WASHINGTON—Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson highlighted the inclusion of $4,000,000 in funding for the Idaho Accelerator Center Upgrades Project in Pocatello, Idaho, at his request through Community Project Funding (CPF) in the Fiscal Year 2025 Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. 

“Idaho State University and its researchers are building a remarkable capability to produce medical isotopes at the Idaho Accelerator Center,” said Rep. Simpson. “The University addresses a long-term demand, positioning Pocatello as a national hub for this critical medical technology. As a longtime supporter of the Idaho Accelerator Center, I have been proud to secure funding for this facility throughout my time in Congress. I am pleased this year’s funding will continue to help the center meet our nation's demand for medical isotopes and significantly advance nuclear research.”

“Idaho State University is excited to learn that the $4 million community project request for the Idaho Accelerator Center is included in the House budget. This will enable ISU to advance our research capabilities and contribute to the scientific community in meaningful ways,” said Robert W. Wagner, ISU President.

“Upgrading the Idaho Accelerator Center's infrastructure and capability further strengthens ISU's critical role in linking science and technical education with economically important research. The IAC can further its mission of supporting leading edge research at several national laboratories, and provide a unique facility for the creative minds of the future,” said Jon Stoner, Director of the Idaho Accelerator Center.

“Congressman Simpson's ongoing support of Idaho's university-based research serves national interests. We appreciate his commitment to ensuring that Idaho's research capacity can meet the needs of today and a rapidly changing tomorrow. ISU students and faculty will benefit for many years to come,” Martin Blair, ISU Vice President for Research and Economic Development.

The Idaho Accelerator Center operates particle accelerators in support of Department of Energy and other national laboratory research objectives in nuclear science, new reactor designs, and production of medical isotopes. This funding would be used to upgrade the Center including modifications to shielding, new hot cells for safety and construction of a larger particle accelerator within the facility. This new equipment will enable isotope research at a very detailed and precise level.

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 Idaho Accelerator Center Upgrades Project is a part of the Fiscal Year 2025 Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. This measure has been approved by the House Appropriations Committee.