WASHINGTON—The House Committee on Appropriations voted to advance the Fiscal Year 2026 Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson supported this advancement and secured critical funding for the Idaho National Laboratory (INL). This bill champions America’s nuclear deterrent and strengthens national security, restores energy dominance, and supports the Trump administration’s policy initiatives.

“The Idaho National Laboratory is a world leader in nuclear energy research and a hub for remarkable advancements in nuclear technologies,” said Rep. Simpson. “INL has long worked to advance America’s nuclear technology and strengthen our national security, and I have been proud to support their efforts in Congress. I am confident that the future of nuclear energy is bright under President Trump and Secretary Wright. As a longtime member and former Chairman of this critical subcommittee, I am pleased to see this legislation expand America’s nuclear capabilities and address the future of nuclear energy. I look forward to seeing this bill cross the finish line.” 

Highlights of the bill include:

• Provides funding for INL’s infrastructure and operations.
• Provides funding for INL’s Microreactor Application Research Validation and Evaluation (MARVEL) project.
• Provides funding for the Demonstration of Microreactor Experiments (DOME) Test Bed at INL.
• Funding for a variety of advanced reactor construction and demonstrations.
• Funding for further research and development of advanced Tri-structural Isotropic (TRISO) and High-Assay Low Enriched Uranium (HALEU) reactor fuel.

The measure was approved by the Committee with a vote of 35 to 27.

This funding package will now go to the full floor of the House of Representatives for further consideration.