Simpson, Mike RSS Articles

Rep. Simpson Cosponsors Resolution to Recognize America 250 Betsy Ross Flag

Tue, 26 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON—Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson cosponsored a resolution to designate the America 250 Betsy Ross Flag as an official flag of the United States, and therefore eligible to be displayed from all United States federal government buildings, properties, installations, and military bases at home and abroad. This resolution is sponsored by Rep. Barry Loudermilk (R-GA).

“The most recognized and powerful national symbol is the American flag. Old Glory represents freedom and independence. As our great nation approaches its 250th birthday, there is no better way to celebrate than by proudly flying the America 250 Betsy Ross Flag for all to see,” said Rep. Simpson.

The full text of this resolution is available here.

Rep. Simpson Cosponsors Resolution Honoring Memorial Day

Mon, 25 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON—Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson cosponsored a Memorial Day resolution honoring the men and women of the Armed Forces and recognizing the more than one million Americans who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the United States. This resolution is sponsored by Rep. Michael Guest (R-MS).

“As we approach our country’s 250th birthday, we are reminded that freedom is not free. This Memorial Day, and always, we pause to honor and remember those who gave their lives to protect the freedoms that we have enjoyed for the past two and a half centuries. I join Idahoans in expressing my gratitude to the service members who made the ultimate sacrifice, as well as to the brave men and women of the Armed Forces around this great country,” said Rep. Simpson.

The full text of this resolution is available here.

Rep. Simpson Joins Letter Pressing for Action to Protect U.S. Sugar Producers from Unfair Foreign Trade Practices

Thu, 21 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON—Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson signed a letter in support of efforts by U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) Ambassador Jamieson Greer to utilize a Section 301 investigation into unfair and discriminatory trade practices by foreign sugar-producing countries. In the letter, the members call on USTR to take appropriate action to protect American sugarbeet and sugarcane farmers, processors, refiners, and factory workers from being undercut by discriminatory foreign trade practices. This bipartisan and bicameral letter, led by U.S. Representatives Julie Fedorchak (R-ND) and Troy Carter (R-LA) and U.S. Senators John Hoeven (R-ND) and Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), has support from over 110 members of Congress.

“The sugar farming families and workers across our States support more than 151,000 jobs in more than two dozen states while generating more than $23 billion in economic activity each year. We are gravely concerned about the surge in unfairly traded foreign sugar imports, which, along with higher input costs, are plunging the domestic industry into crisis and presenting an imminent threat to the industry’s long-term viability,” wrote the members of Congress.

“U.S. sugar policy is a necessary response to a global playing field where foreign countries routinely sell sugar at well below the world cost of production… In the past 10 years, 14 percent of our nation’s beet sugar processing facilities and 12 percent of our domestic cane sugar mills and refineries have closed, including the complete loss of sugarbeet farming in California (2025) and sugarcane farming in Hawaii (2016) and Texas (2024). Absent action to protect the domestic sugar industry from discriminatory foreign trade practices, these continued revenue losses will only mount, threatening the future existence of domestic U.S. sugar production. We strongly urge you to investigate these unfair trading practices that disadvantage our domestic sugar industry and take decisive action as appropriate.”

The full letter is available here.

The following organizations have endorsed the letter: Amalgamated Sugar Company, American Crystal Sugar Company, American Farm Bureau Federation, American Sugar Alliance, American Sugar Cane League, American Sugar Refining, Inc., American Sugarbeet Growers Association, Big Horn Basin Beet Growers Association, Big Horn County Sugar Beet Growers Association, Colorado Sugarbeet Growers Association, Elwyhee Beet Growers Association, Florida Crystals Corporation, Florida Sugar Cane League, Michigan Sugar Company, Minn-Dak Farmers Cooperative, National Council of Farmer Cooperatives, National Farmers Union, NebCo Beet Growers Association, Nebraska Sugarbeet Growers Association, Red River Valley Sugarbeet Growers Association, Snake River Sugarbeet Growers, Southern- Minnesota Beet Sugar Cooperative, Southern Montana Sugarbeet Growers Association, Sugarcane Growers Cooperative of Florida, US Beet Sugar Association, US Sugar, Western Sugar Cooperative, Wheatland Beet Growers Association, and the Wyoming Sugar Company.

The Need for a Stable, Reliable, and Legal Workforce Remains Imperative

Wed, 20 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

When a person thinks of Idaho agriculture, the first thing that may come to mind is potatoes. Or maybe it’s sugar beets, barley, or one of the other 180-plus commodities. What many people don’t realize is that dairy is Idaho's top agricultural product in cash receipts.

Idaho’s dairy dominance may not come as a surprise to those directly involved in the industry, but whether we realize it or not, Americans nationwide rely on Idaho dairy for the milk, yogurt, butter, and cheese we consume daily.

Despite dairy being Idaho’s top farm commodity, farmers and ranchers are facing a mounting labor crisis.

Over the past few years, the most common and pressing issue brought to my attention has been the need for a stable, reliable agricultural workforce.

There is a lot of misinformation out there about addressing this workforce crisis, but the reality is that if Congress doesn’t act to reform our agricultural immigration system, all Americans will feel the pain.

Don't just take my word for it—ask any farmer or rancher, and I guarantee they will agree that a lack of labor reform could jeopardize the stability of the dairy industry.

Volatility and a shortage of workers are putting immense pressure on agricultural producers, which is why states like Idaho need a stable labor force to protect our nation’s food supply and ensure farmers can continue to do their jobs.

Food security is national security, and without addressing the growing workforce, our nation's food supply would be jeopardized. How much are you willing to pay for a gallon of milk?

I have long advocated for reforming the H-2A visa program and enacting common-sense legislation to provide American agriculture with the stable, reliable, and legal workforce it needs. The keyword here is legal.

The legislative initiatives that I’ve supported and will continue to support do not grant amnesty. Let me be clear: I do not support amnesty for illegal aliens.

Instead, I support H-2A reforms that require undocumented workers to pay a fine for entering the country illegally. Additionally, I do not support the millions of illegal aliens who entered our country under the Biden administration being deemed as eligible for these kinds of labor jobs.

Additionally, reforming the H-2A visa program would not jeopardize American employment or prioritize illegal workers over American citizens.

The problem is these are jobs Americans don’t want. Last year, there were 398,000 H-2A applications nationwide. Only 182 Americans chose to fill those jobs. That is 0.045%.

Under current requirements, Americans receive priority. A search for domestic workers must be conducted first, and employers seeking to use the H-2A program must demonstrate that efforts to recruit American workers were unsuccessful. Enacting common-sense reform to this program would not change the current requirements.

Right now, under President Trump’s leadership and the most secure border in American history, we have the best chance of agricultural immigration reform. I’m confident that we can get a legislative fix across the finish line.

President Trump has emphasized his commitment to protecting America’s farmers while removing violent criminals who have no place in our country. The President sticks to his word, and I believe he is the only President with the courage to lead on this issue, but it’s up to Congress to act.

I represent one of the most productive dairy districts in the nation, and I take my responsibility to provide Idaho’s farmers and ranchers with a legislative solution to their workforce shortage seriously. Finding a bipartisan path forward that will protect our farms and our nation’s food supply is possible, and I will continue fighting to solve this issue.

Rep. Simpson Fights for Burley’s Industrial Wastewater Treatment Plant

Wed, 20 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON—Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson, a longtime member and former Chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, recently highlighted new federal funding for renovations of Burley’s industrial wastewater treatment plant. The United States Army Corps of Engineers, which is funded through the annual appropriations process, included funding for this project in its Fiscal Year 2026 Work Plan.

“I am pleased to see the Army Corps of Engineers include critical funding to upgrade Burley’s industrial wastewater treatment plan, authorized in the Water Resources Development Act of 2024 at my request” said Rep. Simpson. “This funding will improve water quality in the Magic Valley and support Burley’s economic growth. As a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee on Energy and Water Development, I have worked closely with the Army Corps of Engineers and have expressed how necessary this renovation project is for rural Idaho communities.”

“We sincerely appreciate Congressman Simpson’s pivotal role in securing federal support for Burley’s Industrial Wastewater Treatment Project, including his leadership in including a $20 million authorization for the project in WRDA 2024. By advocating for project funding in the FY26 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Work Plan and requesting additional investment in FY27, Congressman Simpson has done essential work to move this project forward. These efforts to improve Burley’s wastewater treatment capacity are essential for the health and development of our local agricultural community and small businesses,” said Burley City Administrator Brett Boyer.

This funding will be used for the design and construction of Phase 1A of upgrades at Burley’s industrial wastewater treatment plant, which will improve redundancy in the plant.

Rep. Simpson recently led a letter for the inclusion of upgrades with support from Idaho Senators Crapo and Risch. The full letter is available here.

The United States Army Corps of Engineers Fiscal Year 2026 Work Plan is available here.

Rep. Simpson Advances Funding for Repeater Site on Black Mountain

Tue, 19 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON—Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson highlighted the inclusion of $525,000 in funding for the Black Mountain Project 25 Repeater Site Project in Caribou County, Idaho, at his request through Community Project Funding (CPF) in the Fiscal Year 2027 Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill.

“The Caribou County Sheriff’s Office has made it abundantly clear that expanding coverage in Caribou County and in areas of Bingham and Bonneville counties will enhance law enforcement communications, which are currently limited in certain areas. Adding a repeater site will help close coverage gaps and strengthen first-responder communications. I will always advocate for funding in any way, shape, or form to support Idaho’s finest doing their jobs,” said Rep. Simpson.

“The Caribou County Sheriff's Office is excited to participate in the CJS FY27 repeater site project to improve and update the communication infrastructure at the Black Mountain Communications Site. Because Caribou County is a fairly large rural county, emergency services communication can be difficult and sometimes nonexistent. The Black Mountain project will greatly increase communication capabilities for all aspects of emergency services in southeastern Idaho. We are grateful for the efforts of Representative Simpson and his staff in making this project possible,” said Sheriff J Adam Mabey, Caribou County Sheriff's Office.

This funding would be used to add a Project 25 repeater to an existing tower on Black Mountain. The proposed project would establish an additional simulcast receiver to expand critical two-way radio coverage in areas that currently lack reliable 700 MHz trunked radio service. This would significantly improve communications coverage for the Caribou County Sheriff’s Office.

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 Black Mountain P25 Repeater Site Project is a part of the Fiscal Year 2027 Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. This measure has been approved by the House Appropriations Committee.

Rep. Simpson Advances Funding for Montpelier Police Department Radio Upgrade

Mon, 18 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON—Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson highlighted the inclusion of $66,000 in funding for the Montpelier Police Department Radio Upgrade Project in Montpelier, Idaho, at his request through Community Project Funding (CPF) in the Fiscal Year 2027 Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill.

“Several Idaho police officers have vocalized that outdated communication equipment for their department can result in problematic operational challenges. I hear these concerns and want our law enforcement officers to serve our communities to the best of their ability. I am proud to fight for these radio upgrades for Montpelier’s Police Department, so they have the resources they need to respond efficiently in emergencies,” said Rep. Simpson.

“On behalf of the Montpelier Police Department and the community we serve, I want to sincerely thank Congressman Simpson for his continued support of Idaho’s first responders,” said Chief Blake Wells of the Montpelier Police Department. “The funding Congressman Simpson helped secure will allow our department to purchase much-needed in-vehicle and handheld radios, improving our ability to communicate effectively and respond safely in critical situations. These upgrades are essential for officer safety, interoperability, and providing the highest level of service to our citizens. We greatly appreciate Congressman Simpson’s commitment to public safety and rural law enforcement agencies across Idaho.”

This funding will be used to replace its handheld and vehicle radio equipment with newer models. The Montpelier Police Department is currently using equipment that is over 10 years old.

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 Montpelier Police Department Radio Upgrade Project is a part of the Fiscal Year 2027 Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. This measure has been approved by the House Appropriations Committee.

Rep. Simpson Advances Funding for Handheld and Mobile Vehicle Radios for Bingham County Sheriff’s Office

Fri, 15 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON—Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson highlighted the inclusion of $440,000 in funding for the Bingham County Sheriff’s Office Mobile and Handheld Radio Update Project in Blackfoot, Idaho, at his request through Community Project Funding (CPF) in the Fiscal Year 2027 Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill.

“Improving communication among our law enforcement officers can truly save lives,” said Rep. Simpson. “When responding to emergencies, nothing is more important than for our law enforcement to be equipped with up-to-date resources. I join Idahoans and express my gratitude to our brave law enforcement officers for their tireless work in keeping our communities safe. As Idaho’s only appropriator, I take pride in advocating for funding to support these dedicated heroes and their service.”

“We are extremely thankful for Congressman Simpson’s support of Idaho First Responders. Funds secured by Congressman Simpson will allow us to make critical updates to our outdated radio units, both handheld and those that are mobile in vehicles. This technology is an increasingly large, daunting task for all First Responders to keep up with through local funding mechanisms, but it is a lifeline for us and those we serve. Congressman Simpson’s willingness to support us in emergency communications—when lives are on the line and every second counts—tells us that he clearly understands priorities and wants to keep Idahoans safe,” said Chief Deputy of Bingham County Sheriff’s Office Jordyn Nebeker.

This funding would be used to secure 30 handheld radio units and 25 mobile radio units for mission-critical Law Enforcement emergency communication needs. The Bingham County Sheriff's Office is experiencing a major need to make capital improvements to replace outdated and/or end-of-life handheld and mobile radios.

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 Bingham County Sheriff’s Office Mobile and Handheld Radio Update Project is a part of the Fiscal Year 2027 Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. This measure has been approved by the House Appropriations Committee.

Rep. Simpson Votes to Fully Fund Veterans Health Care and Benefits

Fri, 15 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON—Today, the United States House of Representatives passed the Fiscal Year 2027 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson supported this advancement. This bill champions America’s veterans by fully funding veterans’ health care programs and benefits. This legislation also supports military families, strengthens America’s defense, and supports the Trump administration’s policy initiatives.

“One of my top priorities in Congress is supporting our troops and veterans,” said Rep. Simpson. “By fully funding veterans’ health care programs and benefits, investing in mental health services, prioritizing funding for military family housing, and so much more, this legislation fulfills our promises to those who have sacrificed so greatly for our country. This is a must-pass bill each year to honor the brave men and women who have courageously served.”

Highlights of the bill include:

Fully funding veterans’ health care programs.
Fully funding veterans’ benefits and VA programs.
Protecting the 2nd Amendment rights of veterans, preventing VA from sending information to the FBI about veterans without a judge’s consent.
Supporting the Trump Administration’s efforts in improving mental health and suicide prevention among veterans.

The Fiscal Year 2027 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill keeps America’s promise to its veterans by fully funding veterans’ health care programs, benefits, and other critical VA programs. The measure was approved with a vote of 400 to 15.

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

Rep. Simpson Advances Funding for CWI’s River District Project

Thu, 14 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON—Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson highlighted the inclusion of $2,165,000 in funding for the College of Western Idaho River District Project in Boise, Idaho, at his request through Community Project Funding (CPF) in the Fiscal Year 2027 Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill.

“The College of Western Idaho’s new academic center is an investment in the future of career technical education, cybersecurity, business, and much more,” said Rep. Simpson. “As the new center is set to open next year, this funding will help the college purchase the resources necessary to be ready for classes that fall. I’m proud to support this project because it benefits Idaho students, education, and the workforce.”

“We appreciate Congressman Simpson's support for this important project, which will strengthen CWI's ability to serve more students at our Micron Academic Center in Boise,” said CWI President Gordon Jones. “This investment will expand access to Cybersecurity and Computer Science, Business, and other general education programs, helping more students build skills that lead directly to in-demand careers and support Idaho's workforce needs.”

This funding will help the College of Western Idaho purchase equipment at the new facility and provide students with modern labs, specialized institutional spaces, and advanced network infrastructure to support hands-on training, applied research, and industry-aligned learning environments.

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 College of Western Idaho River District Project is a part of the Fiscal Year 2027 Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. This measure has been approved by the House Appropriations Committee.