Representative Mike Simpson

The Simpson Standard

May 5th, 2024

Dear [salutation],

Before I dive into the legislative updates, I want to take a moment to express my deep respect and gratitude for our servicemembers. This month, as we observe Military Appreciation Month, let us remember and honor all those who have answered the call to serve our nation, protect American liberty, and defend freedom. May God bless our military members and our veterans.

Many Americans—including my constituents in Idaho—consider the border crisis as their number one concern. I proudly voted YES on condemning the Biden administration's failed open-border policies. Idahoans deserve to have their voices heard. Learn more about this resolution below.

Also, this week, the House passed the Western Economic Security Today (WEST) Act- legislation I proudly cosponsored. This bill withdraws the BLM's recently finalized “Public Lands Rule” and would prevent future issuance of a substantially similar rule.

Denouncing Biden's Immigration Policies

President Biden's failed open-border policies have:

Fueled a catastrophic wave of violent crime nationwide.
Created an unprecedented fentanyl crisis that is plaguing our communities.
Turned every state into a border state.

This week, I voted in favor of a resolution recognizing the Biden administration's executive actions that have created the border crisis, denounces these open border policies, and urges the administration to immediately implement policies to end the crisis.

What's Happening in Washington?

WEST Act

I was proud to support the WEST Act on the House floor this week.

The BLM's recent rule will significantly impact how Idahoans interact and enjoy the 12 million acres of BLM land across the state. For decades, Idahoans have cherished the concept of multiple use on public lands and have proven to be responsible stewards. The rule jeopardizes years of successful management and collaboration by the very people who rely on our federal lands for ranching, grazing, recreation, and more.

As Chairman of the House Interior and Environment Appropriations Subcommittee—which has jurisdiction over the BLM—I will continue to push back against this misguided rule.

Appropriations Update

It was another busy week for the House Committee on Appropriations! The Committee held 15 Fiscal Year 2025 Budget hearings, including three budget hearings for the subcommittee I chair—Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies.

✅ EPA

✅ Indian Health Service

✅ Arts and Humanities

Watch highlights from the EPA hearing here.