, and Twin Falls, with my office.”

Carey

“On behalf of the City of Carey, we sincerely appreciate Congressman Mike Simpson’s support of the proposed wastewater system improvements project. This critical investment will correct existing system deficiencies, strengthen long-term infrastructure resilience, and provide lasting value to residents, businesses, and visitors. It will also help protect important water resources, including the Little Wood River and its tributaries, reduce impacts to the Eastern Snake River Plain aquifer, and improve the reliability of essential infrastructure within Blaine County and the State of Idaho. Overall, this investment reflects a strong commitment to public health and environmental stewardship, delivering enduring value for generations to come,” said Carey Mayor Logan Davis.

Driggs

“Many thanks to Congressman Simpson for the $1.35M grant through the Community Project! This will help fund our Wastewater Treatment Plant upgrade and offset the utility bills for our residents and local businesses,” said Driggs Mayor August Christensen.

Fort Hall

“This funding addresses a critical infrastructure need on the Fort Hall Indian Reservation to improve our wastewater system while protecting public health and supporting the long-term well-being of our community. We appreciate Congressman Simpson for recognizing the needs of the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes and for his continued advocacy on behalf of infrastructure projects that benefit our reservation and the people he serves,” said Shoshone-Bannock Tribes Chairwoman Donna Thompson.

Grace

“This project would ensure the community of 930 has a sufficient water supply now and into the future. I, as Mayor of the City of Grace, would like to express my gratitude and appreciation to Congressman Simpson and his office for their diligent service to rural Idaho to obtain grant financing for the City of Grace’s potable water system improvement. A recent engineering evaluation of our springs and transmission water lines to the city storage tanks was projected to be between $15,000,000 and $16,000,000 to complete the necessary upgrades. Once all upgrades are in place, the City of Grace is putting in place an ongoing maintenance program that will reduce the cost of upgrading in the future,” said Grace Mayor David Pristupa.

Rupert

“Rural infrastructure is one of the defining challenges facing communities across Idaho. When aging wastewater systems begin to fail, the burden on residents and local businesses can become overwhelming. This investment will help Rupert continue operating a wastewater system that is essential not only for homes and families, but also for the agricultural processing industries that sustain much of southern Idaho’s economy. Congressman Simpson's attention to this growing Idaho problem is insightful and very much appreciated,” said Rupert Mayor Tammy Jones.

“In the Idaho Legislature, I have consistently advocated for greater recognition of the infrastructure pressures facing rural communities. Agricultural communities like Rupert provide enormous economic value to our state, but they also carry expensive infrastructure responsibilities tied to food processing and other ‘wet industries.’ This federal support, made possible by Congressman Simpson, is an important acknowledgment that rural Idaho matters and that these communities deserve the tools necessary to succeed,” said President Pro Tempore Kelly Anthon.

Twin Falls

“Twin Falls appreciates Congressman Mike Simpson’s continued leadership and advocacy for Idaho communities through this $1.5 million investment in critical wastewater infrastructure. As our community continues to grow, projects like this help ensure we are prepared to support new housing, future job creation, and long-term economic opportunity while maintaining the quality of life that makes Twin Falls such a great place to live and work. Infrastructure investment is ultimately about creating opportunities for families and businesses to prosper, and we are grateful for Congressman Simpson’s partnership in helping position Twin Falls for the future,” said Twin Falls Mayor Jason Brown.

Despite claims that CPF projects are “wasteful earmarks,” Community Project Funding gives Members of Congress like Congressman Simpson the opportunity to bring Idaho tax dollars back home for Idaho priorities. These projects fill a clear and present need in communities across Idaho and enjoy broad community support. The federal dollars designated for CPF projects exist within existing budget limits. Rather than that money going to fund projects in different states, CPF projects give Idahoans a critical voice in determining where budgeted funding goes.

As Idaho’s only appropriator, Rep. Simpson has a unique opportunity to fight for Idaho’s priorities and ensure Idahoans’ hard-earned tax dollars return to Idaho.

These STAG projects are a part of the Fiscal Year 2027 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. This measure has been approved by the House Appropriations Committee.

Rep. Simpson Supports America's Farmers and Ranchers in Agriculture Appropriations Bill

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON—Today, the United States House of Representatives passed the Fiscal Year 2027 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration Appropriations Bill. Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson supported this advancement. This bill 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.

“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,” said Rep. Simpson.

Highlights of the bill include:

Continues investments in agriculture research, rural development, loan programs, and animal and plant health programs.
Reins in harmful Biden-era regulations that dictate how poultry and livestock producers raise and market their animals.
Addresses foreign ownership of United States agricultural land.
Supports the Trump Administration’s public health priorities.

The Fiscal Year 2027 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration Appropriations Bill includes Congressman Simpson’s Community Project Funding (CPF) request for $5,000,000 for the USDA-ARS University of Idaho Aberdeen Research and Extension Center Potato Breeding Facilities Project.

This funding package will now go to the Senate for further consideration.