WASHINGTON—Today, the House Committee on Appropriations voted to advance the Fiscal Year 2026 Interior, Environment and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson–Chairman of the House Interior and Environment Appropriations Subcommittee–released the following statement after the Committee approved the bill.

“Advancing the Fiscal Year 2026 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Act is the next step toward establishing American energy dominance, reversing harmful Biden-era regulations, and ensuring access to, and protection of, our public lands for recreation and hunting. While reducing spending and rightsizing federal agencies, I am proud that this legislation directs critical funding where it is needed most. This includes fully funding the Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) program and prioritizing funding for Indian Country and Wildland Fire Management. 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.

"With today’s full committee approval, we are taking decisive action to steward America’s natural resources and protect taxpayer dollars. This bill responsibly manages our public lands and recreation, supports wildfire response, reins in wasteful spending, and rolls back Biden-era regulations that hamper American strength and jobs. With a focus on U.S. energy dominance, we bolster our national security and expand access to critical minerals. We also uphold our commitments to Native American communities. Chairman Simpson has guided a measure that delivers results for America’s future, and I commend his work and leadership," said House Committee on Appropriations Chairman Cole.

Highlights of the bill include:

• Reduces EPA funding by 23%.
• Expands access to critical minerals.
• Fully funds the PILT program.
• Protects oil and gas production.
• Prohibits rulings used to weaponize the Endangered Species Act against land users and energy producers.
• Prioritizes funding for Tribes and Wildland Fire Management.

Subcommittee Chairman Simpson's opening remarks are available here.

The measure was approved by the Committee with a vote of 33 to 28.