WASHINGTON— This week, the House Committee on Appropriations voted to advance the Fiscal Year 2024 Interior, Environment and Related Agencies Appropriations bill, which fully funds the Payments in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) program. Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson – Chairman of the House Interior and Environment Appropriations Subcommittee – authored the language that secures complete funding for the PILT program.  

“It is my honor to ensure funding for the PILT program,” said Rep. Simpson. “As Chairman of the Interior and Environment Appropriations Subcommittee, I have the unique opportunity to influence federal policies that directly impact Idaho and support rural counties. PILT programs are a lifeline for our local communities nationwide, and I am proud to continue to advocate for this critical funding.” 

The PILT program provides compensation to local governments for the loss of tax revenue resulting from the presence of federal land in their county or state. Funding for the PILT program is a part of the Fiscal Year 2024 funding package for the Department of the Interior, the Environmental Protection Agency, and Related Agencies. 

This funding package will now go to the full floor of the House of Representatives for a vote.