WASHINGTON—Today, the House Committee on Appropriations voted to advance the Fiscal Year 2025 Interior, Environment and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson–Chairman of the House Interior and Environment Appropriations Subcommittee– released the following statement after the Committee approved the bill.  

“The Fiscal Year 2025 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Act helps reduce energy costs, protects American jobs, and ensures that we can continue access to our public lands to recreate, hunt, and develop on our natural resources. While reining in unnecessary spending, this bill also directs funding where it is needed most. This includes fully funding the Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) program, making great strides to address critical needs across Indian Country, and permanently fixes wildland firefighter pay. I am grateful to Chairman Cole for his leadership, and I am pleased we are one step closer to getting this bill across the finish line,” said Rep. Simpson.

“Our nation is full of natural wonders that provide everything from power to recreational enjoyment. The FY25 Interior measure demonstrates proper stewardship of these vital resources. From the protection of forests and traditional hunting and fishing to U.S. energy and mineral independence, the impact of this bill on everyday life is extensive. As the first Native American to lead this committee, I commend the strong investments that uphold our nation’s trust and treaty responsibilities to our tribal communities. We also provide a permanent pay fix for our brave federal wildland firefighters who protect our public lands and communities. Chairman Simpson proved that we can rein in big government without sacrificing the essential needs of the country," said House Committee on Appropriations Chairman Cole.

Highlights of the bill include:

• Reduces EPA funding by 20%.
• Expands access to critical minerals.
• Fully funds the PILT program.
• Protects oil and gas production.
• Limits the abuse of the Endangered Species Act.
• Includes a permanent wildland firefighter pay fix.

The measure was approved by the Committee with a vote of 29 to 25.