Simpson, Mike RSS Articles

Rep. Simpson Advances Funding for Milner Dam Rehabilitation

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON—Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson highlighted the inclusion of $15,000,000 in funding for the Milner Dam Rehabilitation Project located in south central Idaho at his request through Community Project Funding (CPF) in the Fiscal Year 2027 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill.

“I’ve spoken to mayors, county commissioners, state elected officials, and countless others who all agree that the Milner Dam is one of the most important water control structures in southern Idaho,” said Rep. Simpson. “During this critical time for water in our state, repairing and rehabilitating Milner Dam is of utmost importance for several southeastern Idaho rural communities. Advancing this funding will benefit 500,000 acres of irrigated farmland, support local residents and jobs, and ensure that future generations have access to safe drinking water. I'm proud to advocate for this project.”

“Milner Dam is a critical structure for the management of the Snake River in Idaho. We are grateful for Congressman Simpson’s support to obtain funding through the Community Project Funding program, which will be matched with state and local funds, for the rehabilitation of this 121-year-old dam,” said Jeff Raybould, Chairman of the Idaho Water Resource Board.

This funding will be used to repair and rehabilitate the dam to ensure continued flood protection for surrounding communities, safeguard more than 500,000 acres of irrigated farmland, and maintain the dam’s critical role in supporting 50–70% of the Idaho Water Resource Board’s aquifer managed recharge program for the Eastern Snake Plain Aquifer (ESPA), the area’s sole source potable water supply.

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 Milner Dam Rehabilitation Project is a part of the Fiscal Year 2027 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. This measure has been approved by the House Appropriations Committee.

Rep. Simpson Advances Funding for Dry Creek Bridge Replacement

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON—Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson highlighted the inclusion of $5,833,000 in funding for the Dry Creek Bridge Replacement Project near Murtaugh, Idaho, at his request through Community Project Funding (CPF) in the Fiscal Year 2027 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill.

“Replacing the nearly 95-year-old Dry Creek Bridge is long overdue,” said Rep. Simpson. “Given the growth in Twin Falls County and throughout our state, improving and replacing this existing bridge will enhance public safety. I’ve spoken with the Idaho State Police, the Rock Creek Fire District, and several other local organizations, and there is a common consensus that this new bridge will serve the community and provide long-term stability.”

“This is a needed project on US-30 as the Dry Creek Bridge serves communities, recreation, and commerce including our important agriculture industry. We are grateful for the consideration and attention from Representative Simpson on this project and look forward to completing it,” said Idaho Transportation Department District 4 Head Engineer Jesse Barrus.

This funding will be used to replace the Dry Creek Bridge, as it is nearing the end of its service life. The current narrow lanes and outdated design limit capacity and safety. Replacing it will widen and elevate the structure, improve sight distance, modernize guardrails, and improve the safety of the bridge

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 Dry Creek Bridge Replacement Project is a part of the Fiscal Year 2027 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. This measure has been approved by the House Appropriations Committee.

Rep. Simpson Advances World Center for Birds of Prey Funding

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON—Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson highlighted the inclusion of $8,500,000 in funding for the Global Conservation Education and Condor Recovery Center Project in Boise, Idaho, at his request through Community Project Funding (CPF) in the Fiscal Year 2027 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill.

“The Peregrine Fund and Boise State University's collaborative efforts in raptor conservation, science, and species recovery will position Idaho as a continued leader in this field,” said Rep. Simpson. “As a longtime supporter of Boise State University, The Peregrine Fund, and the critical work that they both do, I am proud to advance funding for the proposed recovery center. The late Dirk Kempthorne, one of Idaho's most effective public servants and a dear friend of mine, championed species recovery efforts and strongly supported this project.”

“We are grateful to Congressman Simpson for securing this vital funding, which will help protect and preserve Idaho's birds of prey — magnificent animals that are deeply woven into our state's cultural identity and essential to the health of our ecosystems. This investment will advance critical scientific research and bring meaningful educational outreach to communities across Idaho, ensuring that future generations understand and appreciate the irreplaceable role these birds play in our natural world,” said Boise State University Vice President of Research and Economic Development Dr. Nancy Glenn.

“Congressman Simpson has long recognized that The Peregrine Fund's approach — rigorous science, durable partnerships, and measurable results — is exactly how endangered species get recovered. This investment doesn't just support the condor; it establishes Idaho as a global center for collaborative conservation excellence and ensures the next generation of scientists carries that model to ecosystems around the world,” said Chris Parish, President & CEO, The Peregrine Fund.

This funding will be used to enhance the partnership of Boise State University and the Peregrine Fund organization by constructing and renovating certain facilities and infrastructure at the World Center for Birds of Prey outside of Boise, Idaho.

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 Global Conservation Education and Condor Recovery Center Project is a part of the Fiscal Year 2027 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. This measure has been approved by the House Appropriations Committee.

Rep. Simpson Advances Funding for Idaho Water Improvement Projects

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON—Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson–Chairman of the House Interior and Environment Appropriations Subcommittee–highlighted the inclusion of $13,200,000 in funding for the State and Tribal Assistance Grants (STAG) for the cities of Carey, Driggs, Fort Hall, Grace, Rupert, and Twin Falls, Idaho, at his request through Community Project Funding (CPF) in the Fiscal Year 2027 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill.

“Community Project Funding is one of the most effective ways elected officials can deliver meaningful results for our communities,” said Rep. Simpson. “This funding for water infrastructure improvement projects in small and rural communities is not ‘wasteful spending,’ it’s vital for ensuring our neighborhoods have clean drinking water and safe infrastructure. As Idaho’s only appropriator, I will always advocate for bringing money back to our state, and I am proud of the collaborative effort involving Carey, Driggs, Fort Hall, Grace, Rupert, and Twin Falls, with my office.”

Carey

“On behalf of the City of Carey, we sincerely appreciate Congressman Mike Simpson’s support of the proposed wastewater system improvements project. This critical investment will correct existing system deficiencies, strengthen long-term infrastructure resilience, and provide lasting value to residents, businesses, and visitors. It will also help protect important water resources, including the Little Wood River and its tributaries, reduce impacts to the Eastern Snake River Plain aquifer, and improve the reliability of essential infrastructure within Blaine County and the State of Idaho. Overall, this investment reflects a strong commitment to public health and environmental stewardship, delivering enduring value for generations to come,” said Carey Mayor Logan Davis.

Driggs

“Many thanks to Congressman Simpson for the $1.35M grant through the Community Project! This will help fund our Wastewater Treatment Plant upgrade and offset the utility bills for our residents and local businesses,” said Driggs Mayor August Christensen.

Fort Hall

“This funding addresses a critical infrastructure need on the Fort Hall Indian Reservation to improve our wastewater system while protecting public health and supporting the long-term well-being of our community. We appreciate Congressman Simpson for recognizing the needs of the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes and for his continued advocacy on behalf of infrastructure projects that benefit our reservation and the people he serves,” said Shoshone-Bannock Tribes Chairwoman Donna Thompson.

Grace

“This project would ensure the community of 930 has a sufficient water supply now and into the future. I, as Mayor of the City of Grace, would like to express my gratitude and appreciation to Congressman Simpson and his office for their diligent service to rural Idaho to obtain grant financing for the City of Grace’s potable water system improvement. A recent engineering evaluation of our springs and transmission water lines to the city storage tanks was projected to be between $15,000,000 and $16,000,000 to complete the necessary upgrades. Once all upgrades are in place, the City of Grace is putting in place an ongoing maintenance program that will reduce the cost of upgrading in the future,” said Grace Mayor David Pristupa.

Rupert

“Rural infrastructure is one of the defining challenges facing communities across Idaho. When aging wastewater systems begin to fail, the burden on residents and local businesses can become overwhelming. This investment will help Rupert continue operating a wastewater system that is essential not only for homes and families, but also for the agricultural processing industries that sustain much of southern Idaho’s economy. Congressman Simpson's attention to this growing Idaho problem is insightful and very much appreciated,” said Rupert Mayor Tammy Jones.

“In the Idaho Legislature, I have consistently advocated for greater recognition of the infrastructure pressures facing rural communities. Agricultural communities like Rupert provide enormous economic value to our state, but they also carry expensive infrastructure responsibilities tied to food processing and other ‘wet industries.’ This federal support, made possible by Congressman Simpson, is an important acknowledgment that rural Idaho matters and that these communities deserve the tools necessary to succeed,” said President Pro Tempore Kelly Anthon.

Twin Falls

“Twin Falls appreciates Congressman Mike Simpson’s continued leadership and advocacy for Idaho communities through this $1.5 million investment in critical wastewater infrastructure. As our community continues to grow, projects like this help ensure we are prepared to support new housing, future job creation, and long-term economic opportunity while maintaining the quality of life that makes Twin Falls such a great place to live and work. Infrastructure investment is ultimately about creating opportunities for families and businesses to prosper, and we are grateful for Congressman Simpson’s partnership in helping position Twin Falls for the future,” said Twin Falls Mayor Jason Brown.

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.

These STAG projects are a part of the Fiscal Year 2027 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. This measure has been approved by the House Appropriations Committee.

Rep. Simpson Supports America's Farmers and Ranchers in Agriculture Appropriations Bill

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON—Today, the United States House of Representatives passed the Fiscal Year 2027 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration Appropriations Bill. Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson supported this advancement. This bill champions America’s farmers, agriculture, and rural communities, protects our nation’s food and drug supply, and ensures low-income Americans have access to nutrition programs.

“From strengthening America’s food supply by supporting the farmers and ranchers who feed our country to making critical investments where rural communities need it the most, I am proud to support the Fiscal Year 2027 Agriculture Appropriations Bill once again. I am grateful to see this measure include critical funding for the USDA-ARS University of Idaho Aberdeen Research and Extension Center, which I proudly fought for. I will always fight for Idaho agriculture and priorities,” said Rep. Simpson.

Highlights of the bill include:

Continues investments in agriculture research, rural development, loan programs, and animal and plant health programs.
Reins in harmful Biden-era regulations that dictate how poultry and livestock producers raise and market their animals.
Addresses foreign ownership of United States agricultural land.
Supports the Trump Administration’s public health priorities.

The Fiscal Year 2027 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration Appropriations Bill includes Congressman Simpson’s Community Project Funding (CPF) request for $5,000,000 for the USDA-ARS University of Idaho Aberdeen Research and Extension Center Potato Breeding Facilities Project.

This funding package will now go to the Senate for further consideration.

Chairman Simpson's FY27 Interior and Environment Appropriations Bill Advances in House Appropriations Committee

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON—Today, the House Committee on Appropriations voted to advance the Fiscal Year 2027 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.

“As Chairman of the House Interior and Environment Appropriations Subcommittee, I promised to write a fiscally responsible bill that rightsizes federal agencies, supports the Trump Administration's policy goals, and reduces regulatory burdens. I am thrilled that this critical legislation does so while continuing to protect public lands and programs vital to states and local communities. This bill once again fully funds the Payments in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) program, prioritizes funding for federal wildland firefighter pay, and honors our trust and treaty responsibilities with the Tribes. The advancement of this full-year spending measure is a step in the right direction, and I thank Chairman Cole and my colleagues for their support,” said Rep. Simpson.

“America’s heritage has always been shaped by the lands and resources entrusted to the nation. The responsibility before us is to manage them wisely and ensure they remain a source of strength and opportunity for generations to come. The FY27 Interior and Environment bill answers that challenge with strong stewardship. It manages our public lands responsibly, unleashes domestic energy and mineral production, and strengthens wildfire response. It reflects our commitment to upholding our sacred trust and treaty oaths to protect Native American communities. And it refocuses agencies on their core missions by reducing unnecessary regulatory burdens and improving accountability. Chairman Simpson ensured that each provision and investment reinforces America's natural, cultural, and environmental resources. With the bill now reported out of the full committee, his hard work has advanced a commonsense vision for stewardship, opportunity, and long-term prosperity,” said House Committee on Appropriations Chairman Tom Cole.

Highlights of the bill include:

Reduces EPA funding by 20%.
Protects access to public lands.
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 Fiscal Year 2027 Interior, Environment and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill will now go to the full floor of the House of Representatives for further consideration.

Rep. Simpson Secures INL Priorities in Energy and Water Appropriations Bill

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON—The House Committee on Appropriations voted to advance the Fiscal Year 2027 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.

“America’s one-of-a-kind nuclear energy laboratory is right here at home at Idaho National Laboratory. Enhancing the Lab’s infrastructure and growing research and development are investments in both energy and national security. Throughout my time in Congress, I have been proud to support INL's efforts to advance our nation's nuclear technology. Fighting for these priorities and securing federal funding would not have been possible without the appropriations process. As Idaho’s only appropriator, I will always fight for priorities that serve our state and national interests,” said Rep. Simpson.

“Nuclear energy continues to gain bipartisan momentum across the country, and we are grateful for Congress's sustained commitment to advancing America's nuclear leadership,” said Idaho National Laboratory Director John Wagner. "We especially thank Representative Mike Simpson for his continued championship of INL and the broader nuclear enterprise. His leadership ensures the laboratory remains equipped to deliver the research, testing, and demonstration capabilities the nation needs as nuclear deployment accelerates.”

Highlights of the bill include:

$392M for INL infrastructure and operations.
$40M for INL’s Microreactor Application Research Validation and Evaluation (MARVEL) project.
$65M for the National Reactor Innovation Center.
$19M for the Center for Used Fuel Research 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.

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

Rep. Simpson Cosponsors Resolution to Recognize America 250 Betsy Ross Flag

Tue, 26 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON—Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson cosponsored a resolution to designate the America 250 Betsy Ross Flag as an official flag of the United States, and therefore eligible to be displayed from all United States federal government buildings, properties, installations, and military bases at home and abroad. This resolution is sponsored by Rep. Barry Loudermilk (R-GA).

“The most recognized and powerful national symbol is the American flag. Old Glory represents freedom and independence. As our great nation approaches its 250th birthday, there is no better way to celebrate than by proudly flying the America 250 Betsy Ross Flag for all to see,” said Rep. Simpson.

The full text of this resolution is available here.

Rep. Simpson Cosponsors Resolution Honoring Memorial Day

Mon, 25 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON—Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson cosponsored a Memorial Day resolution honoring the men and women of the Armed Forces and recognizing the more than one million Americans who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the United States. This resolution is sponsored by Rep. Michael Guest (R-MS).

“As we approach our country’s 250th birthday, we are reminded that freedom is not free. This Memorial Day, and always, we pause to honor and remember those who gave their lives to protect the freedoms that we have enjoyed for the past two and a half centuries. I join Idahoans in expressing my gratitude to the service members who made the ultimate sacrifice, as well as to the brave men and women of the Armed Forces around this great country,” said Rep. Simpson.

The full text of this resolution is available here.

Rep. Simpson Joins Letter Pressing for Action to Protect U.S. Sugar Producers from Unfair Foreign Trade Practices

Thu, 21 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON—Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson signed a letter in support of efforts by U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) Ambassador Jamieson Greer to utilize a Section 301 investigation into unfair and discriminatory trade practices by foreign sugar-producing countries. In the letter, the members call on USTR to take appropriate action to protect American sugarbeet and sugarcane farmers, processors, refiners, and factory workers from being undercut by discriminatory foreign trade practices. This bipartisan and bicameral letter, led by U.S. Representatives Julie Fedorchak (R-ND) and Troy Carter (R-LA) and U.S. Senators John Hoeven (R-ND) and Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), has support from over 110 members of Congress.

“The sugar farming families and workers across our States support more than 151,000 jobs in more than two dozen states while generating more than $23 billion in economic activity each year. We are gravely concerned about the surge in unfairly traded foreign sugar imports, which, along with higher input costs, are plunging the domestic industry into crisis and presenting an imminent threat to the industry’s long-term viability,” wrote the members of Congress.

“U.S. sugar policy is a necessary response to a global playing field where foreign countries routinely sell sugar at well below the world cost of production… In the past 10 years, 14 percent of our nation’s beet sugar processing facilities and 12 percent of our domestic cane sugar mills and refineries have closed, including the complete loss of sugarbeet farming in California (2025) and sugarcane farming in Hawaii (2016) and Texas (2024). Absent action to protect the domestic sugar industry from discriminatory foreign trade practices, these continued revenue losses will only mount, threatening the future existence of domestic U.S. sugar production. We strongly urge you to investigate these unfair trading practices that disadvantage our domestic sugar industry and take decisive action as appropriate.”

The full letter is available here.

The following organizations have endorsed the letter: Amalgamated Sugar Company, American Crystal Sugar Company, American Farm Bureau Federation, American Sugar Alliance, American Sugar Cane League, American Sugar Refining, Inc., American Sugarbeet Growers Association, Big Horn Basin Beet Growers Association, Big Horn County Sugar Beet Growers Association, Colorado Sugarbeet Growers Association, Elwyhee Beet Growers Association, Florida Crystals Corporation, Florida Sugar Cane League, Michigan Sugar Company, Minn-Dak Farmers Cooperative, National Council of Farmer Cooperatives, National Farmers Union, NebCo Beet Growers Association, Nebraska Sugarbeet Growers Association, Red River Valley Sugarbeet Growers Association, Snake River Sugarbeet Growers, Southern- Minnesota Beet Sugar Cooperative, Southern Montana Sugarbeet Growers Association, Sugarcane Growers Cooperative of Florida, US Beet Sugar Association, US Sugar, Western Sugar Cooperative, Wheatland Beet Growers Association, and the Wyoming Sugar Company.