Congressman Mike Simpson today announced the introduction of HR 3825, the Newborn Screening Saves Lives Act of 2007. This act will improve the newborn screening process. Newborn screening in the United States is not uniform. In fact, more than 1,000 babies are born each year with a detectable and treatable disorder that goes unscreened. And unfortunately, too often inadequate follow-up… Read more »

Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson joined colleagues in requesting improvements to outdated retirement benefits for members of the National Guard and Reserve. Simpson signed a bipartisan letter addressed to leadership of the House Armed Services Committee pointing out the central role that our National Guard and Reserve troops play in national defense and asking them to modernize their… Read more »

In today’s rapidly changing and increasingly competitive world, Americans must constantly look for ways to make our country stronger. For decades, we have been the world’s clear superpower. Suddenly, countries such as China, India and Russia are emerging as major players on the global economic scene, forcing us to sit up and take notice. We are not guaranteed our status as a world… Read more »

Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson met with Director Jim Nussle of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) today to urge the White House's cooperation in reauthorizing the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act.   The Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act, which expired in 2006, provided an alternative source of education funding for communities… Read more »

Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson today announced his co-sponsorship of H.R. 3779, the Andrew Larochelle God, Family, and Country Act of 2007. The legislation would codify a policy allowing inclusion of religious references on flag certificates for flags flown over the U.S. Capitol.    “I was dismayed to learn about a policy of the Office of the Architect of the Capitol that prohibits the… Read more »

Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson testified today before the House Agriculture Committee regarding disaster conditions in Idaho and their impacts on agriculture. "Idaho’s agricultural producers are facing significant trials due to catastrophic fires and severe drought," Simpson said. "This summer was too hot and too dry for too long. I have seen barley fields in Idaho that appeared… Read more »

In a letter to the House Appropriations Committee, Idaho Congressmen Mike Simpson (R-ID), Greg Walden (R-OR), and Sanford Bishop (D-GA) led the effort to ask Chairman David Obey (D-WN) to approve a variety of disaster assistance measures to assist states impacted by the devastating drought and catastrophic wildfires. The coalition includes more than 40 members of Congress from both sides… Read more »

Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson released the following statement regarding Senator Larry Craig’s decision today:   “Sen. Craig’s announcement gives the people of Idaho some certainty for the next 15 months. I remain convinced this delegation will continue to effectively represent Idaho as we turn our focus to more pressing matters.”     Read more »

Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson joined Members of Congress in cosponsoring legislation to honor the National Guard. H.Res. 542 expresses the unconditional support of the House of Representatives for the members of the National Guard. The National Guard is the United States oldest component of the Armed Forces and one of the nation's longest enduring institutions.  The men and women who… Read more »

In September, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson requested the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to not reduce Boise City’s funding under a grant program geared toward housing improvements, economic development, neighborhood revitalization, and other community development activities. Last week, Congressman Simpson was notified that the funds will continue to be allocated to the… Read more »