Representative Mike Simpson

The Simpson Standard

May 26th, 2024

Dear [salutation],

It was a busy week back in DC! The House Committee on Appropriations—which I am a member of—voted to advance the FY25 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. This bill fully funds veterans' health care programs and benefits, supports military families, and strengthens America's defense.

Veterans in Idaho and across our nation rely on veterans' health and housing facilities to live comfortably and receive the care they have earned after serving our country. That's why I authored language in the FY25 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Bill Report that directs the Secretary of the VA to consult with affected stakeholders and veterans impacted by the State Veterans Home Construction Grant Program projects approved prior to the Build America, Buy America Act.

ICYMI: Read my latest op-ed on the Farm Workforce Modernization Act. Agriculture is not just a vital part of Idaho's history and culture - it is the very backbone of our state. I have considered it my duty to champion important Idaho priorities to ensure our state's farmers and ranchers thrive today and secure a prosperous future for generations to come. You can read more below.

Supporting Our Veterans

Our nation made a promise to care for and support those who have courageously defended our freedoms. The FY25 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill upholds that commitment by fully funding veterans' health care programs, benefits, and all other veterans' related programs.

Since coming to Congress, supporting our veterans and advocating for the brave men and women in uniform has been one of my top priorities. I am proud to continue these efforts by supporting this bill, and I look forward to voting in favor of this measure as it advances to the House floor.

Prioritizing Idaho State Veterans Homes

The language I worked to secure in the FY25 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill Report urges the VA to engage with affected Idaho State Veterans Home voices to ensure our veterans are not negatively impacted.

I have been proud to advocate for Idaho veterans and these critical facilities, and I will continue to do so until we find a solution.

Simpson's Ag Corner

It's simple: American agriculture needs the Farm Workforce Modernization Act.

Adopting policy reforms like the FWMA would begin much-needed and long-awaited reform for agricultural labor, bringing stability to farmers, improving food security, and more.

Read the full op-ed here.