{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where chamber = \"House\", state = \"ID\" and year = 2026 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402079", "The United States Space Academy Should Go to Idaho. Here\u2019s Why.", "2026-09-30", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "This August, we both had the opportunity to join Idaho National Laboratory (INL) Director John Wagner in welcoming NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman to Idaho Falls.\n\nAdministrator Isaacman\u2019s visit was part of his nationwide effort to see firsthand the people and institutions that are shaping America\u2019s future in space. His stop in Idaho highlighted something we already know well \u2014 some of the nation\u2019s most consequential work in space is happening right here at home.\n\nThat is why Idaho should be part of the conversation about where the United States Space Academy takes shape.\n\nAmericans are explorers by nature, among the most adventurous the world has ever known. When President John F. Kennedy stood at Rice University and declared in his famous speech that \u201cwe would go to the moon, not because it was easy, but because it was hard,\u201d he united a country behind space exploration.\n\nGoing to the moon was never just about reaching another world. Instead, it generated economic activity and inventions, but more importantly, it brought us together as an opportunistic nation.\n\nToday, America faces another moment of opportunity.\n\nPresident Donald Trump\u2019s second term has been about American greatness and innovation. His recent executive order establishing the Presidential Commission on the United States Space Academy is a fantastic idea to cultivate the next generation\u2019s interest in space.\n\nThe EO recognizes the need to prepare the next generation of astronauts, scientists, engineers, and much more for the space domain.\n\nAs the Commission considers how and where to build this institution, the traditional aerospace centers will understandably be part of the discussion. Texas, Florida, and Alabama, among others, have a substantial reason to be the big dogs in the discussion.\n\nBut Idaho shouldn\u2019t be ruled out.\n\nThanks largely to INL, Idaho has expertise in space nuclear technology. Since the early 2000s, INL has assembled generators that were both fueled and tested at the Lab and are currently powering the Mars Science Laboratory Curiosity rover, the Pluto New Horizons, and the Perseverance Rover.\n\nResearch and development at INL is nothing like anything else in the universe, no pun intended. As the nation\u2019s center for nuclear energy research, INL powers exploration of the Solar System and does what people once thought was impossible.\n\nNASA and INL\u2019s longstanding partnership and continued development of nuclear technologies will power our future on Earth and beyond.\n\nIdaho also has the resources to prepare for the next generation of space leadership.\n\nBoise State University, Idaho State University, and the University of Idaho are teaching students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics \u2014 all fields that can contribute to America\u2019s space workforce.\n\nOur educational institutions are building STEM pathways for students. These pathways can lead to long-term, successful careers. Some scientists and astronauts have already found opportunities to work, teach, and live in Idaho.\n\nOur goal is not to convince the Commission, Americans, or even Idahoans that the academy belongs in Idaho. Instead, our state offers several important connections to the future of space exploration, and we shouldn\u2019t rule out those contributions.\n\nWe have the experience and expertise that can power future missions. We also have the resources and environment where research can thrive.\n\nThe next chapter of space exploration will require talent from different parts of our great nation. Idaho is ready to help write it.", 1, "2026-10-01T11:23:28Z", "2026-10-01T11:25:15Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402081", "Rep. Simpson Releases Statement on 50th Anniversary of the Hyde Amendment", "2026-09-30", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson released the following statement on the 50th anniversary of the Hyde Amendment, which prohibits federal funding of elective abortions. Congressman Simpson has long advocated against taxpayer-funded abortions and recently cosponsored three pro-life bills, reaffirming his commitment to protecting the unborn.\n\n\u201cThe Hyde Amendment has saved millions of precious American lives for fifty years,\u201d said Rep. Simpson. \u201cThere is no right in the Constitution to force me, or anyone else who believes that abortion is morally wrong, to take money from my pocket and fund abortions. I am unapologetically pro-life, and I will continue to support legislation that recognizes the sanctity of human life and supports mothers.\u201d\n\nDetails on the pro-life bills are below:\n\nH.R. 7 - No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion and Abortion Full Disclosure Act. This legislation permanently applies the Hyde principle to all federal funding and requires clear disclosure of abortion coverage in health plans.\n\nH.R. 6466 - Forced Abortion Prevention and Accountability Act. This legislation creates federal penalties for giving abortion drugs to a woman without her informed consent and strengthens protections against coercion and abuse.\n\nH.R. 685 - SAVE Moms and Babies Act. This legislation reinstates key safety standards for abortion drugs, prevents mail\u2011order abortion and future abortion drug approvals.\n\nCongressman Mike Simpson also signed a resolution recognizing the 50th Anniversary of the Hyde Amendment. The resolution celebrates the estimated 2.6 million lives the Hyde Amendment has saved since first enacted on September 30, 1976. It honors the enduring legacy of Rep. Hyde; recognizes the noble efforts of pro-life advocates, organizations, and Members of Congress who have worked to retain the Hyde Amendment in law for 5 decades; and reemphasizes the inherent dignity and worth of each unborn child. This resolution is sponsored by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ).", 1, "2026-10-01T11:23:28Z", "2026-10-01T11:25:15Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2026/09/24/fulcher-announces-26-million-returned-to-idahoans-through-casework/", "Fulcher Announces $26 Million Returned to Idahoans Through Casework", "2026-09-24", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 24, 2026\n\nCONTACT: Nikki.gooden@mail.house.gov\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher (Idaho-01) announced that $26,414,108 has been returned to Idahoans through casework. This is money owed to constituents that was being held by a federal agency.\n\nThrough his constituent services casework team, Congressman Fulcher\u2019s office has closed more than 7,592 cases, with agencies such as the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Social Security Administration, and Department of Veterans Affairs most often involved.\n\n\u201cSince arriving in Congress, I\u2019m proud to share that through my office\u2019s casework efforts, we have helped return more than $26 million to hardworking Idahoans in the First Congressional District,\u201d said Congressman Fulcher. \u201cIt is an honor to serve the people of the First District and work alongside my team to help constituents navigate issues with federal agencies. I am proud of the work our team does to make the everyday lives of Idahoans better.\u201d\n\nResidents of the First District are encouraged to contact Congressman Fulcher\u2019s office at (208) 888-3188 or visit https://fulcher.house.gov/services/help-with-a-federal-agency/ if they are having trouble getting a timely response from a federal agency or feel they have been treated unfairly.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-25T10:04:52Z", "2026-09-25T10:05:46Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402076", "Rep. Simpson Honors Gold Star Families Remembrance Week", "2026-09-21", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson cosponsored a congressional resolution designating September 20th through September 26th, 2026, as Gold Star Families Remembrance Week. This congressional resolution is sponsored by Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA).\n\n\u201cFor generations, Gold Star Families have been selfless, strong, and have sacrificed so much for this country,\u201d said Rep. Simpson. \u201cThe families of our fallen heroes have embodied strength and resilience. While we can't fully repay them for their service, they deserve significant recognition. Today, this week, and every day, we stand with America's Gold Star Families. I'm proud to join my colleagues in honoring the families of America's service members who made the ultimate sacrifice to defend our country and the freedoms we hold so dearly.\u201d", 1, "2026-09-23T09:45:16Z", "2026-09-23T09:46:14Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402075", "Rep. Simpson Supports Imposing Additional Sanctions on Russia", "2026-09-18", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson supported the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act. This bill establishes new mandatory sanctions and economic restrictions targeting the Russian Federation and supports President Trump\u2019s efforts to achieve peace in the Russia-Ukraine war. The legislation also extends the Iran Sanctions Act of 1996 through 2031, which is currently set to expire on December 31, 2026.\n\n\u201cEstablishing sanctions and restrictions on the Russian Federation is the only way to protect United States interests and strengthen efforts to advance peace in the Russia-Ukraine war,\u201d said Rep. Simpson. \u201cWe can all agree that this war has gone on for far too long, and we must not allow Russia to claim victory or believe they have won the war. I applaud the Trump Administration for its support of diplomatic efforts, as well as the Senate for advancing this bipartisan legislation. Senator Lindsey Graham was a dear friend, colleague, and true statesman. Achieving peace in the Russia-Ukraine war was one of Lindsey\u2019s top priorities, and he worked diligently towards that goal. I am pleased to see this legislation now head to President Trump\u2019s desk in his honor.\u201d\n\nThe Senate overwhelmingly passed the Russia sanctions bill on August 7, 2026, by a vote of 86\u201311.", 1, "2026-09-19T09:11:33Z", "2026-09-19T09:12:45Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402071", "Rep. Simpson Supports Anti-Fraud Legislation", "2026-09-17", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014This week, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson supported two bills to crack down on fraud in federal programs and protect taxpayer dollars.\n\n\u201cFraud in the United States has reached an unprecedented level,\u201d said Rep. Simpson. \u201cNot only has fraud risen, but most Americans do not trust federal, state, and local governments to prevent fraud and protect taxpayer dollars effectively. What\u2019s been uncovered in California, Minnesota, and several other states is disgraceful. I applaud President Trump, Vice President Vance, and several federal agencies for their efforts to combat and eliminate the problem. Now, it\u2019s up to Congress to work with the DOJ and ensure hardworking Americans are no longer taken advantage of.\u201d\n\nThe legislation passed this week includes:", 1, "2026-09-18T09:27:43Z", "2026-09-18T09:29:09Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402074", "Rep. Simpson Supports Bill to Protect Ratepayers from Data Center Costs", "2026-09-17", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson supported H.R. 9340 \u2013 the Ratepayer Protection Act. This bill ensures that companies building data centers pay for the electricity needed to power them, instead of hardworking American families. This legislation is sponsored by Rep. Gabe Evans (R-CO).\n\n\u201cStates like Idaho are looking at ways to regulate data centers and prevent them from raising energy costs for American families,\u201d said Rep. Simpson. \u201cI've heard from several Idahoans regarding the data center issue, particularly their concerns about rising costs. Addressing these community concerns and establishing proper guardrails is a step in the right direction to ensure state and local control over data centers and protect American communities from increased costs.\u201d", 1, "2026-09-18T09:27:43Z", "2026-09-18T09:29:09Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402068", "Rep. Simpson Commemorates the 25th Anniversary of 9/11", "2026-09-11", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson cosponsored a congressional resolution commemorating the 25th anniversary of the terrorist attacks of September 11th, 2001. The resolution honors the 2,977 innocent lives lost on that solemn day, as well as the first responders, members of the Armed Forces, passengers and crew of Flight 93, and countless others who demonstrated extraordinary courage and sacrifice. The resolution also recognizes the responders and survivors who continue to suffer from 9/11-related illnesses, the organizations that have supported the 9/11 community over the past 25 years, and the importance of teaching future generations the history and lessons of September 11th. New York Representatives Garbarino, Goldman, and Lawler introduced this resolution.\n\n\u201cAmerica changed forever when nearly 3,000 innocent Americans were killed in the terrorist attacks twenty-five years ago,\u201d said Rep. Simpson. \u201cThose lost were fathers, mothers, daughters, sons, friends, colleagues, and more. The tragedy, loss, and fear brought Americans together, and we stood united. For many of us, there was a country before 9/11 and a country after. But as every year goes on, we must ensure that our future generations never forget that solemn day. May they never forget the heroic actions of the first responders and brave civilians who stepped in to help, the families who suffered an unimaginable loss, or the lessons learned to prevent history from repeating itself. Today, we remember and honor those lost and the sacrifices made. May God continue to comfort those in need and bless our great nation.\u201d\n\nSenator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) introduced the companion resolution in the Senate.", 1, "2026-09-12T09:02:30Z", "2026-09-12T09:03:27Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402062", "Rep. Simpson Supports Bill to Protect Domestic Mining", "2026-09-03", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson voted in favor of H.R. 1501, the Protecting Domestic Mining Act, a bill that strengthens America\u2019s mining and mineral processing capabilities by providing regulatory certainty for producers and permitting agencies. The Protecting Domestic Mining Act is sponsored by Rep. Jefferson Shreve (R-IN).\n\n\u201cReducing our dependence on foreign adversaries for critical mineral production should be one of our top priorities,\u201d said Rep. Simpson. \u201cUnder the Biden administration, we depended on sourcing critical minerals from our enemies. I applaud the Trump administration\u2019s efforts to strengthen domestic mining, but it\u2019s well past time for Congress to act and cut bureaucratic red tape. Mining in America is critical for our national security, and we have the resources and workers to mine and produce right here at home.\u201d\n\nThe measure was approved with a vote of 218 to 201.", 1, "2026-09-04T09:19:37Z", "2026-09-04T09:20:58Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402059", "Rep. Simpson Supports Resolution Condemning Socialism", "2026-09-01", "2026", "2026-09", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson voted in favor of H.Res. 1490, a congressional resolution condemning and denouncing socialism in all its forms. This resolution was introduced by Rep. Jeff Crank (R-CO).\n\n\u201cNow more than ever, with newly nominated socialists around the country, common sense is at stake,\u201d said Rep. Simpson. \u201cThe extreme ideas like replacing the President and the Supreme Court, abolishing law enforcement, and extending voting rights to illegal aliens are not about fairness or equality \u2013 they are simply anti-American. I\u2019m pleased to see a resolution condemning these radical ideas pass the House, but it makes it abundantly clear where the Democrats stand.\u201d\n\nThe resolution passed with a vote of 220 to 192.", 1, "2026-09-03T09:29:33Z", "2026-09-03T09:31:32Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2026/08/31/fulcher-signs-on-to-bill-protecting-idahoans-privacy/", "Fulcher Signs On to Bill Protecting Idahoans\u2019 Privacy", "2026-08-31", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher (Idaho-01) released the following statement after co-sponsoring H.R. 9716, the Protecting Rights in Video and Equipment Acquired Discovery (PRIVACY) Act.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m proud to sign on to this legislation to protect the privacy rights of Idahoans from increasingly intrusive surveillance data collection and to prohibit the widespread deployment of such surveillance tools with federal dollars,\u201d said Congressman Fulcher. \u201cIt\u2019s simple: if the federal government wants to access state and local systems\u2019 data on citizens, they need to get a warrant.\u201d\n\nSpecifically, the legislation safeguards the privacy of Americans by requiring federal law enforcement agencies to obtain a warrant from a Federal judge before accessing, receiving, querying, or otherwise obtaining surveillance data collected by state and local systems, such as:\n\nAutomated license plate readers (ALPRs);\n\nCameras that capture images of a vehicle\u2019s occupants;\n\nLong-range microphones;\n\nElectronic fingerprint detection technology;\n\nAny substantially similar technology determined appropriate by the Attorney General.\n\nBill Background\n\nThe PRIVACY Act:\n\nCreates a list of intrusive technologies and requires federal law enforcement to obtain a warrant before accessing or querying data from those systems.\n\nLimits the retention of data obtained under a warrant to 30 days, unless the data constitutes evidence in a prosecution or a court grants a limited extension.\n\nProhibits the use of federal funds to purchase or install such intrusive technologies, with limited exceptions.\n\nTo read the bill text, click here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-09-01T09:48:49Z", "2026-09-01T09:49:51Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402058", "Rep. Simpson Advances Funding for Aberdeen Research and Extension Center", "2026-08-27", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson highlighted the inclusion of $5,000,000 in funding for the USDA-ARS University of Idaho Aberdeen Research and Extension Center Potato Breeding Facilities Project in Aberdeen, Idaho, at his request through Community Project Funding (CPF) in the House-passed Fiscal Year 2027 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration Appropriations Bill.\n\n\u201cPotatoes are one of Idaho\u2019s most important crops, and our state leads the nation in production,\u201d said Rep. Simpson. \u201cThe University of Idaho has conducted phenomenal research on various crops and provided valuable information to producers about these key agricultural products. As the University continues to expand its research to meet industry needs, it is crucial that funding keeps pace with the research efforts. I am proud to support this project, and as we continue to support the potato industry, we should strive for the goal that ten out of ten Americans associate potatoes with Idaho, rather than just nine out of ten!\u201d\n\n\u201cWe are thankful for Congressman Simpson\u2019s continued support and advocacy for Idaho agriculture,\u201d said Leslie D. Edgar, J.R. Simplot Endowed Dean of the University of Idaho College of Agricultural and Life Sciences. \u201cFunds secured by Congressman Simpson will allow us to make critical updates to potato storage and greenhouse facilities at our Aberdeen Research and Extension Center, advancing the essential research we conduct in partnership with USDA-ARS. These updates will allow us to better support Idaho\u2019s $8.5 billion potato industry and ensure the U.S. has resilient potato varieties for the future.\u201d\n\n\u201cCongressman Simpson\u2019s support for the Aberdeen Research and Extension Center represents a meaningful investment in the future of Idaho agriculture. Advances in potato breeding and research are vital to improving productivity, sustainability, and resilience for our growers, and this funding helps ensure they remain competitive in a rapidly changing environment,\u201d said Matt Dorsey, Idaho Farm Bureau Federation President.\n\n\u201cOn behalf of Idaho's potato industry, I extend my heartfelt thanks to Congressman Simpson and the House Appropriations Committee for advancing the Fiscal Year 2027 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration Appropriations Bill that includes critical funding for the Aberdeen Research and Extension Center. This investment ensures Idaho will continue to lead the nation\u2014and the world\u2014in cutting-edge potato research, supporting our growers, strengthening our Nation\u2019s food security, and driving innovation for years to come,\u201d said Jamey Higham, Idaho Potato Commission President.\n\nThis funding will be used to update federally owned storage and greenhouse facilities at the Aberdeen Research and Extension Center to ensure it can continue conducting the necessary research needed by the potato industry. The Aberdeen Research and Extension Center is home to several potato research projects investigating potato-related diseases and disease management techniques; potato pests; potato cropping systems and weed biology, control, and herbicide resistance; and potato variety development. The center plays a crucial role in the development of potato varietals that are higher-yielding, more disease-resistant, and have better end-use qualities than past varieties.\n\nAs Idaho\u2019s only appropriator, Rep. Simpson has a unique opportunity to fight for Idaho\u2019s priorities and ensure Idahoans\u2019 hard-earned tax dollars return to Idaho.", 1, "2026-08-28T17:11:49Z", "2026-08-28T17:13:14Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402046", "Idaho Has Led the Nuclear Renaissance Before. We Should Lead It Again", "2026-08-07", "2026", "2026-08", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "I\u2019ve spent the last few years reading and laughing at the so-called hit pieces Marc Johnson writes about Idaho elected officials, including myself.\n\nThe reason I find them comical is that they are rarely grounded in the facts. But my red line was watching Marc spread false and misleading information about Idaho National Laboratory being considered as a potential host for a Nuclear Lifecycle Innovation Campus.\n\nHis piece does Idahoans a disservice by collapsing a serious national research initiative into a punchline about a \"cash for trash scheme.\" Idaho's history with nuclear energy, and its stake in this decision, deserves a more careful look.\n\nStart with what the Idaho National Laboratory actually is. For more than 70 years, INL has been the country's lead laboratory for nuclear energy research, not a waste dump with a friendly name. It is where the Navy's nuclear propulsion program was born, where the first usable electricity from a nuclear reactor was generated in 1951, and where today's advanced reactor designs, fuel fabrication techniques, and reprocessing science are being developed and tested.\n\nThe Nuclear Lifecycle Innovation Campus proposal is best understood as an extension of work INL is already positioned, and in many cases already funded, to do. It is not a new invention designed to trick Idaho into becoming a dumping ground.\n\nThat doesn't mean the waste question is illegitimate. It isn't, and Idahoans are right to ask hard questions about it. Research, fuel fabrication, and reprocessing are fundamentally different from permanent waste disposal. The proposal is about advancing technologies that can reduce and recycle used nuclear fuel, not simply moving waste from one state to another. Those are important distinctions Marc ignores.\n\nThe same is true of the 1995 Batt Agreement. That agreement protected Idaho by establishing enforceable commitments with the federal government. The lesson isn't that Idaho should never sign whatever the Department of Energy puts in front of it without asking tough questions first. It's that Idaho should negotiate from a position of strength, with clear terms, firm deadlines, and accountability.\n\nIdaho didn't become the nation's nuclear leader by being afraid of hard problems. It became the leader by being the state willing to do the difficult, careful work that others wouldn't. That's still the right instinct now.\n\nThe work taking place at INL strengthens our national security, supports thousands of high-paying Idaho jobs, and positions the United States to compete with Russia and China in advanced nuclear technology. That's something Idahoans are proud of.\n\nWhat makes Marc Johnson's latest attack so predictable is that he has never meaningfully contributed to the scientific, technical, or policy discussions surrounding spent nuclear fuel. Instead, he has spent years criticizing the elected officials responsible for protecting Idaho's interests.\n\nMore remarkable is that Marc hasn't lived in Idaho for decades. He chose to leave the state, yet continues attempting to lecture Idahoans about decisions being made by the leaders they elected.\n\nThat raises a simple question: when was the last time Marc had to live with the consequences of Idaho policy? The last time Mark voted in an Idaho election was over a decade ago.\n\nIdahoans don't need lectures from someone who no longer lives here or answers to the people of this state.\n\nOver the last several decades, my focus has remained the same: putting Idaho first. That means protecting Idaho's interests in negotiations over spent nuclear fuel, supporting Idaho National Laboratory, strengthening our communities, fighting for Idaho agriculture and water, and ensuring public lands remain in public hands.\n\nIdaho is more than capable of solving Idaho\u2019s challenges. We don\u2019t need lectures from someone who chose to leave decades ago. We especially don\u2019t need someone offering advice when his state\u2019s failed policies are driving Oregonians out of the state.\n\nMaybe the next time Marc Johnson offers to write commentary about Idaho policy, he should reconsider writing about Oregon\u2019s high homelessness rate, property crime, or maybe even taxes that burden Oregonians and everything else Oregonians can thank their elected officials for.", 1, "2026-08-08T05:41:38Z", "2026-08-08T05:43:24Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402040", "Rep. Simpson Supports Bill to Crack Down on Insider Trading in Congress", "2026-07-24", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson voted in favor of H.R. 7008, the Stop Insider Trading Act, a bill that ensures lawmakers don\u2019t use their positions to profit off insider information. This legislation would ban members of Congress, their spouses, and their dependent children from purchasing individual securities issued by publicly traded companies. The Stop Insider Trading Act is sponsored by Rep. Bryan Steil (R-WI).\n\n\u201cThe American people send lawmakers to Washington, D.C. to deliver on policy promises, not to enrich themselves by profiting off insider information. Republican, Democrat, or Independent, there must be consequences for those who are only working for their financial benefit. The passage of the Stop Insider Trading Act is a critical step in ensuring accountability and restoring public trust in elected officials,\u201d said Rep. Simpson.\n\nThe measure was approved with a vote of 232 to 198.", 1, "2026-07-25T07:13:44Z", "2026-07-25T07:15:09Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402038", "Rep. Simpson Votes to Strengthen America's Defense in NDAA", "2026-07-23", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson voted in favor of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2027. The FY27 NDAA authorizes full funding for America\u2019s national defense, improves servicemember quality of life, enhances military readiness, and supports the Trump Administration\u2019s Peace through Strength agenda.\n\n\u201cOur nation is at a critical time where there is a pressing demand to rebuild our military, support our troops, and deter our adversaries,\u201d said Rep. Simpson. \u201cI\u2019m pleased to see that the Fiscal Year 2027 National Defense Authorization Act addresses these needs and continues to build on the peace through strength agenda. Improving our servicemembers\u2019 quality of life, strengthening our national defense, and supporting the brave men and women who serve are some of my top priorities in Congress. I was proud to support this must-pass legislation.\u201d\n\nHighlights of the bill include:\n\nAuthorizes $1.15 trillion in national defense discretionary spending to revitalize our defense industrial base, strengthen American deterrence, and support our service members.\n\nProvides a 5% to 7% pay raise for all service members while improving military housing, education, childcare access, and quality of life.\n\nAdvancing over 65 of President Trump\u2019s Executive Orders and Legislative Proposals by fully authorizing his top defense priorities.\n\nFully funds the deployment of National Guard and active-duty troops in support of Border Patrol activities at the southwest border.\n\nCounters threats to our national security from state sponsors of terror, foreign terrorist organizations, and other adversaries.\n\nSaves taxpayers over $30 billion.\n\nThe FY27 NDAA was approved with a vote of 216 to 212.", 1, "2026-07-24T07:30:11Z", "2026-07-24T07:31:13Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402037", "Rep. Simpson Supports Budget Resolution to Advance Key Parts of President Trump\u2019s Agenda", "2026-07-22", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014 Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson issued the following statement regarding his vote of support for the House of Representatives\u2019 Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Resolution.\n\n\u201cAmericans overwhelmingly support securing our elections, strengthening our nation\u2019s defense, and supporting our farmers,\u201d said Rep. Simpson. \u201cThe next step toward advancing these popular policies is through a filibuster-proof reconciliation bill, which lays out a path forward for election integrity, supporting our troops, and securing America\u2019s food supply. House Republicans are eager to get to work, and I\u2019m encouraged to see this budget resolution pass the House.\u201d", 1, "2026-07-24T07:30:11Z", "2026-07-24T07:31:13Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402034", "Rep. Simpson Applauds Reauthorization of Action for Dental Health Act", "2026-07-20", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson applauded the passage of H.R. 2001 \u2013 the reauthorization of the Action for Dental Health Act. Originally passed and signed into law in 2018, this bipartisan bill will continue support to organizations that provide oral health care to underserved populations, especially seniors and children living in rural communities, through Fiscal Year 2030. The Action for Dental Health Act is co-authored by Rep. Simpson and Rep. Robin Kelly (D-IL).\n\n\u201cAs a former dentist in Blackfoot, Idaho, I have seen firsthand the value of good oral health and the consequences of neglect,\u201d said Rep. Simpson, co-author of this bill. \u201cSince its implementation in 2018, the Action for Dental Health Act has improved dental care in communities across the country. Reauthorizing this legislation is critical to address the dental workforce needs and improve access to care for patients. As co-chair of the Congressional Oral Health Caucus, I am proud to partner with Congresswoman Kelly once again to see the House of Representatives pass this bipartisan bill, and I look forward to sending it to President Trump's desk.\u201d\n\n\u201cOral health care is a critical part of our overall health, and preventative dental care can reduce costs for families and improve overall well-being,\" Rep. Kelly said. \"By reauthorizing this bipartisan program that connects people with the care they need, this legislation will help prevent serious oral health problems before they start. I'm proud to work alongside Congressman Simpson, a former dentist, to advance this reauthorization and to my House colleagues for supporting this important bill.\u201d", 1, "2026-07-21T07:32:02Z", "2026-07-21T07:33:33Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2026/07/14/fulcher-issues-federal-land-management-survey-encourages-idahoans-to-participate/", "Fulcher Issues Federal Land Management Survey, Encourages Idahoans to Participate", "2026-07-14", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher (Idaho-01) released a survey seeking input from Idahoans regarding the management and use of federal lands within the state of Idaho and the role of local communities in responsible stewardship.\n\n\u201cFeedback from this survey is intended to ensure Idahoans have a voice and seat at the table as policy in Washington, D.C., on federal lands is evaluated,\u201d said Congressman Fulcher.\n\n\u201cApproximately 62 percent of the land within Idaho\u2019s borders is owned and managed by the federal government, and from 2020 to 2025, nearly 2.7 million of those acres experienced some sort of closure to the public. This extensive federal footprint restricts our access, poses challenges to economic stability, and has exacerbated wildfire devastation due to inadequate stewardship,\u201d Fulcher added. \u201cI am actively working on identifying policy solutions that ensure Idahoans have more say in our land management practices. Together, we can ensure Idaho\u2019s public lands remain accessible, safe, and sustainably managed for generations to come.\u201d\n\nThe survey is available on Congressman Fulcher\u2019s website at https://fulcher.house.gov/ProtectOurLands/.\n\nPersonally identifiable information will remain confidential.\n\nEarlier this Congress, Congressman Fulcher issued a letter to Idaho\u2019s Constitutional Officers, State Legislators, and County Commissioners on the importance of encouraging local resource management, convening discussions on effective land-management practices moving forward, and safeguarding Idaho\u2019s public lands for future generations of Idahoans.\n\n###", 1, "2026-07-15T07:12:08Z", "2026-07-15T07:13:45Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402030", "Rep. Simpson Supports Making Daylight Savings Time Permanent", "2026-07-14", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014 Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson voted in favor of H.R. 139, the Sunshine Protection Act, a bipartisan bill that would make Daylight Savings Time permanent year-round and end the twice-annual clock change. This legislation is sponsored by Rep. Vern Buchanan (R-FL).\n\n\u201cEvery Idahoan I\u2019ve spoken to dreads the seasonal time change,\u201d said Rep. Simpson. \u201cOver the years, it has become increasingly clear that making this change will benefit farmers, outdoor recreationists, employers, and even public safety. The vast majority of Americans support locking the clock, and the Sunshine Protection Act is a common-sense reform.\u201d\n\nThis legislation allows states to opt out of permanent daylight saving time in favor of permanent standard time if opt-out legislation is passed through their respective state legislatures. States can do so right up until the bill\u2019s enactment.\n\nThe measure was approved with a vote of 308-117.", 1, "2026-07-15T07:12:08Z", "2026-07-15T07:13:45Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402027", "Rep. Simpson Cosponsors Securing Agriculture's Workforce Act", "2026-07-02", "2026", "2026-07", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson cosponsored H.R. 9535, the Securing Agriculture\u2019s Workforce Act, a bipartisan bill aimed at making key improvements to the accessibility and cost of agricultural labor through the H-2A visa program. This legislation is sponsored by the House Committee on Agriculture Chairman Glenn Thompson.\n\n\u201cAsk any farmer or rancher, especially in the dairy industry, and they will tell you about the labor crisis they face. After years of working to build consensus to address this critical issue, I'm confident that the Securing Agriculture's Workforce Act is the legislative fix we need. President Trump has demonstrated the courage to act on this issue and has a proven record of protecting America's farmers while removing violent criminal illegal aliens who have no place in our country. I'm grateful to Chairman Thompson for his leadership and look forward to finally getting this solution across the finish line to bring lasting reform and certainty for our agricultural producers,\u201d said Rep. Simpson, an original cosponsor.\n\n\u201cThe Idaho Dairymen\u2019s Association thanks Congressman Mike Simpson for being an original cosponsor of the \u2018Securing Agriculture\u2019s Workforce Act.\u2019 We are deeply grateful that the Congressman is once again showing that he is willing to lead on securing a workforce for Idaho\u2019s dairy farms. Idaho\u2019s farm families are the backbone of our state and having access to a secure, stable agricultural workforce is key to the economic success of those farms and our rural communities,\u201d said Rick Naerebout, CEO of the Idaho Dairymen\u2019s Association.\n\n\u201cAmerica's farmers and ranchers need a reliable, legal workforce to continue feeding our nation. The Securing Agriculture's Workforce Act is a practical step toward strengthening our agricultural workforce and ensuring the long-term viability of U.S. agriculture,\u201d said Matt Dorsey, President of the Idaho Farm Bureau Federation.\n\n\u201cAmerica cannot have food security without a secure agricultural workforce. The Snake River Sugarbeet Growers Association strongly supports the Securing Agriculture's Workforce Act and thanks Congressman Mike Simpson for his unwavering leadership on this issue. For years, Congressman Simpson has been a relentless champion for agriculture, fighting to ensure farmers have the workforce they need to continue producing food here at home. This legislation is a critical step toward strengthening our nation's food security, supporting family farms, and ensuring American agriculture remains competitive for generations to come,\u201d said Samantha Parrott, Executive Director of the Snake River Sugarbeet Growers Association.\n\n\u201cSimplot has operations that touch every aspect of agriculture including seed production, farming and ranching, plant sciences, phosphate mining and fertilizer manufacturing, food processing, commercial product development and distribution. As a true mine-to-plate company we have a unique view of the food and agriculture supply chain that allows us to see what works and what impedes progress. Agricultural labor has presented significant challenges for decades and we are pleased to see bipartisan solutions from the U.S. House of Representatives to address issues long due for updating and modernization. We commend Chairman G.T. Thompson and Congressman Mike Simpson for their strong leadership and hope for the speedy passage of the Securing Agriculture\u2019s Workforce Act,\u201d said Garrett Lofto, President and CEO, the Simplot Company.\n\n\u201cThe Securing Agriculture\u2019s Workforce Act provides stability and certainty for Idaho onion growers to protect the production of the crop and manage rising costs associated with the current labor program. By streamlining the H-2A program, this common-sense legislation ensures a reliable workforce and keeps our local and rural farms operational,\u201d said Jarom Jemmett, President of the Idaho Onion Growers\u2019 Association.\n\nThis bipartisan legislation is supported by the American Farm Bureau Federation, the Western Growers Association, the National Milk Producers Federation, and more than 400 other agricultural groups across the entire industry, including 18 Idaho organizations.\n\nCongressman Simpson recently joined Chairman Thompson, other cosponsors, producers, and stakeholder groups at a press conference to discuss the Securing Agriculture\u2019s Workforce Act. You can view the full press conference here.", 1, "2026-07-03T08:00:00Z", "2026-07-03T08:01:30Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2026/06/30/fulcher-celebrates-supreme-courts-decision-in-little-v-hecox/", "Fulcher Celebrates Supreme Court\u2019s Decision in\u00a0Little v. Hecox", "2026-06-30", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher (Idaho-01) issued the following statement on the U.S. Supreme Court\u2019s decision in Little v. Hecox.\n\n\u201cIn Idaho, women\u2019s and girls\u2019 sports will remain reserved for women and girls. Today, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of Idaho and West Virginia\u2019s laws protecting the integrity of female athletics. This historic decision affirms common sense values and reinforces a simple truth: female athletes deserve every opportunity to compete on a level playing field, succeed, and have their achievements recognized and protected,\u201d said U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher (Idaho-01).\n\n###", 1, "2026-07-01T06:34:07Z", "2026-07-01T06:35:35Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402022", "Rep. Simpson Applauds Supreme Court's Women's Sports Decision", "2026-06-30", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson released the following statement in response to the United States Supreme Court's formal decision in Little v. Hecox and West Virginia v. B.P.J.\n\n\u201cToday is a historic day for female athletes in America,\u201d said Rep. Simpson. \u201cThe Supreme Court\u2019s decision in State of Little v. Hecox and West Virginia v. B.P.J. has confirmed what we have known all along: men have no place in women\u2019s sports. Idahoans owe a debt of gratitude to Idaho Attorney General Ra\u00fal Labrador and Idaho State Representative Barb Ehardt for leading the charge to protect women\u2019s sports and fight for common sense. More than anything, today\u2019s ruling is an incredible step toward preserving and protecting Title IX for future generations.\u201d", 1, "2026-07-01T06:34:07Z", "2026-07-01T06:35:35Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2026/06/26/fulcher-invites-public-to-july-telephone-town-hall-for-congressional-update-and-qa/", "Fulcher Invites Public to July Telephone Town Hall for Congressional Update and Q&A", "2026-06-26", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher (Idaho-01) announced his next telephone town hall will take place on July 22, 2026, at 6 p.m. MT, 5 p.m. PT.\n\nThe event serves as an opportunity for residents of Idaho\u2019s First Congressional District to ask questions, share input, and receive a congressional update from Congressman Fulcher. Constituents can participate by dialing 833-998-1718 on a telephone at the time of the event.\n\nCongressman Fulcher hosted telephone town hall events in March and June, reaching thousands of Idahoans across the First Congressional District.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-27T06:16:17Z", "2026-06-27T06:17:30Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402018", "Common Sense, Chainsaws, and Stewardship in the Wilderness", "2026-06-25", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "Whether it\u2019s public lands or designated wilderness areas, the people of Idaho value recreation and have proven to be responsible stewards for generations.\n\nAs a lifelong Idahoan and Chairman of the House Interior and Environment Appropriations Subcommittee, I have worked long and hard to protect Idahoans\u2019 way of life by preserving access to Idaho\u2019s public lands and ensuring wilderness status provides the strongest possible protections for these lands.\n\nPublic lands and wilderness areas serve as places for all Americans to enjoy activities such as hiking, fishing, hunting, and camping. These recreational hobbies transcend political affiliations.\n\nUnfortunately, that hasn\u2019t been the case, given the predictable outrage from groups like the left-wing Wilderness Watch following the recent United States Forest Service decision to authorize limited, temporary use of gas-powered chainsaws by licensed outfitters in portions of the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness.\n\nThey condemn \"secret negotiations,\" violations of the Wilderness Act, and the horrors of commercial interests wielding tools in our \"pristine\" backcountry.\n\nThese groups have missed the point entirely. The Forest Service decided to restore public access in the face of extraordinary trail devastation, fully consistent with the law's allowance for the \"minimum tool\" necessary to administer wilderness areas.\n\nThose who have visited understand that the Frank Church-River of No Return is vast, covering over 2.3 million acres, and faces real challenges.\n\nIn fact, one of the biggest concerns I hear from Idahoans is how we can better maintain trails.\n\nIdaho is no stranger to wildfire, insect infestations, and even wind blowdown, leaving some trails buried under hundreds of downed trees per mile.\n\nThe Idaho Outfitters and Guides Association highlighted an estimated 500-700 trees per mile on key routes, rendering them impassable for many users.\n\nCrosscut saws are slow, labor-intensive, and often inadequate for the scale of the problem in rugged terrain. Volunteers and agency crews have used them for years, but when blowdown reaches \"extraordinary levels,\" efficiency matters for safety and access.\n\nThe Wilderness Act of 1964 is not an absolute ban on all tools. Section 4(c) explicitly allows motorized equipment when it is the \"minimum requirement\" for administering the area to preserve its wilderness character, including maintaining recreational trails.\n\nThe Forest Service conducted a Minimum Requirements Analysis, approved use only on 61 specific high-priority trails (about 542 miles, half the area in one forest), limited it to January through August for three years, and restricted it to authorized outfitters.\n\nUnlike what these left-wing groups are saying, this is not a \"chainsaw massacre.\u201d It's a necessary response to keep trails open, all within the law requirements.\n\nThere are criticisms of the lack of public comment and NEPA review. Still, administrative decisions for trail maintenance under established exceptions don't always trigger full environmental impact statements, especially for temporary actions.\n\nAnd the claims of \"backroom deals with commercial interests\" ignore that outfitters and guides are the backbone of responsible public access to these areas.\n\nThey bring a broad range of groups, such as hunters, rafters, hikers, and anglers, who support local economies and have a vested interest in better management. Blocking efficient trail clearing doesn't protect wilderness. Instead, it locks it away while discouraging stewardship.\n\nVolunteer groups like the Selway Bitterroot Frank Church Foundation do great work with crosscuts, but they can't scale to address massive blowdown alone. Multiple tools, such as gas-powered chainsaws, are needed.\n\nTemporary chainsaw use, followed by natural decay and regrowth, has a negligible long-term impact compared to closed trails or unsafe conditions that drive recreationists elsewhere.\n\nIdahoans know and love our public lands, and deserve managed public lands that serve both conservation and recreation.\n\nThe Forest Service got this one right, and future generations will benefit because our beloved public lands and wilderness areas are preserved.", 1, "2026-06-26T06:29:35Z", "2026-06-26T06:31:46Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402017", "Rep. Simpson Commemorates Fourth Anniversary of Dobbs Decision", "2026-06-24", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson cosponsored a congressional resolution commemorating the anniversary of Dobbs v. Jackson Women\u2019s Health Organization, which reversed the 1973 Roe v. Wade decision, and celebrating the lives that will be saved as a result of Dobbs. This resolution was introduced by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) and Senator Steve Daines (R-MT).\n\n\u201cFour years ago, the United States Supreme Court made the correct decision and overturned Roe v. Wade,\u201d said Rep. Simpson. \u201cI have long said that there is no constitutional right to an abortion, and thanks to the historic Dobbs decision, power was returned to the people, and the right to protect unborn life was restored. I\u2019m proud to be a part of the pro-life movement and will continue to stand up for the unborn unapologetically.\u201d", 1, "2026-06-25T06:30:03Z", "2026-06-25T06:31:21Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402014", "Rep. Simpson Advances Funding for Franklin County Medical Center\u2019s Long-Term Care Remodel", "2026-06-17", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson highlighted the inclusion of $750,000 in funding for the Franklin County Medical Center Long-Term Care Remodel Project in Preston, Idaho, at his request through Community Project Funding (CPF) in the Fiscal Year 2027 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill.\n\n\u201cMany of Idaho\u2019s seniors have helped build, serve, and shape our communities. The least we can do to repay them is ensure they have access to care without having to leave their hometown or families. The Franklin County Medical Center needs to remodel and improve its long-term care facility to meet growing demands. As the only advanced nursing facility in Franklin County, I\u2019m proud to support this project and advocate for funding that helps our beloved seniors,\u201d said Rep. Simpson.\n\n\u201cFranklin County Medical Center is deeply grateful to Representative Mike Simpson for securing $750,000 in preliminary Community Project Funding to modernize our Long-Term Care facility. The only skilled nursing facility in Franklin County, our current building was constructed over 50 years ago and no longer meets modern clinical standards or the basic expectations of Idaho families. Notably, the current design requires a shared bathroom and a divided room, making privacy and a sense of independence impossible. This initial federal investment is a crucial turning point that will directly impact the health, safety, and dignity of our community\u2019s seniors and most vulnerable citizens for generations to come,\u201d said Franklin County Medical Center CEO Darin Dransfield.\n\nThis funding will allow Franklin County Medical Center to remodel its long-term care wings into larger, ADA-compliant, private patient suites. Built in 1970, the current footprint is no longer suitable for modern care.\n\nAs Idaho\u2019s only appropriator, Rep. Simpson has a unique opportunity to fight for Idaho\u2019s priorities and ensure Idahoans\u2019 hard-earned tax dollars return to Idaho.\n\nThe Franklin County Medical Center Long-Term Care Remodel Project is a part of the Fiscal Year 2027 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. This measure has been approved by the House Appropriations Committee.", 1, "2026-06-18T06:41:00Z", "2026-06-18T06:43:25Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2026/06/15/fulcher-introduces-bill-expanding-free-access-to-national-parks-for-foster-families/", "Fulcher Introduces Bill Expanding Free Access to National Parks for Foster Families", "2026-06-15", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher (Idaho-01) released the following statement after introducing the Promoting Access to Recreation for Kids in Foster Settings (PARKS) Act, H.R. 9145.\n\nThe legislation would add licensed foster care families to the list of those who can access America the Beautiful passes free of charge.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m delighted to introduce the PARKS Act. America is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in the world, many of which are part of the National Parks System. Lifting the fee for foster care children to access these natural wonders\u2014particularly as we celebrate our nation\u2019s 250th birthday this year\u2014would provide them with immense benefits, such as enhanced educational resources and improved school readiness,\u201d said Congressman Fulcher.\n\nThe PARKS Act seeks to promote healthy and active lifestyles, family outdoor activities, and improved mental health. Additionally, because many National Parks and other federal lands incorporate educational signage, foster children have expanded opportunities to learn more about the natural world.\n\nBill Background\n\nIn 2024, the latest year for which there is data, there were over 320,000 children in foster care. These are children who have experienced difficult family circumstances and may be struggling. A preponderance of evidence has shown that access to the outdoors can benefit children\u2019s physical and mental health, concentration, and school readiness.\n\nThe PARKS Act would add licensed foster care families to the list of those who can access America the Beautiful passes free of charge, removing the financial barrier for foster children to access federal lands.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-16T06:53:21Z", "2026-06-16T06:55:02Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402011", "Rep. Simpson Advances Funding for New CT Scanner for Minidoka Memorial Hospital", "2026-06-12", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson highlighted the inclusion of $495,000 in funding for the Minidoka Memorial Hospital CT Machine Purchase Project in Rupert, Idaho, at his request through Community Project Funding (CPF) in the Fiscal Year 2027 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill.\n\n\u201cThe Minidoka Memorial Hospital is the only hospital in Minidoka County, serving several rural areas across southern Idaho,\u201d said Rep. Simpson. \u201cReplacing the hospital\u2019s aging CT scanner is necessary for evaluations and patient care, and it could potentially make a difference between life and death in emergencies. As Idaho\u2019s only appropriator, I will always fight for meaningful projects that support our state.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe are grateful for Congressman Simpson's support in advocating for federal funding for replacing the Minidoka Memorial Hospital's CT scanner. This project is necessary for Minidoka County and our neighboring rural communities. We appreciate Congressman Simpson's staff reviewing our community funding project request and supporting rural healthcare in Idaho,\u201d said Minidoka Memorial Hospital Interim Chief Executive Officer Emmett Schuster.\n\nThis funding will be used to replace the facility\u2019s aging Computed Tomography (CT) system, a crucial component of the diagnostic infrastructure. The facility\u2019s current CT system has been in service for almost a decade, and this funding will significantly enhance their diagnostic capabilities, improve patient outcomes, and ensure long-term sustainability of the hospital.\n\nAs Idaho\u2019s only appropriator, Rep. Simpson has a unique opportunity to fight for Idaho\u2019s priorities and ensure Idahoans\u2019 hard-earned tax dollars return to Idaho.\n\nThe Minidoka Memorial Hospital CT Machine Purchase Project is a part of the Fiscal Year 2027 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. This measure has been approved by the House Appropriations Committee.", 1, "2026-06-13T06:32:19Z", "2026-06-13T06:34:27Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402012", "Rep. Simpson Fights for TRIO in Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Bill", "2026-06-12", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014This week, the House Committee on Appropriations voted to advance the Fiscal Year 2027 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson supported this advancement and fought for critical Federal TRIO Programs (TRIO) wins in the measure.\n\n\u201cIdaho\u2019s TRIO programs have a longstanding record of supporting first-generation college students across the state every year,\u201d said Rep. Simpson. \u201cI have been a longtime supporter of TRIO and have seen firsthand how these programs help Idaho students pursue their dreams. I was proud to fight for language that protects TRIO\u2019s core mission and ensure this program receives the necessary funding to continue its important work.\u201d\n\n\u201cFor more than 60 years, TRIO programs have helped millions of Americans prepare for, enroll in, and complete higher education. The action taken today by the House Appropriations Committee reinforces the congressional commitment to ensuring that the doors of educational opportunity remain open for our nation's low-income, first-generation students,\u201d said Council for Opportunity in Education President Kimberly Jones.\n\n\u201cWe, the TRIO professional community, are grateful for Representative Simpson fighting for TRIO. Right now, more than 8,800 low-income Idahoans who are the first in their families to attend college are gaining the skills they need to enter the workforce, build careers, and make Idaho one of the best states to live and work in. That is what's possible when we invest in people \u2014 and that is exactly what's at stake if we stop,\u201d said NAEOP Past-President Dr. Megan Simila.\n\n\u201cTRIO is a vehicle for advancement to any individual seeking higher education. I have worked with adults from all backgrounds, and each has a common desire: to gain more education and training and to improve their lives. We work with individuals to discover programs of study, apply for funding, navigate processes, and motivate them to continue forward through their educational journey. Their stories build on the idea that we can all learn and grow at any stage of our lives,\u201d said Idaho State University TRIO Advisor Emily Wunderlich.\n\nHighlights of TRIO Wins include:\n\n\u00b7 Provides $1,197,000,000 for the Federal TRIO programs, a $6 million increase above the enacted level.\n\n\u00b7 Protects TRIO's core mission by requiring the Department of Education to run the programs according to prior practice.\n\n\u00b7 Includes language that highlights the longstanding, bipartisan Congressional support for TRIO.\n\n\u00b7 Includes language that highlights support for smaller programs, especially those operating in rural areas.\n\nThis funding package will now go to the full floor of the House of Representatives for further consideration.", 1, "2026-06-13T06:32:19Z", "2026-06-13T06:34:27Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402007", "Rep. Simpson Advances Funding for Steele Memorial Rehabilitation Facility", "2026-06-11", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson highlighted the inclusion of $2,000,000 in funding for the Steele Memorial Rehabilitation Facility Modernization for Rural Access and Safety Project in Salmon, Idaho, at his request through Community Project Funding (CPF) in the Fiscal Year 2027 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill.\n\n\u201cAs Idaho continues to grow, it is essential that medical centers expand and modernize throughout the state, particularly in rural regions,\u201d said Rep. Simpson. \u201cInvesting in Steele Memorial Medical Center\u2019s proposed facility will enhance patient care and keep rehabilitation services local. This project is critical for Salmon and the surrounding communities, and I am proud to support it.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis project is about far more than expanding rehabilitation services,\u201d said Preston Becker, Chief Executive Officer of Steele Memorial Medical Center. \u201cOur rehabilitation team is providing outstanding care, but they are doing so in a space that has been outgrown. Today, some patients receive therapy in hallways or in shared areas with limited privacy. This project would be transformational for our hospital and our community. It would create a more modern, private, and functional healing environment for patients, improve safety and patient flow, and help us better use space across the hospital to support other departments that have also outgrown their current footprint. At a time when rural hospitals are working to meet growing healthcare needs with limited space and significant financial pressure, investments like this are difficult to accomplish alone. We are deeply grateful to Congressman Simpson for recognizing the importance of this investment in rural healthcare and in the future of our community.\u201d\n\nThis funding will address a core rural healthcare infrastructure needed in Lemhi County\u2019s geographically isolated frontier region by ensuring timely, medically necessary rehabilitation services are available in a safe, private, and ADA-accessible setting.\n\nAs Idaho\u2019s only appropriator, Rep. Simpson has a unique opportunity to fight for Idaho\u2019s priorities and ensure Idahoans\u2019 hard-earned tax dollars return to Idaho.", 1, "2026-06-12T06:37:16Z", "2026-06-12T06:39:00Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402008", "Rep. Simpson Supports Bills to Protect Taxpayer Dollars", "2026-06-11", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014This week, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson voted in favor of several bills to protect taxpayer dollars and eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse within the federal government.\n\n\u201cUncovering and cracking down on the billions of dollars in waste, fraud, and abuse within the federal government is one of Idahoans\u2019 top priorities,\u201d said Rep. Simpson. \u201cAmerica faces an existential threat with nearly $40 trillion in debt. Passing critical legislation to eliminate waste and corruption is a step in the right direction to protect taxpayer dollars.\u201d\n\nThe legislation passed this week includes:", 1, "2026-06-12T06:37:16Z", "2026-06-12T06:39:00Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402006", "Rep. Simpson Advances Funding for Madison Memorial Hospital Radiology Expansion", "2026-06-10", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson highlighted the inclusion of $750,000 in funding for the Madison Memorial Hospital Radiology Expansion Project in Rexburg, Idaho, at his request through Community Project Funding (CPF) in the Fiscal Year 2027 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill.\n\n\u201cThroughout my time in Congress, I have remained committed to supporting rural healthcare in Idaho,\u201d said Rep. Simpson. \u201cAs the primary healthcare provider for Madison County and the Upper Valley Region, it is essential to invest in and upgrade the equipment at Madison Memorial Hospital to help expand its radiology department. This investment is critical for patients in our communities, and I\u2019m proud to advocate for this federal funding.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe are grateful to Congressman Simpson for his support of Madisonhealth and the patients we serve throughout eastern Idaho. The $750,000 federal investment in our Radiology Expansion Project is a significant step toward expanding access to advanced diagnostic imaging and maternal-fetal medicine services for our growing rural communities. These funds will help strengthen emergency and surgical care, improve access to specialized services for high-risk obstetric patients, and ensure more patients can receive timely, high-quality healthcare close to home. We appreciate Congressman Simpson's continued commitment to improving healthcare access and health outcomes across Idaho,\u201d said Dr. Rachel Gonzales, Madisonhealth Chief Executive Officer.\n\nThis funding will allow Madison Memorial to expand its diagnostic imaging and maternal-fetal medicine capabilities in order to better serve the growing population of Madison County and surrounding rural communities. The funding would allow the hospital to purchase critical diagnostic imaging equipment, including a CT Scanner, a C-Arm imaging system, and two advanced ultrasound systems, and the construction necessary to support these services.\n\nAs Idaho\u2019s only appropriator, Rep. Simpson has a unique opportunity to fight for Idaho\u2019s priorities and ensure Idahoans\u2019 hard-earned tax dollars return to Idaho.\n\nThe Madison Memorial Hospital Radiology Expansion Project is a part of the Fiscal Year 2027 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. This measure has been approved by the House Appropriations Committee.", 1, "2026-06-11T06:38:38Z", "2026-06-11T06:41:07Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402004", "Rep. Simpson Advances Funding for Milner Dam Rehabilitation", "2026-06-09", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Today, 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.\n\n\u201cI\u2019ve 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,\u201d said Rep. Simpson. \u201cDuring 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.\u201d\n\n\u201cMilner Dam is a critical structure for the management of the Snake River in Idaho. We are grateful for Congressman Simpson\u2019s 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,\u201d said Jeff Raybould, Chairman of the Idaho Water Resource Board.\n\nThis 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\u2019s critical role in supporting 50\u201370% of the Idaho Water Resource Board\u2019s aquifer managed recharge program for the Eastern Snake Plain Aquifer (ESPA), the area\u2019s sole source potable water supply.\n\nDespite 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.\n\nAs Idaho\u2019s only appropriator, Rep. Simpson has a unique opportunity to fight for Idaho\u2019s priorities and ensure Idahoans\u2019 hard-earned tax dollars return to Idaho.\n\nThe 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.", 1, "2026-06-10T06:36:00Z", "2026-06-10T06:37:32Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402003", "Rep. Simpson Advances Funding for Dry Creek Bridge Replacement", "2026-06-08", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Today, 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.\n\n\u201cReplacing the nearly 95-year-old Dry Creek Bridge is long overdue,\u201d said Rep. Simpson. \u201cGiven the growth in Twin Falls County and throughout our state, improving and replacing this existing bridge will enhance public safety. I\u2019ve 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.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis 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,\u201d said Idaho Transportation Department District 4 Head Engineer Jesse Barrus.\n\nThis 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\n\nDespite 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.\n\nAs Idaho\u2019s only appropriator, Rep. Simpson has a unique opportunity to fight for Idaho\u2019s priorities and ensure Idahoans\u2019 hard-earned tax dollars return to Idaho.\n\nThe 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.", 1, "2026-06-09T06:27:37Z", "2026-06-09T06:30:10Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402002", "Rep. Simpson Advances World Center for Birds of Prey Funding", "2026-06-05", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Today, 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.\n\n\u201cThe 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,\u201d said Rep. Simpson. \u201cAs 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.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe are grateful to Congressman Simpson for securing this vital funding, which will help protect and preserve Idaho's birds of prey \u2014 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,\u201d said Boise State University Vice President of Research and Economic Development Dr. Nancy Glenn.\n\n\u201cCongressman Simpson has long recognized that The Peregrine Fund's approach \u2014 rigorous science, durable partnerships, and measurable results \u2014 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,\u201dsaid Chris Parish, President & CEO, The Peregrine Fund.\n\nThis 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.\n\nDespite 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.\n\nAs Idaho\u2019s only appropriator, Rep. Simpson has a unique opportunity to fight for Idaho\u2019s priorities and ensure Idahoans\u2019 hard-earned tax dollars return to Idaho.\n\nThe 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.", 1, "2026-06-06T06:16:30Z", "2026-06-06T06:17:47Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401999", "Rep. Simpson Advances Funding for Idaho Water Improvement Projects", "2026-06-04", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson\u2013Chairman of the House Interior and Environment Appropriations Subcommittee\u2013highlighted 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.\n\n\u201cCommunity Project Funding is one of the most effective ways elected officials can deliver meaningful results for our communities,\u201d said Rep. Simpson. \u201cThis funding for water infrastructure improvement projects in small and rural communities is not \u2018wasteful spending,\u2019 it\u2019s vital for ensuring our neighborhoods have clean drinking water and safe infrastructure. As Idaho\u2019s 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.\u201d\n\nCarey\n\n\u201cOn behalf of the City of Carey, we sincerely appreciate Congressman Mike Simpson\u2019s 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,\u201d said Carey Mayor Logan Davis.\n\nDriggs\n\n\u201cMany 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,\u201d said Driggs Mayor August Christensen.\n\nFort Hall\n\n\u201cThis 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,\u201d said Shoshone-Bannock Tribes Chairwoman Donna Thompson.\n\nGrace\n\n\u201cThis 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\u2019s 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,\u201d said Grace Mayor David Pristupa.\n\nRupert\n\n\u201cRural 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\u2019s economy. Congressman Simpson's attention to this growing Idaho problem is insightful and very much appreciated,\u201d said Rupert Mayor Tammy Jones.\n\n\u201cIn 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 \u2018wet industries.\u2019 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,\u201d said President Pro Tempore Kelly Anthon.\n\nTwin Falls\n\n\u201cTwin Falls appreciates Congressman Mike Simpson\u2019s 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\u2019s partnership in helping position Twin Falls for the future,\u201d said Twin Falls Mayor Jason Brown.\n\nDespite claims that CPF projects are \u201cwasteful earmarks,\u201d 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.\n\nAs Idaho\u2019s only appropriator, Rep. Simpson has a unique opportunity to fight for Idaho\u2019s priorities and ensure Idahoans\u2019 hard-earned tax dollars return to Idaho.\n\nThese 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.", 1, "2026-06-05T06:35:23Z", "2026-06-05T06:36:42Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402000", "Rep. Simpson Supports America's Farmers and Ranchers in Agriculture Appropriations Bill", "2026-06-04", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Today, 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\u2019s farmers, agriculture, and rural communities, protects our nation\u2019s food and drug supply, and ensures low-income Americans have access to nutrition programs.\n\n\u201cFrom strengthening America\u2019s 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,\u201d said Rep. Simpson.\n\nHighlights of the bill include:\n\nContinues investments in agriculture research, rural development, loan programs, and animal and plant health programs.\n\nReins in harmful Biden-era regulations that dictate how poultry and livestock producers raise and market their animals.\n\nAddresses foreign ownership of United States agricultural land.\n\nSupports the Trump Administration\u2019s public health priorities.\n\nThe Fiscal Year 2027 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration Appropriations Bill includes Congressman Simpson\u2019s 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.\n\nThis funding package will now go to the Senate for further consideration.", 1, "2026-06-05T06:35:23Z", "2026-06-05T06:36:42Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401997", "Chairman Simpson's FY27 Interior and Environment Appropriations Bill Advances in House Appropriations Committee", "2026-06-03", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Today, the House Committee on Appropriations voted to advance the Fiscal Year 2027 Interior, Environment and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson\u2013Chairman of the House Interior and Environment Appropriations Subcommittee\u2013released the following statement after the Committee approved the bill.\n\n\u201cAs 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,\u201d said Rep. Simpson.\n\n\u201cAmerica\u2019s 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,\u201d said House Committee on Appropriations Chairman Tom Cole.\n\nHighlights of the bill include:\n\nReduces EPA funding by 20%.\n\nProtects access to public lands.\n\nExpands access to critical minerals.\n\nFully funds the PILT program.\n\nProtects oil and gas production.\n\nProhibits rulings used to weaponize the Endangered Species Act against land users and energy producers.\n\nPrioritizes funding for Tribes and Wildland Fire Management.\n\nSubcommittee Chairman Simpson's opening remarks are available here.\n\nThe 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.", 1, "2026-06-04T06:38:12Z", "2026-06-04T06:39:44Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2026/06/02/house-passes-fulchers-bill-to-bolster-geothermal-energy-production/", "House Passes Fulcher\u2019s Bill to Bolster Geothermal Energy Production", "2026-06-02", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher\u2019s bill, the Committing Leases for Energy Access Now (CLEAN) Act, H.R. 1687, passed the House of Representatives by unanimous consent. The legislation now heads to the Senate.\n\nCongressman Fulcher released the following statement after the vote.\n\n\u201cGeothermal is a clean, abundant, and dependable energy resource that can help meet America\u2019s rapidly rising power demands,\u201d said Congressman Fulcher. \u201cHowever, the lack of consistent geothermal lease sales and the slow federal permitting process result in timelines longer than many other energy projects. The bipartisan CLEAN Act will address these barriers and unlock opportunities to explore and develop this renewable energy source. I\u2019m grateful to see my bill pass the House and urge the Senate\u2019s swift consideration of this commonsense measure.\u201d\n\nAccording to the Department of Energy, the United States leads the world in geothermal electricity-generating capacity\u2014just over four gigawatts. That\u2019s enough to power the equivalent of about three million U.S. homes.\n\nBackground\n\nIdaho plays a leading role in geothermal energy production. The City of Boise is home to the nation\u2019s first geothermal district heating system, established in 1892. The system supplies naturally heated water through over 20 miles of pipeline, heating more than six million square feet of building space, including the Idaho State Capitol\u2014the only geothermally heated capitol building in the U.S.\n\nTo begin developing geothermal on federally controlled lands\u2014where approximately 90 percent of viable geothermal resources are located\u2014projects must first obtain a lease, making consistent lease sales crucial to the expansion of this energy source.\n\nThe CLEAN Act amends the Geothermal Steam Act of 1970 to:\n\nRequire yearly lease sales for geothermal energy;\n\nRequire the Secretary to hold replacement lease sales for any sales that are missed in a given calendar year.\n\n###", 1, "2026-06-03T06:40:39Z", "2026-06-03T06:42:22Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401995", "Rep. Simpson Secures INL Priorities in Energy and Water Appropriations Bill", "2026-06-01", "2026", "2026-06", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014The 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\u2019s nuclear deterrent and strengthens national security, restores energy dominance, and supports the Trump administration\u2019s policy initiatives.\n\n\u201cAmerica\u2019s one-of-a-kind nuclear energy laboratory is right here at home at Idaho National Laboratory. Enhancing the Lab\u2019s 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\u2019s only appropriator, I will always fight for priorities that serve our state and national interests,\u201d said Rep. Simpson.\n\n\u201cNuclear energy continues to gain bipartisan momentum across the country, and we are grateful for Congress's sustained commitment to advancing America's nuclear leadership,\u201d 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.\u201d\n\nHighlights of the bill include:\n\n$392M for INL infrastructure and operations.\n\n$40M for INL\u2019s Microreactor Application Research Validation and Evaluation (MARVEL) project.\n\n$65M for the National Reactor Innovation Center.\n\n$19M for the Center for Used Fuel Research at INL.\n\nFunding for a variety of advanced reactor construction and demonstrations.\n\nFunding for further research and development of advanced Tri-structural Isotropic (TRISO) and High-Assay Low Enriched Uranium (HALEU) reactor fuel.\n\nThis funding package will now go to the full floor of the House of Representatives for further consideration", 1, "2026-06-02T06:40:38Z", "2026-06-02T06:42:17Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401989", "Rep. Simpson Cosponsors Resolution to Recognize America 250 Betsy Ross Flag", "2026-05-26", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Idaho 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).\n\n\u201cThe 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,\u201d said Rep. Simpson.", 1, "2026-05-27T06:38:34Z", "2026-05-27T06:40:17Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401988", "Rep. Simpson Cosponsors Resolution Honoring Memorial Day", "2026-05-25", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Idaho 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).\n\n\u201cAs we approach our country\u2019s 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,\u201d said Rep. Simpson.", 1, "2026-05-26T06:27:29Z", "2026-05-26T06:29:16Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401986", "Rep. Simpson Joins Letter Pressing for Action to Protect U.S. Sugar Producers from Unfair Foreign Trade Practices", "2026-05-21", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Idaho 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.\n\n\u201cThe 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\u2019s long-term viability,\u201d wrote the members of Congress.\n\n\u201cU.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\u2026 In the past 10 years, 14 percent of our nation\u2019s 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.\u201d\n\nThe full letter is available here.\n\nThe 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.", 1, "2026-05-22T06:27:39Z", "2026-05-22T06:29:18Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2026/05/20/fulcher-to-host-june-telephone-town-hall/", "Fulcher to Host June Telephone Town Hall", "2026-05-20", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher (Idaho-01) announced his next telephone town hall will take place on June 3, 2026, at 6 p.m. MT, 5 p.m. PT.\n\nThe event serves as an opportunity for residents of Idaho\u2019s First Congressional District to ask questions, share input, and receive a congressional update from Congressman Fulcher. Constituents can participate by dialing 833-998-1718 on a telephone at the time of the event.\n\nCongressman Fulcher hosted a telephone town hall in March that reached over ten thousand Idahoans across the First Congressional District. Issues covered ranged from U.S. involvement in the Middle East to the need for strong domestic energy production, the status of the SAVE Act, and efforts to address the national debt.\n\n###", 1, "2026-05-21T06:28:16Z", "2026-05-21T06:29:43Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401915", "The Need for a Stable, Reliable, and Legal Workforce Remains Imperative", "2026-05-20", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "When a person thinks of Idaho agriculture, the first thing that may come to mind is potatoes. Or maybe it\u2019s sugar beets, barley, or one of the other 180-plus commodities. What many people don\u2019t realize is that dairy is Idaho's top agricultural product in cash receipts.\n\nIdaho\u2019s dairy dominance may not come as a surprise to those directly involved in the industry, but whether we realize it or not, Americans nationwide rely on Idaho dairy for the milk, yogurt, butter, and cheese we consume daily.\n\nDespite dairy being Idaho\u2019s top farm commodity, farmers and ranchers are facing a mounting labor crisis.\n\nOver the past few years, the most common and pressing issue brought to my attention has been the need for a stable, reliable agricultural workforce.\n\nThere is a lot of misinformation out there about addressing this workforce crisis, but the reality is that if Congress doesn\u2019t act to reform our agricultural immigration system, all Americans will feel the pain.\n\nDon't just take my word for it\u2014ask any farmer or rancher, and I guarantee they will agree that a lack of labor reform could jeopardize the stability of the dairy industry.\n\nVolatility and a shortage of workers are putting immense pressure on agricultural producers, which is why states like Idaho need a stable labor force to protect our nation\u2019s food supply and ensure farmers can continue to do their jobs.\n\nFood security is national security, and without addressing the growing workforce, our nation's food supply would be jeopardized. How much are you willing to pay for a gallon of milk?\n\nI have long advocated for reforming the H-2A visa program and enacting common-sense legislation to provide American agriculture with the stable, reliable, and legal workforce it needs. The keyword here is legal.\n\nThe legislative initiatives that I\u2019ve supported and will continue to support do not grant amnesty. Let me be clear: I do not support amnesty for illegal aliens.\n\nInstead, I support H-2A reforms that require undocumented workers to pay a fine for entering the country illegally. Additionally, I do not support the millions of illegal aliens who entered our country under the Biden administration being deemed as eligible for these kinds of labor jobs.\n\nAdditionally, reforming the H-2A visa program would not jeopardize American employment or prioritize illegal workers over American citizens.\n\nThe problem is these are jobs Americans don\u2019t want. Last year, there were 398,000 H-2A applications nationwide. Only 182 Americans chose to fill those jobs. That is 0.045%.\n\nUnder current requirements, Americans receive priority. A search for domestic workers must be conducted first, and employers seeking to use the H-2A program must demonstrate that efforts to recruit American workers were unsuccessful. Enacting common-sense reform to this program would not change the current requirements.\n\nRight now, under President Trump\u2019s leadership and the most secure border in American history, we have the best chance of agricultural immigration reform. I\u2019m confident that we can get a legislative fix across the finish line.\n\nPresident Trump has emphasized his commitment to protecting America\u2019s farmers while removing violent criminals who have no place in our country. The President sticks to his word, and I believe he is the only President with the courage to lead on this issue, but it\u2019s up to Congress to act.\n\nI represent one of the most productive dairy districts in the nation, and I take my responsibility to provide Idaho\u2019s farmers and ranchers with a legislative solution to their workforce shortage seriously. Finding a bipartisan path forward that will protect our farms and our nation\u2019s food supply is possible, and I will continue fighting to solve this issue.", 1, "2026-05-23T06:08:46Z", "2026-05-23T06:10:20Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401983", "Rep. Simpson Fights for Burley\u2019s Industrial Wastewater Treatment Plant", "2026-05-20", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson, a longtime member and former Chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, recently highlighted new federal funding for renovations of Burley\u2019s industrial wastewater treatment plant. The United States Army Corps of Engineers, which is funded through the annual appropriations process, included funding for this project in its Fiscal Year 2026 Work Plan.\n\n\u201cI am pleased to see the Army Corps of Engineers include critical funding to upgrade Burley\u2019s industrial wastewater treatment plan, authorized in the Water Resources Development Act of 2024 at my request\u201d said Rep. Simpson. \u201cThis funding will improve water quality in the Magic Valley and support Burley\u2019s economic growth. As a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee on Energy and Water Development, I have worked closely with the Army Corps of Engineers and have expressed how necessary this renovation project is for rural Idaho communities.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe sincerely appreciate Congressman Simpson\u2019s pivotal role in securing federal support for Burley\u2019s Industrial Wastewater Treatment Project, including his leadership in including a $20 million authorization for the project in WRDA 2024. By advocating for project funding in the FY26 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Work Plan and requesting additional investment in FY27, Congressman Simpson has done essential work to move this project forward. These efforts to improve Burley\u2019s wastewater treatment capacity are essential for the health and development of our local agricultural community and small businesses,\u201d said Burley City Administrator Brett Boyer.\n\nThis funding will be used for the design and construction of Phase 1A of upgrades at Burley\u2019s industrial wastewater treatment plant, which will improve redundancy in the plant.\n\nRep. Simpson recently led a letter for the inclusion of upgrades with support from Idaho Senators Crapo and Risch. The full letter is available here.", 1, "2026-05-21T06:28:16Z", "2026-05-21T06:29:43Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401981", "Rep. Simpson Advances Funding for Repeater Site on Black Mountain", "2026-05-19", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson highlighted the inclusion of $525,000 in funding for the Black Mountain Project 25 Repeater Site Project in Caribou County, Idaho, at his request through Community Project Funding (CPF) in the Fiscal Year 2027 Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill.\n\n\u201cThe Caribou County Sheriff\u2019s Office has made it abundantly clear that expanding coverage in Caribou County and in areas of Bingham and Bonneville counties will enhance law enforcement communications, which are currently limited in certain areas. Adding a repeater site will help close coverage gaps and strengthen first-responder communications. I will always advocate for funding in any way, shape, or form to support Idaho\u2019s finest doing their jobs,\u201d said Rep. Simpson.\n\n\u201cThe Caribou County Sheriff's Office is excited to participate in the CJS FY27 repeater site project to improve and update the communication infrastructure at the Black Mountain Communications Site. Because Caribou County is a fairly large rural county, emergency services communication can be difficult and sometimes nonexistent. The Black Mountain project will greatly increase communication capabilities for all aspects of emergency services in southeastern Idaho. We are grateful for the efforts of Representative Simpson and his staff in making this project possible,\u201d said Sheriff J Adam Mabey, Caribou County Sheriff's Office.\n\nThis funding would be used to add a Project 25 repeater to an existing tower on Black Mountain. The proposed project would establish an additional simulcast receiver to expand critical two-way radio coverage in areas that currently lack reliable 700 MHz trunked radio service. This would significantly improve communications coverage for the Caribou County Sheriff\u2019s Office.\n\nAs Idaho\u2019s only appropriator, Rep. Simpson has a unique opportunity to fight for Idaho\u2019s priorities and ensure Idahoans\u2019 hard-earned tax dollars return to Idaho.\n\nThe Black Mountain P25 Repeater Site Project is a part of the Fiscal Year 2027 Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. This measure has been approved by the House Appropriations Committee.", 1, "2026-05-20T06:27:31Z", "2026-05-20T06:28:54Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401980", "Rep. Simpson Advances Funding for Montpelier Police Department Radio Upgrade", "2026-05-18", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson highlighted the inclusion of $66,000 in funding for the Montpelier Police Department Radio Upgrade Project in Montpelier, Idaho, at his request through Community Project Funding (CPF) in the Fiscal Year 2027 Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill.\n\n\u201cSeveral Idaho police officers have vocalized that outdated communication equipment for their department can result in problematic operational challenges. I hear these concerns and want our law enforcement officers to serve our communities to the best of their ability. I am proud to fight for these radio upgrades for Montpelier\u2019s Police Department, so they have the resources they need to respond efficiently in emergencies,\u201d said Rep. Simpson.\n\n\u201cOn behalf of the Montpelier Police Department and the community we serve, I want to sincerely thank Congressman Simpson for his continued support of Idaho\u2019s first responders,\u201d said Chief Blake Wells of the Montpelier Police Department. \u201cThe funding Congressman Simpson helped secure will allow our department to purchase much-needed in-vehicle and handheld radios, improving our ability to communicate effectively and respond safely in critical situations. These upgrades are essential for officer safety, interoperability, and providing the highest level of service to our citizens. We greatly appreciate Congressman Simpson\u2019s commitment to public safety and rural law enforcement agencies across Idaho.\u201d\n\nThis funding will be used to replace its handheld and vehicle radio equipment with newer models. The Montpelier Police Department is currently using equipment that is over 10 years old.\n\nAs Idaho\u2019s only appropriator, Rep. Simpson has a unique opportunity to fight for Idaho\u2019s priorities and ensure Idahoans\u2019 hard-earned tax dollars return to Idaho.\n\nThe Montpelier Police Department Radio Upgrade Project is a part of the Fiscal Year 2027 Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. This measure has been approved by the House Appropriations Committee.", 1, "2026-05-19T06:31:01Z", "2026-05-19T06:32:40Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2026/05/15/fulcher-votes-to-reauthorize-veterans-programs-and-support-servicemembers/", "Fulcher Votes to Reauthorize Veterans\u2019 Programs and Support Servicemembers", "2026-05-15", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher (Idaho-01) released the following statement after voting to advance H.R. 8469, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2027 (MilCon-VA).\n\n\u201cHaving the backs of those who serve\u2014and those who have served\u2014our nation must always remain a national priority,\u201d said Congressman Fulcher. \u201cI have voted in favor of the MilCon-VA appropriations bill, the first appropriations bill to pass the House for Fiscal Year 2027. This legislation champions our Veterans and servicemembers by prioritizing improvements at VA Medical Facilities, fully reauthorizing Veterans\u2019 healthcare programs and benefits, and strengthening military housing and childcare services for active-duty personnel and their families.\u201d\n\nBill Background\n\nFully funds Veterans\u2019 health care programs and benefits\n\nPrioritizes improvements at VA Medical Facilities and four national cemeteries\n\nProtects the 2nd Amendment rights of Veterans, preventing the VA from sending information to the FBI about Veterans without a judge\u2019s consent\n\nSupports the White House administration\u2019s efforts to improve mental health and suicide prevention among Veterans\n\nProhibits the VA from purchasing resources directly or indirectly from Communist China\n\n###", 1, "2026-05-16T06:05:00Z", "2026-05-16T06:06:37Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401977", "Rep. Simpson Advances Funding for Handheld and Mobile Vehicle Radios for Bingham County Sheriff\u2019s Office", "2026-05-15", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson highlighted the inclusion of $440,000 in funding for the Bingham County Sheriff\u2019s Office Mobile and Handheld Radio Update Project in Blackfoot, Idaho, at his request through Community Project Funding (CPF) in the Fiscal Year 2027 Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill.\n\n\u201cImproving communication among our law enforcement officers can truly save lives,\u201d said Rep. Simpson. \u201cWhen responding to emergencies, nothing is more important than for our law enforcement to be equipped with up-to-date resources. I join Idahoans and express my gratitude to our brave law enforcement officers for their tireless work in keeping our communities safe. As Idaho\u2019s only appropriator, I take pride in advocating for funding to support these dedicated heroes and their service.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe are extremely thankful for Congressman Simpson\u2019s support of Idaho First Responders. Funds secured by Congressman Simpson will allow us to make critical updates to our outdated radio units, both handheld and those that are mobile in vehicles. This technology is an increasingly large, daunting task for all First Responders to keep up with through local funding mechanisms, but it is a lifeline for us and those we serve. Congressman Simpson\u2019s willingness to support us in emergency communications\u2014when lives are on the line and every second counts\u2014tells us that he clearly understands priorities and wants to keep Idahoans safe,\u201d said Chief Deputy of Bingham County Sheriff\u2019s Office Jordyn Nebeker.\n\nThis funding would be used to secure 30 handheld radio units and 25 mobile radio units for mission-critical Law Enforcement emergency communication needs. The Bingham County Sheriff's Office is experiencing a major need to make capital improvements to replace outdated and/or end-of-life handheld and mobile radios.\n\nAs Idaho\u2019s only appropriator, Rep. Simpson has a unique opportunity to fight for Idaho\u2019s priorities and ensure Idahoans\u2019 hard-earned tax dollars return to Idaho.", 1, "2026-05-16T06:05:00Z", "2026-05-16T06:06:37Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401979", "Rep. Simpson Votes to Fully Fund Veterans Health Care and Benefits", "2026-05-15", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Today, the United States House of Representatives passed the Fiscal Year 2027 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson supported this advancement. This bill champions America\u2019s veterans by fully funding veterans\u2019 health care programs and benefits. This legislation also supports military families, strengthens America\u2019s defense, and supports the Trump administration\u2019s policy initiatives.\n\n\u201cOne of my top priorities in Congress is supporting our troops and veterans,\u201d said Rep. Simpson. \u201cBy fully funding veterans\u2019 health care programs and benefits, investing in mental health services, prioritizing funding for military family housing, and so much more, this legislation fulfills our promises to those who have sacrificed so greatly for our country. This is a must-pass bill each year to honor the brave men and women who have courageously served.\u201d\n\nHighlights of the bill include:\n\nFully funding veterans\u2019 health care programs.\n\nFully funding veterans\u2019 benefits and VA programs.\n\nProtecting the 2nd Amendment rights of veterans, preventing VA from sending information to the FBI about veterans without a judge\u2019s consent.\n\nSupporting the Trump Administration\u2019s efforts in improving mental health and suicide prevention among veterans.\n\nThe Fiscal Year 2027 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill keeps America\u2019s promise to its veterans by fully funding veterans\u2019 health care programs, benefits, and other critical VA programs. The measure was approved with a vote of 400 to 15.\n\nThis funding package will now go to the Senate for further consideration.", 1, "2026-05-16T06:05:00Z", "2026-05-16T06:06:37Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401976", "Rep. Simpson Advances Funding for CWI\u2019s River District Project", "2026-05-14", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson highlighted the inclusion of $2,165,000 in funding for the College of Western Idaho River District Project in Boise, Idaho, at his request through Community Project Funding (CPF) in the Fiscal Year 2027 Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill.\n\n\u201cThe College of Western Idaho\u2019s new academic center is an investment in the future of career technical education, cybersecurity, business, and much more,\u201d said Rep. Simpson. \u201cAs the new center is set to open next year, this funding will help the college purchase the resources necessary to be ready for classes that fall. I\u2019m proud to support this project because it benefits Idaho students, education, and the workforce.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe appreciate Congressman Simpson's support for this important project, which will strengthen CWI's ability to serve more students at our Micron Academic Center in Boise,\u201d said CWI President Gordon Jones. \u201cThis investment will expand access to Cybersecurity and Computer Science, Business, and other general education programs, helping more students build skills that lead directly to in-demand careers and support Idaho's workforce needs.\u201d\n\nThis funding will help the College of Western Idaho purchase equipment at the new facility and provide students with modern labs, specialized institutional spaces, and advanced network infrastructure to support hands-on training, applied research, and industry-aligned learning environments.\n\nAs Idaho\u2019s only appropriator, Rep. Simpson has a unique opportunity to fight for Idaho\u2019s priorities and ensure Idahoans\u2019 hard-earned tax dollars return to Idaho.\n\nThe College of Western Idaho River District Project is a part of the Fiscal Year 2027 Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. This measure has been approved by the House Appropriations Committee.", 1, "2026-05-15T06:17:41Z", "2026-05-15T06:18:51Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401978", "Rep. Simpson Supports Pro-Law Enforcement Legislation During National Police Week", "2026-05-14", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014This National Police Week, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson voted in favor of several critical pieces of pro-law-enforcement legislation that highlight support for America\u2019s brave men and women in blue.\n\n\u201cSupporting our brave law enforcement has always been one of my top priorities in Congress,\u201d said Rep. Simpson. \u201cIn times of emergencies, the men and women in blue respond. It is vital that they have the resources necessary to perform their jobs safely and efficiently. My House Republican colleagues and I are committed to ensuring this support. I will always stand behind our law enforcement and support efforts to defend these brave individuals, not defund.\u201d\n\nThe National Police Week of 2026 legislation includes:", 1, "2026-05-16T06:05:00Z", "2026-05-16T06:06:37Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401974", "Rep. Simpson Cosponsors the Title IX Clarification Act", "2026-05-13", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson cosponsored the Title IX Clarification Act. This bill would codify that Title IX nondiscrimination requirements tied to federal education funding are based on the biological reality of sex. This resolution is sponsored by Rep. Jodey Arrington (R-TX).\n\n\u201cIdaho led the charge as the first state to protect fairness in women's sports in response to the Biden administration\u2019s radical rewrite of Title IX. None of this would have been possible without Idaho State Representative Barbara Ehardt\u2019s courageous leadership. Common sense was under attack, and Americans must never forget this insanity. which would have jeopardized the safety and rights of girls and women nationwide. To combat the Left's delusions and prevent future misinterpretations, Congress must clarify and restore Title IX's original meaning,\u201d said Rep. Mike Simpson.\n\n\u201cTitle IX was created to provide equal opportunity for our daughters, not to push a radical gender ideology that jeopardizes their safety,\u201d said Rep. Arrington. \u201cMy Title IX Clarification Act stops the abuse of Title IX by affirming a simple truth: there are only two sexes - male and female - and taxpayer dollars should not be used to advance extreme social policies. I\u2019m proud to lead this effort to protect opportunities for women and girls, rein in bureaucratic overreach, and restore clarity and common sense to federal law.\u201d\n\nRep. Simpson has been a strong advocate for protecting women\u2019s sports. He recently joined a rally to save women\u2019s sports on the steps of the United States Supreme Court as the Justices listened to oral arguments on Little v. Hecox and West Virginia v. B.P.J. Rep. Simpson also signed an Amicus Brief supporting Idaho\u2019s law and defending the integrity of women\u2019s sports. Additionally, Rep. Simpson has supported and cosponsored several key bills to prohibit males from participating in athletic programs or activities designated for women.", 1, "2026-05-14T06:11:37Z", "2026-05-14T06:12:56Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401975", "Rep. Simpson Advances Funding for ISU\u2019s Efforts to Expand Research in Critical Minerals", "2026-05-13", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson highlighted the inclusion of $2,069,000 in funding for the Expanding the Research Core: Advanced Imaging, Sequencing, Omics, and Critical Materials Capabilities Project in Pocatello, Idaho, at his request through Community Project Funding (CPF) in the Fiscal Year 2027 Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill.\n\n\u201cRecovering critical minerals can significantly enhance the long-term energy, environmental, and national security of our state and nation. I have long advocated for expanding access to critical minerals, and I am proud to support Idaho State University\u2019s efforts to expand its research capacity into this recovery happening right here at home,\u201d said Rep. Simpson.\n\n\u201cWe appreciate Congressman Simpson's leadership in helping ISU fulfill its Contract for Idaho. This investment in ISU's research capacity enhances ISU's state-of-the-art imaging, sequencing, and critical mineral capabilities. It ensures our students are trained on the tools industry requires, while our faculty solve the real-world challenges facing Idaho\u2019s energy and mineral sectors. Together, we are securing a self-reliant future for our state by connecting science, industry, and workforce development to create a lasting economic impact,\u201d said Idaho State University President Robert Wagner.\n\n\u201cAcquiring these instruments represents a major advancement for ISU\u2019s education and research mission. These resources will provide students with hands-on training, preparing them for high-paying careers in industry and research. In addition, the enhanced infrastructure will strengthen ISU researchers\u2019 competitiveness for federal funding focused on critical minerals, water systems, and environmental challenges. This investment will help position Idaho as a leader in sustainable resource recovery by connecting science, industry, and workforce development,\u201d said Kavita Sharma, PhD. ISU Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences.\n\nThis funding will allow Idaho State University to purchase specialized equipment, enabling further research into critical mineral recovery.\n\nAs Idaho\u2019s only appropriator, Rep. Simpson has a unique opportunity to fight for Idaho\u2019s priorities and ensure Idahoans\u2019 hard-earned tax dollars return to Idaho.\n\nThe Expanding the Research Core: Advanced Imaging, Sequencing, Omics, and Critical Materials Capabilities Project is a part of the Fiscal Year 2027 Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. This measure has been approved by the House Appropriations Committee.", 1, "2026-05-14T06:11:37Z", "2026-05-14T06:12:56Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2026/05/11/fulcher-co-sponsors-major-richard-star-act/", "Fulcher Co-Sponsors Major Richard Star Act", "2026-05-11", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher (Idaho-01) released the following statement after co-sponsoring the Major Richard Star Act, H.R. 2102.\n\n\u201cAs a nation, we must always stand by and support our Veterans. I am honored to co-sponsor the Major Richard Star Act, H.R. 2102. This bipartisan legislation will ensure that when a Veteran has to retire early due to combat or combat-related injuries, they receive both their disability benefits and the full retirement pay that they have rightfully earned. I urge this legislation to be taken up, passed, and enacted swiftly,\u201d said Congressman Fulcher.\n\n###", 1, "2026-05-12T06:07:57Z", "2026-05-12T06:09:10Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2026/05/08/fulcher-announces-25-million-returned-to-idahoans-through-casework/", "Fulcher Announces $25 Million Returned to Idahoans Through Casework", "2026-05-08", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher (Idaho-01) announced that $25,050,884 has been returned to Idahoans through casework. This is money that was owed to constituents but was held up in a federal agency.\n\nSince arriving in Congress, Congressman Fulcher\u2019s office has opened 7,938 cases and closed 7,268, with those involving the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and Department of Veterans Affairs being the most prevalent.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m proud to share that through my office\u2019s casework efforts, we have successfully returned more than $25 million to hardworking Idahoans in the First Congressional District,\u201d said Congressman Fulcher. \u201cI always say one of the most impactful things our team has the privilege to do is help Veterans, seniors, and everyday citizens with federal agencies. Whether it is advocating for the assistance they need, acquiring a timely response, or cutting through government bureaucracy and red tape, my casework team and I are devoted to delivering results for constituents.\u201d\n\nResidents of the First District are encouraged to contact Congressman Fulcher\u2019s office at (208) 888-3188 or to visit https://fulcher.house.gov/services/help-with-a-federal-agency/ if they are having trouble receiving an answer from a federal agency in a timely fashion, or if they feel they have been treated unfairly.\n\n###", 1, "2026-05-09T06:00:32Z", "2026-05-09T06:02:31Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401970", "Rep. Simpson Cosponsors Resolution to Recognize National Small Business Week", "2026-05-07", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson cosponsored a resolution to designate May 3rd to May 9th, 2026, as National Small Business Week. This resolution is sponsored by Rep. Brad Finstad (R-MN).\n\n\u201cIdaho\u2019s small businesses are the backbone of our state and economy,\u201d said Rep. Simpson. \u201cIn my district alone, there are 24,142 small businesses with employees. I will always advocate for policies that invest in our small businesses and deliver tax certainty, like the Working Families Tax Cuts. As National Small Business Week comes to an end, I join Idahoans in expressing my gratitude to the small business owners and employees throughout our great state.\u201d", 1, "2026-05-08T05:46:43Z", "2026-05-08T05:48:09Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401966", "Rep. Simpson Cosponsors FAIR Labels Act", "2026-05-06", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson cosponsored H.R. 8596, the Fair and Accurate Ingredient Representation on Labels (FAIR Labels) Act, a bipartisan bill aimed at preventing misleading labels on alternative protein products. This legislation is sponsored by Rep. Mark Alford (R-MO).\n\n\u201cBeef is one of Idaho\u2019s most important agricultural commodities,\u201d said Rep. Simpson, an original cosponsor. \u201cFalsely labeling a plant-based or lab-grown protein hurts farmers, ranchers, and consumers. It's basic common sense to ensure that the products Americans put in their grocery carts are accurately labeled. I\u2019m proud to cosponsor this legislation and advocate for Idaho\u2019s cattle industry.\u201d\n\nThe full text of the bill is available here.\n\nThe Senate companion of the FAIR Labels Act is led by Senators Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and John Fetterman (D-PA).", 1, "2026-05-07T13:38:59Z", "2026-05-07T13:40:28Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401963", "Rep. Simpson Cosponsors Resolution to Designate May 5th as National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls", "2026-05-05", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson cosponsored a resolution to designate May 5th, 2026, as the \u201cNational Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.\u201d May 5th is the date of remembrance selected each year in honor of the birth date of Hanna Harris, a member of the Northern Cheyenne Tribe, who was murdered after being reported missing in Lame Deer, Montana. This bipartisan resolution is sponsored by Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA).\n\n\u201cThe number of Indigenous women and girls who have been murdered or gone missing every year is staggering,\u201d said Rep. Simpson. \u201cI have been raising awareness about this disproportionate rate, and will continue to use my role as Chairman of the House Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee to support the federal agencies working to address this crisis. This is an important resolution, and I'm proud to sign on as a cosponsor.\u201d", 1, "2026-05-06T06:05:57Z", "2026-05-06T06:07:49Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401962", "Rep. Simpson Cosponsors DAIRY PRIDE Act", "2026-05-04", "2026", "2026-05", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson cosponsored H.R. 8414, the Defending Against Imitations and Replacements of Yogurt, Milk, and Cheese to Promote Regular Intake of Dairy Everyday or DAIRY PRIDE Act, a bipartisan bill aimed at ensuring the accurate labeling of dairy products and protecting consumers from misleading marketing. This legislation is sponsored by Reps. John Joyce (R-PA) and Josh Riley (D-NY).\n\n\u201cMilk comes from a cow\u2014not an almond or coconut or anything plant-based,\u201d said Rep. Simpson. \u201cAs we strive to Make America Healthy Again, consumers must be provided with honest nutritional labeling. I represent one of the most dairy-productive districts in the nation, and I remain committed to being a voice for dairy in Congress. I\u2019m proud to cosponsor this common sense measure once again.\u201d\n\nCongressman Simpson has long supported the DAIRY PRIDE Act and efforts to prevent milk alternatives or plant-based products from being marketed or misbranded using terms commonly associated with dairy products.", 1, "2026-05-05T05:58:12Z", "2026-05-05T05:59:44Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401960", "Rep. Simpson Celebrates Passage of Farm Bill", "2026-04-30", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014 Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson voted in favor of H.R. 7567, the Farm, Food, and National Security Act, a bill that reauthorizes, modernizes, and improves key United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs through 2031, providing certainty to farmers and stakeholders.\n\n\u201cI regularly hear from farmers, ranchers, and producers in Idaho, and their main concern over the years has been when Congress will reauthorize the Farm Bill,\u201d said Rep. Simpson. \u201cThanks to a Republican White House, Senate, and House, we have officially delivered on our promise to provide certainty to those who feed our nation. While this legislation supports and invests in our rural communities, it also strengthens our national security by protecting our domestic food supply. I look forward to President Trump signing this bill into law.\u201d\n\nHighlights of the Farm Bill include:\n\nExpands access to credit and risk management tools for producers who are facing some of the toughest times in the farm economy since the crisis of the 1980s.\n\nIs the most pro-specialty crop farm bill in history, prioritizing domestic production of healthy fruits and vegetables.\n\nProtects interstate commerce for livestock producers and provides regulatory certainty for farmers who need access to critical crop protection tools.\n\nIncreases funding for further export market development, critical for Idaho commodities and producers.\n\nModernizes rural development and energy programs, prioritizes cutting-edge research, expands access to meat processing, and codifies key initiatives related to national security and foreign ownership of farmland.\n\nThe measure was approved with a vote of 224-200.", 1, "2026-05-01T06:06:26Z", "2026-05-01T06:08:22Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401959", "Rep. Simpson Advances Funding for Aberdeen Research and Extension Center", "2026-04-29", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson highlighted the inclusion of $5,000,000 in funding for the USDA-ARS University of Idaho Aberdeen Research and Extension Center Potato Breeding Facilities Project in Aberdeen, Idaho, at his request through Community Project Funding (CPF) in the Fiscal Year 2027 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration Appropriations Bill.\n\n\u201cPotatoes are one of Idaho\u2019s most important crops, and our state leads the nation in production,\u201d said Rep. Simpson. \u201cThe University of Idaho has conducted phenomenal research on various crops and provided valuable information to producers about these key agricultural products. As the University continues to expand its research to meet industry needs, it is crucial that funding keeps pace with the research efforts. I am proud to support this project, and as we continue to support the potato industry, we should strive for the goal that ten out of ten Americans associate potatoes with Idaho, rather than just nine out of ten!\u201d\n\n\u201cWe are thankful for Congressman Simpson\u2019s continued support and advocacy for Idaho agriculture,\u201d said Leslie D. Edgar, J.R. Simplot Endowed Dean of the University of Idaho College of Agricultural and Life Sciences. \u201cFunds secured by Congressman Simpson will allow us to make critical updates to potato storage and greenhouse facilities at our Aberdeen Research and Extension Center, advancing the essential research we conduct in partnership with USDA-ARS. These updates will allow us to better support Idaho\u2019s $8.5 billion potato industry and ensure the U.S. has resilient potato varieties for the future.\u201d\n\n\u201cCongressman Simpson\u2019s support for the Aberdeen Research and Extension Center represents a meaningful investment in the future of Idaho agriculture. Advances in potato breeding and research are vital to improving productivity, sustainability, and resilience for our growers, and this funding helps ensure they remain competitive in a rapidly changing environment,\u201d said Matt Dorsey, Idaho Farm Bureau Federation President.\n\n\u201cOn behalf of Idaho's potato industry, I extend my heartfelt thanks to Congressman Simpson and the House Appropriations Committee for advancing the Fiscal Year 2027 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration Appropriations Bill that includes critical funding for the Aberdeen Research and Extension Center. This investment ensures Idaho will continue to lead the nation\u2014and the world\u2014in cutting-edge potato research, supporting our growers, strengthening our Nation\u2019s food security, and driving innovation for years to come,\u201d said Jamey Higham, Idaho Potato Commission President.\n\nThis funding will be used to update federally owned storage and greenhouse facilities at the Aberdeen Research and Extension Center to ensure it can continue conducting the necessary research needed by the potato industry. The Aberdeen Research and Extension Center is home to several potato research projects investigating potato-related diseases and disease management techniques; potato pests; potato cropping systems and weed biology, control, and herbicide resistance; and potato variety development. The center plays a crucial role in the development of potato varietals that are higher-yielding, more disease-resistant, and have better end-use qualities than past varieties.\n\nAs Idaho\u2019s only appropriator, Rep. Simpson has a unique opportunity to fight for Idaho\u2019s priorities and ensure Idahoans\u2019 hard-earned tax dollars return to Idaho.\n\nThe University of Idaho\u2019s Aberdeen Research and Extension Center Potato Breeding Facilities Project is a part of the Fiscal Year 2027 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration Appropriations Bill. This measure has been approved by the House Appropriations Committee.", 1, "2026-04-30T06:05:15Z", "2026-04-30T06:07:09Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2026/04/25/fulchers-statement-on-the-passing-of-idaho-governor-dirk-kempthorne/", "Fulcher\u2019s Statement on the Passing of Idaho Governor Dirk Kempthorne", "2026-04-25", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher (Idaho-01) released the following statement mourning the passing of former Idaho Governor Dirk Kempthorne.\n\n\u201cI am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Governor Dirk Kempthorne. Dirk was a dear friend, a trusted mentor, and a devoted public servant. From his time as Mayor of Boise to his service as a U.S. Senator, Governor of Idaho, and Secretary of the Interior, he worked selflessly on behalf of America and our Idaho,\u201d said Congressman Fulcher. \u201cI will always cherish his wisdom, steadfast friendship, and Christian example. My prayers and deepest condolences are with his wife, Patricia, and their children. Rest in peace, friend.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-28T06:05:12Z", "2026-04-28T06:07:17Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401953", "Rep. Simpson Statement on Passing of Dirk Kempthorne", "2026-04-25", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014 Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson released the following statement mourning the passing of former Idaho Governor Dirk Kempthorne.\n\n\u201cDirk Kempthorne was one of Idaho's most distinguished public servants and my dear friend of over 40 years,\" said Rep. Simpson. \"Dirk's career was a testament to selfless dedication, from the halls of local government as Mayor and Governor to national service as Senator and Secretary. I join Idahoans today in mourning the loss of Dirk, but also feel immense gratitude for his decades of service, loyalty, and the lasting impact he has had on Idaho and America. I am grateful for Dirk's service to our state and nation, as well as his friendship all these years. To Patricia, his wife, and their children, Kathy and I extend our deepest condolences. May he rest in peace.\u201d", 1, "2026-04-26T05:53:47Z", "2026-04-26T05:55:08Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401951", "America\u2019s New Nuclear Era Starts in Idaho", "2026-04-22", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "America has finally decided to get serious about nuclear energy again.\n\nPresident Donald Trump\u2019s executive orders launching a nuclear energy emergency and directing federal agencies to dramatically accelerate advanced reactor deployment signal a turning point. After decades of hesitation, America is once again treating nuclear power as the strategic asset it has always been \u2014 essential to energy security, economic strength and global leadership. We are at the beginning of a new nuclear era, and Idaho is at its center.\n\nThis moment has not emerged from executive orders alone. It is built on years of investment and legislative action that created the foundation for what we are now able to do. As a former chairman and current senior member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, I have had direct responsibility for funding the Department of Energy\u2019s nuclear programs. Year after year, that meant fighting to protect and grow investments in nuclear research, development, and demonstration at a time when support was far from guaranteed.\n\nAs we enter what I refer to as a nuclear renaissance, largely thanks to support from the Trump administration, I\u2019ve been able to secure several priorities for the Idaho National Laboratory (INL) during the past fiscal year. These priorities will enhance the Lab\u2019s infrastructure and operations, provide funding for advanced reactor construction and demonstrations and support the Demonstration of Microreactor Experiments (DOME) Test Bed, which I discuss further below. Securing these priorities would not have been possible without the appropriations process.\n\nThe appropriations I fought for throughout the years restored critical federal investment in advanced reactor programs. Sustained funding for the Department of Energy\u2019s Office of Nuclear Energy kept the science alive during the lean years. These victories required continuous effort, coalition building and an unwavering conviction that nuclear energy\u2019s best days were still ahead. I believe they are.\n\nNowhere is that more evident than at Idaho National Laboratory, America\u2019s one-of-a-kind nuclear energy laboratory. For more than 70 years, INL has been the heart of nuclear innovation. The Laboratory conducted the world\u2019s first usable nuclear-generated electricity in 1951. It developed the reactors that power our Navy. It established the safety standards and testing protocols that underpin the entire commercial nuclear industry. Fifty-two reactors have operated on the desert plain east of Idaho Falls.\n\nINL\u2019s mission has never been more urgent. The Laboratory is now home to the most advanced nuclear research capabilities in the world, and it is deploying them in service of the national interest. One of the most significant examples is the DOME reactor test bed. DOME is the original containment structure from EBR-II, the Experimental Breeder Reactor that operated at INL for more than 30 years and pioneered the liquid metal fast reactor technology that influenced advanced reactor concepts still being developed today.\n\nNot long ago, DOME was slated for demolition as part of INL\u2019s legacy cleanup work. In a visionary decision, Department of Energy leadership made the call to save it. Repurposed as a modern microreactor test bed, DOME gives American developers the ability to take new reactor concepts from design to demonstration at the pace the new nuclear era demands. Retrofitting DOME for its new use completed just at the beginning of this month, and now this structure that nearly disappeared is one of the most strategically valuable test facilities in the world.\n\nThe stakes are high. China and Russia are aggressively exporting their reactor technology, financing nuclear plants across the developing world, and positioning themselves as the partners of choice for nations seeking to grow their energy capacity. The United States cannot cede that ground. The nations that build the world\u2019s reactors write the rules for how nuclear technology is governed, operated, and safeguarded for generations.\n\nAmerica has the science, engineering talent, safety culture and institutions it takes to lead the nuclear energy sector. What we needed was the will and the investment to act. That investment has been made. Now, with the right policy environment and the full capabilities of Idaho National Laboratory engaged, America is ready to reclaim its place as the world\u2019s premier nuclear energy nation.\n\nThe new nuclear era is here. And it starts in Idaho.", 1, "2026-04-23T05:48:52Z", "2026-04-23T05:50:10Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401950", "Rep. Simpson Votes to Fully Fund Veterans Health Care and Benefits", "2026-04-21", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014 Today, the House Committee on Appropriations voted to advance the Fiscal Year 2027 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson supported this advancement. This bill champions America\u2019s veterans by fully funding veterans\u2019 health care programs and benefits. This legislation also supports military families, strengthens America\u2019s defense, and supports the Trump administration\u2019s policy initiatives.\n\n\u201cOne of my top priorities in Congress is supporting our troops and veterans,\u201d said Rep. Simpson. \u201cBy fully funding veterans\u2019 health care programs and benefits, investing in mental health services, prioritizing funding for military family housing, and so much more, this legislation fulfills our promises to those who have sacrificed so greatly for our country. This is a must-pass bill each year to honor the brave men and women who have courageously served. I look forward to seeing this bill cross the finish line.\u201d\n\nHighlights of the bill include:\n\nFully funding veterans\u2019 health care programs.\n\nFully funding veterans\u2019 benefits and VA programs.\n\nProtecting the 2nd Amendment rights of veterans, preventing VA from sending information to the FBI about veterans without a judge\u2019s consent.\n\nSupporting the Trump Administration\u2019s efforts in improving mental health and suicide prevention among veterans.\n\nThe measure was approved by the Committee with a vote of 58 to 0.\n\nThis funding package will now go to the full floor of the House of Representatives for further consideration.", 1, "2026-04-22T05:46:42Z", "2026-04-22T05:48:06Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2026/04/20/fulcher-on-announcement-of-secure-rural-schools-payments-helped-facilitate-house-vote/", "Fulcher on Announcement of Secure Rural Schools Payments, Helped Facilitate House Vote", "2026-04-20", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher (Idaho-01) released the following statement after the U.S. Forest Service announced it will issue $248 million in Secure Rural Schools (SRS) payments for 2025 and $182 million in retroactive payments for 2024. These funds go to eligible states and counties with untaxed National Forest System lands.\n\nThe announcement comes after the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act of 2025 in December of last year, which was later signed into law. The bill reauthorized the U.S. Forest Service\u2019s Secure Rural Schools and Self-Determination Program through Fiscal Year 2026 and provided lapsed payments for 2024 and 2025, a measure Congressman Fulcher helped facilitate get on the House floor and advocated for with House Speaker Mike Johnson and House Republican Leadership.\n\n\u201cFederal programs like SRS are vital to Idaho\u2019s rural communities, where a significant portion of land is owned by the federal government. However, this funding has grown increasingly difficult to garner support for in the U.S. Congress, as states without vast federal landholdings often view this program as a subsidy,\u201d said Congressman Fulcher. \u201cI am grateful to Speaker Johnson and House Republican Leadership for their collaborative efforts with my office to get legislation to provide payments through Fiscal Year 2026\u2014in addition to lapsed payments for 2024 and 2025\u2014on the House floor and passed. While I am very pleased to see these funds released, I will continue to advocate for a long-term solution in Congress.\u201d\n\nIdaho counties will receive a total of $24 million in payments for Fiscal Year 2025 and $27 million for 2024.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-21T05:46:59Z", "2026-04-21T05:48:34Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401948", "Rep. Simpson Expresses Support for Tax Policies that Support Working Families", "2026-04-17", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014This week, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson voted in favor of H.Res. 1156, a congressional resolution expressing support for tax policies that support working families. This resolution was introduced by Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA).\n\n\u201cWorking families in Idaho and throughout the country are keeping more of their hard-earned money thanks to the Working Families Tax Cuts. Because of a promise kept by President Trump and Republicans, these tax policies are why Americans are getting larger tax refunds this tax filing season. Voting for policies that support working families was one of the easiest decisions I've made during my time in Congress. It would be difficult for me to explain to families back home why I would vote against policies that benefit low-to middle-class families, American workers, and small businesses, which is something every Democrat has to address,\u201d said Rep. Simpson.\n\nRep. Simpson is a cosponsor of this resolution. The resolution passed with a vote of 219-207.", 1, "2026-04-18T05:35:53Z", "2026-04-18T05:37:16Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2026/04/16/idaho-congressional-delegation-state-treasurer-announce-secure-rural-schools-payments/", "Idaho Congressional Delegation, State Treasurer Announce Secure Rural Schools Payments", "2026-04-16", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "Boise, Idaho \u2014 U.S. Representatives Russ Fulcher and Mike Simpson, U.S. Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch, and Idaho State Treasurer Julie Ellsworth announced Idaho counties will receive a total of $24 million in payments for Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 under the Secure Rural Schools (SRS) program. Under Idaho law, 30 percent of SRS funding goes to counties to help fund schools, and the remaining 70 percent is allocated for roads, bridges, and other infrastructure projects.\n\nThe U.S. Forest Service and the U.S. Bureau of Land Management administer the funds. Payment levels are based on a formula including economic activity, timber harvest levels, and other considerations that vary from county to county. Idaho is set to receive the third-highest total payment in the U.S., behind Oregon and California.\n\n\u201cFederal programs like SRS are vital to Idaho\u2019s rural communities, where a high level of land is owned by the federal government. However, this funding has grown increasingly difficult to garner support for in the U.S. Congress, as states without vast federal landholdings often view this program as a subsidy,\u201d said Fulcher. \u201cI\u2019m pleased to see these funds released to our state and will continue to work towards a long-term solution that ensures Idahoans\u2014not the federal government\u2014are the sole determiners of Idaho\u2019s future success and well-being.\u201d\n\n\u201cRural counties across Idaho depend on the Secure Rural Schools program,\u201d said Simpson. \u201cI\u2019m pleased to see these funds allocated to help Idaho schools, roads, bridges, and other infrastructure projects. As a longtime supporter of the SRS program, I have been proud to advocate for critical funding alongside my Idaho colleagues, and we will continue to fight for a long-term solution.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe federal government has a responsibility to counties home to federal lands in Idaho and across the country to help support essential public services like roads, emergency response and schools given these communities\u2019 inability to collect property taxes,\u201d said Crapo. \u201cI continue working to secure a long-term, permanent solution so county governments can plan with certainty and no longer have to rely on year-to-year congressional approval.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe federal government made a promise to rural communities that rely on SRS for schools, road maintenance, and other essential services,\u201d said Risch. \u201cUntil we can bring historic timber revenue back to these areas, I will work with Congress to reauthorize this important program.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs these Secure Rural Schools funds are distributed to Idaho counties, they will help support the schools, roads and bridges that rural communities rely on,\u201d said Ellsworth. \u201cMy office is proud to help ensure these dollars reach counties and further opportunities for our rural communities.\u201d\n\nFor more information about the administration of public funds by the State Treasurer\u2019s Office (STO), visit the STO\u2019s website HERE.\n\nBackground on the SRS program:\n\nCongress first authorized the SRS program in 2000 with the enactment of the SRS and Community Self-Determination Act.\n\nThis legislation specifically assists counties containing tracts of federally owned forest land that are tax-exempt.\n\nThe program provides payments to county governments in areas where those forests are located because counties do not receive tax revenue from federal land; the payments come through timber receipts and other revenue-generating activities within U.S. national forests.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-17T05:47:03Z", "2026-04-17T05:48:33Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401939", "Chairman Simpson Hosts Roundtable on Preserving Birds of Prey Worldwide", "2026-04-16", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson\u2013Chairman of the House Interior and Environment Appropriations Subcommittee\u2013held a briefing on preserving birds of prey worldwide. Following the roundtable, members of Congress and staff were invited to stay for a demonstration featuring several live birds, including a Silvery Cheeked Hornbill, Eurasian Eagle Owl, White-naped Raven, King Vulture, African Fish Eagle, and more.\n\nThe bipartisan event featured Chris Parish, President and CEO of The Peregrine Fund, based in Boise, Idaho.\n\n\u201cIdaho has taken the lead in species recovery, particularly in preserving birds of prey, with many thanks to The Peregrine Fund. It has changed the paradigm of endangered species recovery and has continuously built on its successful track record of effective endangered species management. As a longtime advocate for preserving these beautiful birds, I was thrilled a fellow Idahoan, Chris Parish, could join for this informative and exciting briefing, and for numerous of my colleagues to see the beauty of exotic birds,\u201d said Rep. Simpson.\n\nBelow are excerpts from Rep. Simpson\u2019s prepared remarks:\n\nThe Peregrine Fund is a leader in birds of prey conservation and serves as a global expert on birds and their conservation. Located in Idaho\u2019s capital, The Peregrine Fund does exceptional work to support raptor populations and ensure their ecosystems thrive. Today\u2019s roundtable is an opportunity to discuss the work of The Peregrine Fund.\n\nThe federal investments we propose as appropriators matter to our communities. Some of the most successful and popular conservation programs funded in our Interior bill bring stakeholders together to support voluntary efforts across public and private lands.\n\nPrograms like the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service\u2019s North American Wetlands Conservation Act grants and Joint Ventures program work as public-private partnerships to improve wetlands and working lands alike to conserve bird habitats. We also fund Recovery Challenge grants that have been used to support the recovery and reintroduction of raptors like those we will see today.\n\nBelow are excerpts from Chris Parish\u2019s prepared remarks:\n\nThe Peregrine Fund is dedicated to the often unseen, hard work of bringing listed species back from the brink of extinction, so that, in the language of this important Federal law, the protections of the ESA are no longer necessary.\n\nFor more than five decades, The Peregrine Fund has worked in partnership to conserve birds of prey worldwide.\n\nThe Peregrine Fund supports the Fish and Wildlife and the National Marine Fisheries Services in their efforts to propose regulatory changes that seek to make the delisting of species under the ESA. We believe it is time for ESA changes that are faithful to the statute and efficient.\n\nReforms should reward the conservation contributions of States, interested organizations, and the regulated community \u2013 especially where those commitments have succeeded in ensuring a species is no longer threatened or endangered under the Act. This is how the ESA was envisioned to function rather than what it has become: a never-decreasing repository of species destined to remain permanently listed. To that end, the Peregrine Fund recently filed comments supporting the Services to make delisting a more functional and workable process.", 1, "2026-04-17T05:47:03Z", "2026-04-17T05:48:33Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2026/04/15/fulcher-debates-red-tape-act/", "Fulcher Debates RED Tape Act On House Floor", "2026-04-15", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", null, 0, "2026-04-16T05:48:36Z", "2026-04-16T05:48:36Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2026/04/15/fulcher-debates-the-fences-act/", "Fulcher Debates the FENCES Act On House Floor", "2026-04-15", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", null, 0, "2026-04-16T05:48:36Z", "2026-04-16T05:48:36Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2026/04/15/fulcher-discusses-iran-energy-prices-and-congressional-news-on-newsnation/", "Fulcher Discusses Iran, Energy Prices, and Congressional News on NewsNation", "2026-04-15", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", null, 0, "2026-04-16T05:48:36Z", "2026-04-16T05:48:36Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2026/04/14/fulcher-issues-survey-encourages-idahoans-to-share-priorities/", "Fulcher Issues Survey, Encourages Idahoans to Share Priorities", "2026-04-14", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 29, 2026\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher (Idaho-01) released a survey seeking input on where Idahoans stand on the top issues he hears most about in meetings across the First Congressional District.\n\n\u201cIt is an honor to represent our shared Idaho values in the U.S. Congress,\u201d said Congressman Fulcher. \u201cConstituent perspectives help guide my decisions as I consider legislative solutions and policy on issues from land management responsibilities to housing affordability and healthcare freedom. I encourage every Idahoan to share their priorities and take part in the process to further strengthen our state and communities.\u201d\n\nThe survey is available on Congressman Fulcher\u2019s website at https://fulcher.house.gov/issues-survey-2026/. Personally identifiable information and feedback will remain confidential.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-15T05:46:42Z", "2026-04-15T05:48:27Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2026/04/10/fulcher-signs-letter-to-secretary-burgum-and-secretary-wright-to-transfer-withdrawn-public-lands-at-the-inl-site-to-the-doe/", "Fulcher Signs Letter to Secretaries Burgum and Wright to Transfer Withdrawn Public Lands at INL Site to the DOE", "2026-04-10", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "Apr 10, 2026\nFulcher Signs Letter to Secretaries Burgum and Wright to Transfer Withdrawn Public Lands at INL Site to the DOE", 1, "2026-04-14T05:46:13Z", "2026-04-14T05:48:07Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2026/04/01/fulcher-signs-letter-to-thune-urging-save-america-act-passage/", "Fulcher Signs Letter to Thune Urging SAVE America Act Passage", "2026-04-01", "2026", "2026-04", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "Apr 1, 2026\nFulcher Signs Letter to Thune Urging SAVE America Act Passage", 1, "2026-04-07T05:38:05Z", "2026-04-07T05:39:14Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2026/03/27/fulcher-signs-letter-to-block-federal-funding-for-transgender-experiments-on-animals-in-the-fy27-spending-bill/", "Fulcher Signs Letter to Block Federal Funding for Transgender Experiments on Animals in the FY27 Spending Bill", "2026-03-27", "2026", "2026-03", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "Mar 27, 2026\nFulcher Signs Letter to Block Federal Funding for Transgender Experiments on Animals in the FY27 Spending Bill", 1, "2026-04-07T05:38:05Z", "2026-04-07T05:39:14Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2026/03/19/fulcher-introduces-bill-to-strengthen-geographic-diversity-of-metal-depositories/", "Fulcher Introduces Bill to Strengthen Geographic Diversity of Metal Depositories", "2026-03-19", "2026", "2026-03", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher (Idaho-01) released the following statement after introducing the System Integrity through Licensed Vault Expansion and Resilience (SILVER) Act, H.R. 8007.\n\n\u201cHaving metal depositories located in more than one region in the United States will provide Americans across the country with affordable access to metal exchanges and safeguard assets in the event of a national emergency or extreme weather event. I\u2019m proud to introduce The SILVER Act, which requires the approval of at least two depositories in the Eastern, Central, Mountain, and Pacific time zones, strengthening system integrity and resiliency,\u201d said Congressman Fulcher.\n\nBill Background\n\nCurrently, the only precious metals depositories approved for deliveries on futures contracts are located within the Greater New York City Area. Since all metals storage facilities are located in such a limited and concentrated geographic region, there are substantial limits on market liquidity, increased security risks, and limitations on Americans living in the Western United States.\n\nThe SILVER Act requires a derivatives clearing organization to select at least two depositories in the Eastern, Central, Mountain, and Pacific time zones for approval.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401890", "Rep. Simpson Supports the BOWOW Act", "2026-03-19", "2026", "2026-03", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014 Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson voted in favor of H.R. 4638, the Bill to Outlaw Wounding of Official Working Animals (BOWOW) Act, a bill that ensures any alien who harms a law enforcement working animal is immediately inadmissible and removable from the United States. This legislation is sponsored by Rep. Ken Calvert (R-CA).\n\n\u201cHarming a law enforcement working animal is appalling and evil,\u201d said Rep. Simpson. \u201cI strongly support streamlining the inadmissibility and removability process for aliens who commit such acts. As a dog lover and someone who adamantly supports the working dogs who have served on the front lines, voting in favor of this legislation was one of the easiest decisions of my congressional career.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nThe BOWOW Act would make the assault of an animal used by federal law enforcement a deportable offense under Section 237(a)(2) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. It would also make applicants with such offenses on their record inadmissible to the U.S. under Section 212(a)(2) of the Immigration and Nationality Act.\n\nThe measure was approved with a vote of 228-190.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401889", "Rep. Simpson Supports Bill to Target Illegal Alien Fraudsters", "2026-03-18", "2026", "2026-03", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014 Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson voted in favor of H.R. 1958, the Deporting Fraudsters Act, a bill that would make criminal aliens who defraud United States taxpayers deportable. This legislation is sponsored by Rep. David Taylor (R-OH).\n\n\u201cThose who enter this country with the intent of defrauding the American people should not be allowed to stay,\u201d said Rep. Simpson. \u201cForeign fraudsters who play the system and the American people must be held accountable. Billions of dollars in fraud were uncovered under the noses of failed leaders like Tim Walz and Keith Ellison in Minnesota. What happened in Minnesota should never have happened. This legislation closes loopholes, strengthens federal officers\u2019 ability to remove illegal alien fraudsters, and protects the American taxpayer.\u201d\n\nThe measure was approved with a vote of 231-186.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2026/03/12/fulcher-joins-colleagues-calling-on-trump-to-prioritize-opening-japanese-market-access-to-u-s-potato-industry/", "Fulcher Joins Colleagues Calling on Trump to Prioritize Opening Japanese Market Access to U.S. Potato Industry", "2026-03-12", "2026", "2026-03", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher (R-Idaho) joined U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Ranking Member Ron Wyden (D-Oregon) and House and Senate colleagues in asking President Trump to prioritize gaining market access for U.S. fresh potatoes during Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae\u2019s upcoming visit to the United States.\n\nEnding Japan\u2019s restrictions on U.S. fresh potatoes would result in an estimated $150 million a year in new American exports, benefitting farming communities in states across the country.\n\n\u201cU.S. potato growers produce the best potatoes in the world. International trade and foreign export markets are critical to the U.S. potato industry,\u201d wrote the legislators.\n\n\u201cWith low commodity prices and increased input costs this year, the potato sector, and specialty crops more broadly, are facing a major economic crisis. Japan represents a massive market with significant export opportunities for American potato growers,\u201d continued the legislators. \u201cSecuring this long-delayed market access petition and unlocking the critical Japanese export market would make a meaningful difference for potato growers in our states and across the country.\u201d\n\nIn Idaho, the potato industry accounts for roughly a third of all U.S. production and supports more than 28,000 jobs.\n\nThe letter was joined by Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Angus King (I-Maine), Steve Daines (R-Montana), John Hoeven (R-North Dakota), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Michael Bennet (D-Colorado), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisconsin), Maria Cantwell (D-Washington), Patty Murray (D-Washington), Tim Sheehy (R-Montana), John Hickenlooper (D-Colorado), Elissa Slotkin (D-Michigan), Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska), Gary Peters (D-Michigan), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minnesota), Jeff Merkley (D-Oregon), Ron Johnson (R-Wisconsin), Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina), Tina Smith (D-Minnesota) and Ted Budd (R-North Carolina) and Representatives Mike Simpson (R-Idaho), Jeff Hurd (R-Colorado), Kristen McDonald Rivet (D-Michigan), Suzan DelBene (D-Washington), Bryan Steil (R-Wisconsin), Andrea Salinas (D-Oregon), Julie Fedorchak (R-North Dakota), Dan Newhouse (R-Washington), Jack Bergman (R-Michigan), Shri Thanedar (D-Michigan), Tony Wied (R-Wisconsin), Russ Fulcher (R-Idaho), Jeff Crank (R-Colorado), Glenn Grothman (R-Wisconsin), Marilyn Strickland (D-Washington), Cliff Bentz (R-Oregon), Gabe Evans (R-Colorado), Dan Meuser (R-Pennsylvania), Michael Baumgartner (R-Washington), Tom Tiffany (R-Wisconsin), Adrian Smith (R-Nebraska), Val Hoyle (D-Oregon), Brittany Pettersen (D-Colorado), Robert Bresnahan (R-Pennsylvania), Kim Schrier (D-Washington), Derrick Van Orden (R-Wisconsin), Rick Larsen (D-Washington), Chellie Pingree (D-Maine), Ryan Mackenzie (R-Pennsylvania), Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-Washington), Scott Fitzgerald (R-Wisconsin), Michelle Fischbach (R-Minnesota), Joe Neguse (D-Colorado), John Moolenaar (R-Michigan), Jason Crow (D-Colorado), Suzanne Bonamici (D-Oregon), Lauren Boebert (R-Colorado), Adam Smith (D-Washington), Jared Golden (D-Maine), Hillary Scholten (D-Michigan), John James (R-Michigan), Brad Finstad (R-Minnesota), Janelle Bynum (D-Oregon), Bill Huizenga (R-Michigan) and Diana DeGette (D-Colorado).\n\nRead the full letter HERE.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2026/03/11/letter-to-president-trump-to-prioritize-opening-japanese-market-access-to-u-s-potato-industry/", "Letter to President Trump to Prioritize Opening Japanese Market Access to U.S. Potato Industry", "2026-03-11", "2026", "2026-03", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "Mar 11, 2026\nLetter to President Trump to Prioritize Opening Japanese Market Access to U.S. Potato Industry", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-06T21:05:58Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401884", "Rep. Simpson Cosponsors Bill to Increase Protections for Federal Officers", "2026-03-11", "2026", "2026-03", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson cosponsored H.R. 7846, the Halo Act, a bill that would shield federal officers from those who threaten, interfere with, or harass them while conducting official duties. This legislation is sponsored by Rep. Michael Rulli (R-OH).\n\n\u201cCalling yourself a peaceful protestor does not always make you one, especially if your actions include harassing, intimidating, and even physically assaulting federal officers,\u201d said original cosponsor Rep. Simpson. \u201cIt is common sense to enact criminal penalties for these agitators and establish a buffer zone for the safety of our dedicated law enforcement, particularly during a time when they are facing record-high threats and attacks. Not every federal officer is experienced in crowd control, so when local officers are ordered to stand down, like they were in Minneapolis, while fellow officers urgently need help, tensions escalate and problems arise. I am proud to cosponsor Congressman Rulli's bill to combat these issues, hold agitators accountable, and to shield the brave men and women who serve and protect our communities.\u201d\n\n\u201cOur ICE agents and federal immigration officers put themselves in harm\u2019s way every single day to enforce our laws and protect our communities,\u201d said Rep. Rulli. \u201cThe American people voted for law and order in November 2024. They voted for secure borders and for the men and women who enforce our laws to be supported in the line of duty - not harassed, threatened, or assaulted. The Halo Act makes it crystal clear: if you try to intimidate or obstruct federal officers doing their job, there will be consequences.\u201d\n\nThe Halo Act would establish criminal penalties for individuals who, after being verbally warned, remain within a 25-foot \u201chalo\u201d around a harassed officer. These penalties would apply to anyone interfering with, threatening, or harassing that officer while they are carrying out lawful immigration enforcement duties.\n\nSenator Ashley Moody (R-FL) has introduced companion legislation in the Senate.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2026/03/06/cbdc-letter/", "CBDC Letter", "2026-03-06", "2026", "2026-03", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "Mar 6, 2026\nCongressman Russ Fulcher \u2013 CBDC Letter", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-06T21:05:58Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2026/03/03/fulcher-joins-ktvb-to-discuss-immigration-health-care-farming-and-growing-pains-in-idaho/", "Fulcher Joins KTVB to discuss immigration, health care, farming, and growing pains in Idaho", "2026-03-03", "2026", "2026-03", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", null, 0, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2026/03/02/fulcher-the-2026-tax-season-is-anticipated-to-deliver-historic-savings-for-idahoans/", "Fulcher: The 2026 tax season is anticipated to deliver historic savings for Idahoans", "2026-03-02", "2026", "2026-03", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "By U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher\n\nTax season is upon us\u2014and this year brings more than deadlines, it is anticipated to deliver historic savings for Idahoans.\n\nIt\u2019s my honor to represent the First District of Idaho in the U.S. Congress. Here\u2019s what you and your household need to know for this filing season.\n\nThe Treasury is now projecting that family refunds will increase by an average of $1,000, and the average worker earning between $15,000 and $80,000 is estimated to see a tax cut of 15 percent. This is largely due to recent legislation that the U.S. Congress passed, and President Donald Trump signed into law. H.R. 1, the Working Families Tax Cuts, otherwise known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, was enacted on July 4, 2025. This transformative, once-in-a-generation legislation achieved meaningful provisions for Idahoans. Because some of the tax cuts in this bill are retroactive to 2025, many Americans will see savings this filing season.\n\nFor households, H.R. 1 made the doubled standard deduction permanent and increased it, meaning Idaho families do not have to pay taxes on the first $31,500 earned, a significant saving for hardworking Americans. Launching July 5, 2026, families will have the opportunity to enroll their child in a new program called \u201cTrump Accounts.\u201d This game-changing, pro-family initiative is designed to help the next generation of Americans invest in America\u2014setting them up early for success in their education, finances, and career. Specifically, Trump Accounts offer a tax-advantaged savings account for children, with $1,000\u2014privately funded\u2014given to every newborn delivered between 2025 and 2028. To open an account, file IRS Form 4547 when your child is born or when you file this year. Another policy win for Idaho families achieved in this legislative package is the enhanced Child Tax Credit (CTC), which was increased for eligible families to $2,200 per child. Whether it\u2019s baby formula, diapers, or car insurance when they\u2019re teenagers, there are a lot of expenses involved in raising a family. This tax break helps parents keep more of their hard-earned money.\n\nFor Main Street, there is also excellent news. In fact, the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) states H.R. 1 is one of \u201cthe most pro-small business pieces of legislation in recent history.\u201d To stimulate economic growth and provide tax certainty for businesses, H.R. 1 increased the small business tax deduction (section 199a deduction) to 23 percent and made it permanent. This impactful write-off was claimed by 25.9 million small businesses in 2021 alone, according to the NFIB. Furthermore, the Working Families Tax Cuts supports efforts to reshore good-paying American jobs by allowing 100 percent expensing for new factories and upgrades to preexisting facilities, while also securing indefinite incentives for employers to provide paid family and medical leave for employees\u2014helping recruit and retain a strong workforce.\n\nI\u2019m particularly proud that my bill, the KEEP Act, H.R. 405, to eliminate taxes on overtime pay, was included in this landmark package. As you may know, the KEEP Act was inspired by a constituent conversation at a town hall meeting in Sandpoint, Idaho. Since that chance encounter that prompted this legislation, I am pleased to share that it is now law, which means our dedicated firefighters, police officers, and nurses get to keep more of their hard-earned paycheck. I always say the best ideas come from you, and I continue to receive invaluable counsel as I meet and speak with folks across the Gem State.\n\nTo provide additional relief for Idahoans, this bill eliminated taxes on tips and created a $6,000 deduction for seniors filing individually and a $12,000 deduction for joint filers, significantly reducing the tax burden for citizens age 65 and older.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2026/02/25/fulcher-announces-next-telephone-town-hall/", "Fulcher Announces Next Telephone Town Hall", "2026-02-25", "2026", "2026-02", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher (Idaho-01) announced his next telephone town hall will take place on March 18, 2026, at 6 p.m. MT, 5 p.m. PT.\n\nThe event serves as an opportunity for residents of Idaho\u2019s First Congressional District to ask questions, share input, and receive a congressional update from Congressman Fulcher. Constituents can participate by dialing 833-998-1718 on a telephone at the time of the event.\n\nCongressman Fulcher hosted a series of successful telephone town halls throughout 2025, reaching thousands of Idahoans across the First Congressional District.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401875", "The State of Our Union Is Strong \u2014 Because Economic Relief Is Finally Coming", "2026-02-24", "2026", "2026-02", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "As President Donald Trump prepares to deliver his State of the Union address, one thing is clear - the state of our union is strong because America\u2019s economic comeback is underway.\n\nUnder President Joe Biden\u2019s leadership, hope and optimism were at a low. Record inflation and high prices had become the norm. I spoke with Idaho families living paycheck to paycheck, seniors on fixed incomes, and parents who wondered whether they could afford school supplies. Americans nationwide bore the brunt of President Biden\u2019s failed policies, and economic confidence was diminishing.\n\nThat changed when voters sent President Trump back to the White House to revive the United States economy, restore American prosperity, and bring back the American Dream.\n\nIn the past thirteen months, Republicans in Congress have worked alongside the President to deliver on that promise. We\u2019ve passed legislation to strengthen border security, support our military and veterans, unleash American energy production, and \u2014 most importantly for working families \u2014 passed the largest tax cut in American history through the Working Families Tax Cuts.\n\nWorking-and middle-class Americans were severely impacted by Biden\u2019s out-of-touch economic policies. President Trump and Republicans have worked together to deliver policies that benefit those who felt forgotten under President Biden and to make everyday life more affordable again.\n\nFor senior citizens, we eliminated the unfair double taxation of Social Security benefits. Nearly 90 percent of seniors who receive Social Security will pay zero tax on their benefits. In Idaho alone, roughly 300,000 seniors could benefit from this provision.\n\nThanks to this landmark legislation, hardworking Idahoans will keep more of their hard-earned money and save more on taxes. For instance, Idaho wages are estimated to rise by $3,600 to $6,400 over the next four years, and a typical Idaho family with two children could see their take-home pay increase between $7,200 and $10,200 compared to what it would have been had this bill not been enacted.\n\nMillions of taxpayers report tips and overtime income on their tax returns each year. To support working Americans, we eliminated federal taxes on tips and overtime. In Idaho, about 24 percent of workers regularly earn overtime pay, and nearly 5 percent work in tip-based occupations. This means more money in Idahoans' paychecks this tax season.\n\nWe also secured a $10,000 deduction on auto loan interest for vehicles made in America, providing Americans with financial breathing room and strengthening American manufacturing. Furthermore, we honored our promise to America\u2019s farmers, ranchers, and family business owners by permanently increasing the exemption for the burdensome death tax.\n\nI\u2019m not finished yet. The Working Families Tax Cuts expands opportunity zones, helping protect thousands of Idaho jobs while promoting continued housing development. It also extends the 199A pass-through deduction, benefiting 41,000 Idaho small businesses. This means that around 45% of all firms in the Gem State are eligible for the deduction.\n\nIn addition to permanently increasing the Child Tax Credit, one of the most consequential and exciting provisions in the Working Families Tax Cuts is the creation of the new \u201cTrump Accounts.\u201d These accounts provide a $1,000 investment for American children born after January 1, 2025, through December 31, 2028, helping to set future generations up for financial success.\n\nI have often said that the Working Families Tax Cuts may have been the most important vote I\u2019ve cast since coming to Congress. I say this because the working families, seniors, farmers, and ranchers I spoke to under the Biden administration will see and feel the difference. Policies matter.\n\nIt\u2019s worth noting that every single Democrat voted against this economic relief laid out above \u2014 against eliminating taxes on tips and overtime, against tax relief for seniors, and against increasing take-home pay for working families.\n\nLike many Americans, I am optimistic about the direction our country is heading. While we gather to watch President Trump\u2019s State of the Union address, we can sit back, relax, and feel confident that economic certainty and relief are on the way.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401878", "Rep. Simpson Applauds President Trump\u2019s Leadership in State of the Union Address", "2026-02-24", "2026", "2026-02", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014 Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson released the following statement in response to President Trump\u2019s 2026 State of the Union address.\n\n\u201cAfter four years of Biden\u2019s failed policies and countless lies, President Donald Trump\u2019s leadership has turned our country around,\u201d said Rep. Simpson. \u201cWe now have the most secure border in American history, regulatory reform, and our servicemembers and veterans are being taken care of. Crime is plummeting, inflation is down, and we\u2019re no longer reliant on countries that hate us. Thanks to President Trump and Republicans in Congress, an economic comeback is underway. We enacted the largest tax cut in American history, allowing hardworking Americans to keep more of what they earn in real time. Additionally, we\u2019re creating a new generation of investors with the visionary \u2018Trump Accounts.\u2019 Despite Congressional Democrats trying to obstruct President Trump's policy agenda by voting against economic relief, the financial security of future generations, and engaging in political stunts that jeopardize essential government operations \u2014 this time jeopardizing FEMA, the Coast Guard, the Secret Service, and other critical Homeland Security operations \u2014 our country is heading in the right direction. Americans are safer, their paychecks are bigger, and this shows that policies truly matter.\u201d", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2026/02/23/are-we-at-that-point-fulcher-questions-if-terrorists-can-use-ai-to-carry-out-attacks/", "\u2018Are We At That Point?\u2019: Fulcher Questions If Terrorists Can Use AI To Carry Out Attacks", "2026-02-23", "2026", "2026-02", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", null, 0, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2026/02/23/fulcher-grills-fcc-chair-on-how-agency-would-respond-to-potential-gps-disruption/", "Fulcher Grills FCC Chair On How Agency Would Respond To Potential GPS Disruption", "2026-02-23", "2026", "2026-02", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", null, 0, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2026/02/23/fulcher-joins-idaho-signal-sharia-law-save-act-one-bill-one-topic-and-doge/", "Fulcher Joins Idaho Signal: Sharia Law, SAVE Act, One Bill One Topic, and DOGE", "2026-02-23", "2026", "2026-02", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", null, 0, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2026/02/23/fulcher-speaks-on-idaho-dairies-calling-for-immigration-reform/", "Fulcher speaks on Idaho dairies calling for immigration reform", "2026-02-23", "2026", "2026-02", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", null, 0, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401871", "Rep. Simpson Supports the Law-Enforcement Innovate to De-Escalate Act", "2026-02-12", "2026", "2026-02", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014 Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson voted in favor of H.R. 2189, the Law-Enforcement Innovate to De-Escalate Act, a bill that would give law enforcement the resources they need while ensuring police departments across the country have access to the most effective less-than-lethal equipment.\n\n\u201cBrave law enforcement officers serve and protect our communities every day. There is no reason they shouldn\u2019t be equipped with the most effective tools and technology available to protect themselves and our neighborhoods. As men and women in uniform continue to face dangerous situations, our laws must adapt to advancing technology so that law enforcement can protect the public while keeping themselves safe,\u201d said Rep. Simpson, a cosponsor of this legislation.\n\nBackground:\n\nUnder current law, law enforcement is discouraged from utilizing important new, less-than-lethal technologies, such as long-range tasers, by failing to clearly distinguish these devices from traditional firearms. The Law-Enforcement Innovate to De-Escalate Act not only modernizes the Gun Control Act of 1968 (GCA) by excluding \u2018less-than-lethal projectile devices' from its definition of the term \u2018firearm\u2019, but also creates a new definition for these devices, leading to a lower likelihood of the use of deadly force and increasing community safety.\n\nThe measure was approved with a vote of 233-185.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401870", "Rep. Simpson Votes to Require Photo ID and Proof of Citizenship to Vote in U.S. Elections", "2026-02-11", "2026", "2026-02", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson voted in favor of the SAVE America Act, a bill that would build on the House-passed Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act, by mandating a valid photo ID for all federal elections and requiring proof of citizenship when registering to vote in federal elections.\n\n\u201cAll Americans want safe and secure elections,\u201d said Rep. Simpson, a cosponsor of this legislation. \u201cRequiring photo identification and verifying United States citizenship when registering to vote in federal elections is not a controversial issue. In fact, it is a common-sense approach to strengthening current election laws. The SAVE America Act is the right solution to ensure that only American citizens decide American elections.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\n83% of Americans are in favor of photo ID requirements, including 95% of Republicans and 71% of Democrats.\n\nH.R. 22, the SAVE Act, passed the House on April 10th, 2025.\n\nThe SAVE America Act requires any voter to show a photo ID when they cast a ballot. Absentee and mail-in voters can attach a copy of their ID to their mail-in ballot.\n\nThe SAVE America Act requires states to check for noncitizens and other ineligible registrants on their voter rolls at least once a month.\n\nThe bipartisan measure was approved with a vote of 218-213.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401869", "Rep. Simpson Announces Upcoming Veterans Resource Fair", "2026-02-10", "2026", "2026-02", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014 Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson announced his upcoming Veterans Resource Fair in Twin Falls, Idaho, on Wednesday, February 18th, 2026. More information on the event location and time is listed below.\n\n\u201cEnsuring our local heroes are taken care of is one of my top priorities in Congress,\u201d said Rep. Simpson. \u201cIt is always Team Simpson\u2019s pleasure to welcome and ensure our great veterans are cared for. I encourage any veteran who resides in Idaho\u2019s Second District and is struggling with a federal agency to swing by our upcoming Veterans Resources Fair and receive the help they so greatly deserve.\u201d\n\nVeterans Resource Fair: February 18th, 2026\n\nCollege of Southern Idaho\n\n315 Falls Ave, Twin Falls, ID\n\n2nd floor of the Taylor Building \u2013 ADA accessible\n\n9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.\n\nFor more information on the upcoming Veterans resource fair, please call Congressman Simpson\u2019s Twin Falls office at (208) 734-7219.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2026/02/04/fulcher-speaks-at-first-sharia-free-america-press-conference/", "Fulcher Speaks at First Sharia Free America Press Conference", "2026-02-04", "2026", "2026-02", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", null, 0, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z"], ["https://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=401866", "Rep. Simpson Secures Funding for Idaho Falls Regional Airport Terminal Expansion", "2026-02-04", "2026", "2026-02", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Michael K. Simpson", "S001148", "simpson.house.gov", "simpson", "https://simpson.house.gov/news", "scraper", "WASHINGTON\u2014Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson highlighted the inclusion of $12,000,000 in funding for the Idaho Falls Regional Airport Terminal Expansion Project in Idaho Falls, Idaho, at his request through Community Project Funding (CPF) in H.R.7148 - the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026.\n\n\u201cAs Idaho Falls continues to grow, it is essential that the airport grows with it,\u201d said Rep. Simpson. \u201cExpanding the Idaho Falls Regional Airport will better serve the Idaho Falls community, support local jobs, and enhance the city's status as a top destination for travelers and economic opportunities. I have been a steadfast supporter of our local airports, and I am pleased that this funding will facilitate these necessary improvements.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis $12 million in Community Project Funding is a vital investment in the future of the Idaho Falls Regional Airport,\u201d said Idaho Falls Mayor Lisa Burtenshaw. \u201cAs our city grows, this funding ensures the airport can meet increasing demand, improve efficiency, and provide a better experience for travelers. We are grateful for Representative Simpson\u2019s support in helping IDA remain the regional airport of choice for Eastern Idaho and a gateway for economic growth in our community.\u201d\n\nThis funding would be used for Phase 1 of IDA\u2019s terminal expansion. Phase I of this project, baggage expansion, will provide necessary space for outbound baggage operations, as well as additional space for future operations. It will improve safety by providing adequate space to load baggage carts and improve the efficiency of operations with a new conveyor system. This expansion also provides additional ticket queueing and counter space to accommodate additional air service and will provide a second level space for future passenger hold areas. This phase will also provide alterations to existing space to allow for the future expansion of the security screening checkpoint which is the next constrained space in the terminal building.\n\nDespite 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.\n\nAs Idaho\u2019s only appropriator, Rep. Simpson has a unique opportunity to fight for Idaho\u2019s priorities and ensure Idahoans\u2019 hard-earned tax dollars return to Idaho.\n\nThe Idaho Falls Regional Airport Terminal Expansion Project is a part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026. President Trump has signed this measure into law.", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"], ["https://fulcher.house.gov/2026/02/03/fulcher-introduces-bill-to-upgrade-national-park-emergency-system/", "Fulcher Introduces Bill to Upgrade National Park Emergency System", "2026-02-03", "2026", "2026-02", "Republican", "House", "ID", "Russ Fulcher", "F000469", "fulcher.house.gov", "fulcher", "https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher (Idaho-01) introduced the Making National Parks Safer Act, H.R. 7031. Currently, the National Park Service (NPS) operates 41 911 call centers across the nation. A 2024 Government Accountability Office (GAO) report showed that the NPS had no nationwide plan to upgrade the call centers to Next Generation 911 (NG911) equipment, an Internet Protocol (IP)-based system that is significantly more secure than current operating standards.\n\n\u201cWhen Americans trek out to explore our country\u2019s great outdoors, they should be able to do so safely and with the knowledge that help is close at hand if an emergency arises,\u201d said Congressman Fulcher.\n\n\u201cThe Making National Parks Safer Act delivers critical upgrades to the National Park Service\u2019s call centers, fitting them with Next Generation 911 technology. This system allows dispatchers to receive not only voice calls, but also text messages, photos, and videos\u2014giving responders greater situational awareness before engaging,\u201d Fulcher added. \u201cWhether a visitor has an encounter with a wild animal or obtains an injury on a remote hike, this bill helps ensure first responders have the tools to act swiftly and effectively.\u201d\n\nCongressman Fulcher\u2019s legislation would direct the Secretary of the Interior to access and implement NG911 systems.\n\n###", 1, "2026-04-04T05:28:40Z", "2026-04-04T05:30:10Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 114, "expanded_columns": [], "expandable_columns": [], "columns": ["url", "title", "date", "year", "month", "party", "chamber", "state", "member_name", "bioguide_id", "domain", "scraper", "source", "date_source", "text", "has_text", "collected_at", "updated_at"], "primary_keys": ["url"], "units": {}, "query": {"sql": "select url, title, date, year, month, party, chamber, state, member_name, bioguide_id, domain, scraper, source, date_source, text, has_text, collected_at, updated_at from releases where \"chamber\" = :p0 and \"state\" = :p1 and \"year\" = :p2 order by date desc limit 101", "params": {"p0": "House", "p1": "ID", "p2": "2026"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=ID&year=2026", "results": [{"value": "Republican", "label": "Republican", "count": 114, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=ID&year=2026&party=Republican", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=ID&year=2026", "results": [{"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 114, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=ID&year=2026", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=ID&year=2026", "results": [{"value": "ID", "label": "ID", "count": 114, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=House&year=2026", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=ID&year=2026", "results": [{"value": "2026", "label": "2026", "count": 114, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=ID", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": "2026-02-03,https~3A~2F~2Ffulcher~2Ehouse~2Egov~2F2026~2F02~2F03~2Ffulcher-introduces-bill-to-upgrade-national-park-emergency-system~2F", "next_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=House&state=ID&year=2026&_next=2026-02-03%2Chttps~3A~2F~2Ffulcher~2Ehouse~2Egov~2F2026~2F02~2F03~2Ffulcher-introduces-bill-to-upgrade-national-park-emergency-system~2F&_sort_desc=date", "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 81.03786408901215, "source": "dwillis/congress-press", "source_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press", "license": "MIT", "license_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press/blob/main/LICENSE"}