url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-statement-on-passing-of-jeffrey-holland,Crapo Statement on Passing of Jeffrey Holland,2025-12-27,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) issued the following statement on the passing of Jeffrey R. Holland, President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints: “I join other members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in mourning the loss of President Jeffrey R. Holland. Known for his empathetic love and care for others, President Holland embodied a Christ-like spirit of generosity. His more than 30 years of service in the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles spread the gospel far and wide, inviting others to know the unrelenting love of Christ here on earth.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-backs-bill-to-bolster-aviation-safety,Crapo Backs Bill to Bolster Aviation Safety,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.—U.S. Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo joined Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kansas), Chris Van Hollen (D-Maryland), John Boozman (R-Arkansas) and Michael Bennet (D-Colorado) in support of the Spending Aviation Fees for Equipment, Guaranteeing Upgraded and Advanced Risk Detection and Safety (SAFEGUARDS) Act. The bill Senator Crapo co-sponsored would make certain the revenue collected through the 9/11 Passenger Security Fee (PSF) is invested in bolstering aviation and airport security. “Passenger security fees should be used as intended—to fund aviation security activities,” said Crapo. “Years of diverting these funds have hampered TSA’s ability to implement modernized screening technologies, particularly at checkpoints with high passenger volumes.” Airline passengers currently pay a fee of $5.60 per each one-way ticket, intended to fund aviation security. Since 2014, more than $13 billion of the collected fees have been diverted to non-security uses, and this legislation would end that diversion and invest these fees back into airport security. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screens millions of passengers and their luggage daily, providing services at 2,400 security lanes at the nation's 420 airports. The SAFEGUARDS Act would: Allocate $500 million in PSF revenue annually for checked bag explosive detection systems (EDS); and Set aside $250 million annually for checkpoint technology improvements, including at exit lanes. TSA has screening checkpoints at all six of Idaho’s major commercial airports, including Boise Airport (BOI), Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA), Friedman Memorial Airport (SUN), Pocatello Regional Airport (PIH), Lewiston-Nez Perce County Airport (LWS) and Magic Valley Regional Airport (TWF).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-risch-colleagues-call-on-president-to-maintain-marijuana-as-schedule-i-drug,"Crapo, Risch, Colleagues Call on President to Maintain Marijuana as Schedule I Drug",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch (both R-Idaho) joined 20 of their Republican colleagues in sending a letter to President Donald Trump asking that marijuana remain a Schedule I drug. President Trump is expected to sign an executive order rescheduling marijuana to a Schedule III drug. “Rescheduling marijuana to a Schedule III drug will undermine your strong efforts to Make America Great Again and to usher in America’s next economic Golden Age. The only winners from rescheduling will be bad actors such as Communist China, while Americans will be left paying the bill,” wrote the Senators. Crapo and Risch are joined by U.S. Senators Ted Budd (R-North Carolina), Jim Banks (R-Indiana), John Barrasso (R-Wyoming), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tennessee), Shelley Moore Capito (R-West Virginia), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas), Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina), Bill Hagerty (R-Tennessee), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Mississippi), Ron Johnson (R-Wisconsin), James Lankford (R-Oklahoma), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming), Roger Marshall (R-Kansas), Mitch McConnell (R-Kentucky), Dave McCormick (R-Pennsylvania), Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska), Rick Scott (R-Florida) and Tommy Tuberville (R-Alabama). Marijuana is currently listed as a Schedule I drug or substance with a high potential for abuse and lacks Federal Drug Administration approval. In the letter, Senators outlined concerns with reclassifying marijuana to Schedule III, reserved for substances with moderate to low risk for physical and psychological dependence, including: The significant harm marijuana has on users, especially young people and pregnant or nursing women; Marijuana use causes impaired judgement, creating public safety risks on the roads and in workplaces; and The massive tax break marijuana companies will receive and use to market marijuana to kids.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/idaho-delegation-celebrates-srs-reauthorization-for-rural-idaho-counties,Idaho Delegation Celebrates SRS Reauthorization for Rural Idaho Counties,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--President Donald Trump today signed S. 356, the Secure Rural Schools (SRS) Reauthorization Act, which will reauthorize the SRS program through Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 and provide lapsed payments for FYs 2024 and 2025. The Idaho Congressional Delegation celebrated the President’s signature as a win for Idaho’s rural counties stewarding untaxed federal lands. U.S. Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch led introduction of the bill in the U.S. Senate and U.S. Representatives Mike Simpson and Russ Fulcher co-sponsored the legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives. Thirty-four of Idaho’s 44 counties received SRS payments in 2023. Under Idaho law, 30 percent of SRS funding goes to counties to help with schools and the remaining 70 percent goes to roads, bridges and other infrastructure projects. In FY 2023, $22.8 million was distributed to Idaho counties. “The SRS program is rooted in century-old federal land management policy. Without it, many counties in Idaho and across the country would fall short of the financial means to provide for integral community functions for local residents and visitors alike,” said Crapo. “I thank President Trump for signing this important bill into law, and I remain committed to working toward a long-term solution that provides more certainty to rural communities.” “The federal government made a promise to rural communities, and today I’m proud to see President Trump follow through and reauthorize SRS,” said Senator Risch. “While we work to bring back historic timber revenue, SRS funding remains vital for Idaho counties to support schools, road maintenance, and other essential services.” “Nearly two-thirds of Idaho is public land, which means a vast majority of rural counties throughout the state depend on the Secure Rural Schools Program,” said Representative Simpson. “Renewing this critical program will ensure a vital source of funding for Idaho counties and help pay for essential rural community services. I look forward to seeing this lifeline benefit local communities throughout Idaho for schools and infrastructure projects. As a longtime supporter of the SRS program, I am thrilled to see President Trump sign this into law."" “Having a majority of Idaho’s lands under federal government control forces our rural counties to rely on federal programs—such as Secure Rural Schools (SRS)—to support infrastructure projects, schools, and critical community services,” said Representative Fulcher. “I am grateful to President Trump for signing this important measure into law, and I am appreciative of Speaker Mike Johnson and House Leadership for their collaborative efforts to get it on the House floor, and passed. However, a long-term solution is necessary, and I will continue to advocate for one in Congress that ensures Idahoans dictate Idaho affairs—not the federal government.” “The Idaho Association of Counties (IAC) is deeply grateful for Senator Crapo’s leadership in securing renewed funding for the Secure Rural Schools Act,” said Idaho Association of Counties Executive Director Seth Grigg. “His steadfast determination and advocacy, along with the continued support of Senator Risch and Representatives Simpson and Fulcher, make a real difference for the safety of Idahoans. This funding is essential for timber counties across Idaho to maintain critical road infrastructure, invest in public safety, and support the basic services Idaho residents rely on every day.” “This funding is essential to counties that have historically received resources from revenue-generating activities on federal lands within their boundaries,” said Julia Lauch, Idaho State Forester. “The impact is greatest in rural counties dominated by federal land. State Forestry Agencies have strong partnerships with counties to further active management on neighboring lands and protect communities from wildfire risk; Secure Rural Schools’ funds contribute to this work. This is shared stewardship in action, which in Idaho we have coined “no boundaries forestry”. The advocacy of Idaho County, among many others across Idaho and our country, on behalf of the reauthorization was instrumental in reaching enactment of the legislation. Idaho County receives the largest portion of SRS funding in the state. Local community leaders helped make the case for the need for its reauthorization given the impacts of its absence. “Senator Crapo’s leadership has been indispensable in restoring Secure Rural Schools funding,” said Idaho County Commissioner Skip Brandt. ""His efforts give rural timber counties in Idaho the stability we need to keep school bus routes safe and to continue basic road and public safety services. This is a big win for Idaho County and other rural counties throughout Idaho that rely heavily on these dollars. We appreciate Senator Crapo’s willingness to lead the charge and get it done when other people thought it was too late.” Members of the Idaho Congressional Delegation have been long-term advocates of the SRS program, which has been extended and amended multiple times since its inception in 2000. Passage of the bill comes on the heels of a bipartisan, bicameral letter signed by 89 lawmakers, including Crapo, Risch and Fulcher. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/idaho-oregon-senators-celebrate-srs-reauthorization-for-rural-idaho-and-oregon-counties,"Idaho, Oregon Senators Celebrate SRS Reauthorization for Rural Idaho and Oregon Counties",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--President Donald Trump today signed S. 356, the Secure Rural Schools (SRS) Reauthorization Act, which will reauthorize the SRS program through Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 and provide lapsed payments for any missed payments for FYs 2024 and 2025. U.S. Senators from Idaho and Oregon celebrated the President’s signature as a win for Idaho’s and Oregon’s rural counties stewarding untaxed federal lands. U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Ron Wyden (D-Oregon), Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and Jeff Merkley (D-Oregon) led introduction of the bill in the U.S. Senate. Thirty-four of Idaho’s 44 counties received SRS payments in 2023. Under Idaho law, 30 percent of SRS funding goes to counties to help with schools and the remaining 70 percent goes to roads, bridges and other infrastructure projects. In FY 2023, $22.8 million was distributed to Idaho counties. “The SRS program is rooted in century-old federal land management policy. Without it, many counties in Idaho and across the country would fall short of the financial means to provide for integral community functions for local residents and visitors alike,” said Senator Crapo. “I thank President Trump for signing this important bill into law, and I remain committed to working toward a long-term solution that provides more certainty to rural communities.” “The federal government made a promise to rural communities, and today I’m proud to see President Trump follow through and reauthorize SRS,” said Senator Risch. “While we work to bring back historic timber revenue, SRS funding remains vital for Idaho counties to support schools, road maintenance, and other essential services.” “The Secure Rural Schools program has been a lifeline for rural communities across Oregon and nationwide since I originally authored the program back in 2000,” said Senator Wyden. “I’m grateful Senator Crapo and I were able to get our legislation over the finish line to restore funding for communities that need it the most. This lapse in funding is exactly why we need a permanent solution to get rural communities off the financial rollercoaster and ensure they have the support they need to not just survive, but thrive.” “With our bipartisan bill now law, the federal government has finally taken action to restore funding that is crucial to keeping schools open, maintaining roads, restoring watersheds, and ensuring there are police officers and firefighters to keep rural communities safe,” said Senator Merkley. “Extending the SRS program ensures Oregon communities and local governments can maintain access to these important lifelines and resources.” “The Idaho Association of Counties (IAC) is deeply grateful for Senator Crapo’s leadership in securing renewed funding for the Secure Rural Schools Act,” said Idaho Association of Counties Executive Director Seth Grigg. “His steadfast determination and advocacy, along with the continued support of Senator Risch and Representatives Simpson and Fulcher, make a real difference for the safety of Idahoans. This funding is essential for timber counties across Idaho to maintain critical road infrastructure, invest in public safety, and support the basic services Idaho residents rely on every day.” ""We are grateful to the Oregon federal delegation for their unremitting support of this program — a lifeline for our counties and schools,"" said Association of Oregon Counties Executive Director Gina Nikkel. ""Rural counties rely on SRS payments to provide numerous critical services for their communities, such as rural county roads, education, conservation projects, search and rescue missions, and wildfire prevention programs. We look forward to continuing to work with our federal partners for a permanent funding source for rural counties."" “This funding is essential to counties that have historically received resources from revenue-generating activities on federal lands within their boundaries,” said Julia Lauch, Idaho State Forester. “The impact is greatest in rural counties dominated by federal land. State Forestry Agencies have strong partnerships with counties to further active management on neighboring lands and protect communities from wildfire risk; Secure Rural Schools’ funds contribute to this work. This is shared stewardship in action, which in Idaho we have coined “no boundaries forestry”. The advocacy of Idaho County, among many others across Idaho and our country, on behalf of the reauthorization was instrumental in reaching enactment of the legislation. Idaho County receives the largest portion of SRS funding in the state. Local community leaders helped make the case for the need for its reauthorization given the impacts of its absence. “Senator Crapo’s leadership has been indispensable in restoring Secure Rural Schools funding,” said Idaho County Commissioner Skip Brandt. ""His efforts give rural timber counties in Idaho the stability we need to keep school bus routes safe and to continue basic road and public safety services. This is a big win for Idaho County and other rural counties throughout Idaho that rely heavily on these dollars. We appreciate Senator Crapo’s willingness to lead the charge and get it done when other people thought it was too late.” Crapo, Wyden, Risch and Merkley have been long-term advocates of the SRS program, which has been extended and amended multiple times since its inception in 2000. Wyden originally authored the program in 2000. Passage of the bill comes on the heels of a bipartisan, bicameral letter led by Crapo and signed by 88 additional lawmakers, including Wyden, Risch and Merkley. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/12/17/2025/crapo-risch-support-americas-armed-forces,"Crapo, Risch Support America’s Armed Forces",2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators for Idaho Mike Crapo and Jim Risch today voted in favor of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), fulfilling Congress’s constitutional duty to “provide for the common defense.” The U.S. Senate passed the bill by a vote of 77-20, and the U.S. House of Representatives previously passed it by a vote of 312-112. It now heads to President Trump’s desk for signature. “The FY 2026 NDAA includes a number of wins for Idaho and America,” said Crapo. “It provides our servicemembers a well-deserved pay raise and strengthens operational readiness to defend against foreign adversaries at home and abroad. The bill also secures funding for important projects at the Idaho National Laboratory which will have lasting, positive impacts on the local community, the economy and our national security.” “The NDAA prioritizes the recruitment of top candidates to defend our nation, keep the border secure, and strengthen our national security,” said Risch. “I am proud to support this legislation, secure critical provisions for Idaho, and give our servicemembers a well-deserved pay raise.” Senators Crapo and Risch secured several critical provisions for the state of Idaho in the NDAA that will: Enhance U.S. nuclear energy leadership globally and combat China and Russia’s growing influence on international nuclear energy development; Crack down on the import of deadly fentanyl and its precursors flowing from China to Mexico and across our borders; Support the Idaho National Laboratory for tristructural isotropic (TRISO) fuel development; and Strengthen the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States’ (CFIUS) ability to review foreign land purchases near sensitive military, intelligence and national laboratory sites. The FY 2026 NDAA also: Provides a 3.8 percent pay raise for servicemembers; Supports the development of the Golden Dome missile defense system; Authorizes investments to boost our naval fleet; Removes diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) provisions; Prohibits men from playing in women’s sports at military service academies; Repeals or amends burdensome and outdated provisions to streamline Pentagon innovation; Restores munitions and readiness for all military services; and Expands and improves military recruitment. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-king-introduce-bill-to-streamline-state-veterans-home-inspections,"Crapo, King Introduce Bill to Streamline State Veterans Home Inspections",2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Angus King (I-Maine) today introduced the State Veterans Home Inspection Simplification Act, which would streamline redundant inspection requirements for State Veterans Homes (SVHs) nationwide. Under current law, all SVHs must undergo an annual inspection survey by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), which provides a comprehensive assessment of safety protocols, facility condition, clinical care practices and other standards required for certification. In addition, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) conduct a nearly identical annual inspection of SVHs serving Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries—resulting in a roughly 75 percent overlap in the number of SVHs that face an audit from both agencies. The bill would allow SVHs to forgo the CMS survey if they have met all the requirements of the annual VA survey. “Overlapping survey requirements take time and resources away from the core mission of State Veterans Homes—providing care to our nation’s heroes,” said Crapo. “We must remove unnecessary administrative burdens and allow for a more streamlined certification process, all without compromising the quality of care veterans deserve.” “Maine Veterans Home and state veterans homes across the country are a lifeline to the brave men and women who served,” said Senator King. “However, redundant inspections hamper their ability to deliver critical services and support. The State Veterans Home Inspection Simplification Act is commonsense legislation that will ensure we continue to provide the highest quality of care to our veterans while streamlining administrative processes. Keeping our promise to veterans everywhere — from Maine to Idaho — should never be partisan and I’m grateful to partner with Senator Crapo on this issue.” ""State Veterans Homes represent a sacred trust we hold to care for those who served our nation. The VA survey process is both rigorous and comprehensive, covering clinical care, financial stewardship, and life safety across all care levels. Duplicative CMS surveys add no meaningful oversight benefit and only increase costs and the burden on facilities and the Veterans we serve. I want to thank Senator Crapo for his leadership in advancing this important bipartisan legislation that restores commonsense oversight while upholding the highest standards of care."" – Mark Tschampl, Director of the Idaho Division of Veterans Services ""The National Association of State Veterans Homes (NASVH) strongly supports the State Veterans Home Inspection Simplification Act, a commonsense bill that would prevent unnecessary overregulation of veterans nursing homes. State Veterans Homes operate under the oversight of VA, which includes an annual inspection requiring them to meet about 200 health, safety, and quality standards. However, about 75% of the State Veterans Homes are also required to receive annual inspections by CMS covering substantially the same standards, leading to unnecessary costs and bureaucratic obstacles. This legislation is a vital step toward reducing redundancy in oversight while preserving the quality and accountability veterans deserve. NASVH extends our heartfelt thanks to Senator Crapo and Senator King for introducing this legislation and their unwavering commitment to our nation's veterans."" – Diane Lynch, NASVH President The CMS survey has been found to be 90 percent identical to the clinical life and safety sections of the VA inspection survey. The VA survey is considered more comprehensive as it accounts for domiciliary care and adult day health care, whereas the CMS survey does not. Key Provisions of the State Veterans Home Inspection Simplification Act: Eliminate duplication: Reduce unnecessary, overlapping annual survey requirements by the VA and CMS. Resource Efficiency: Free up SVH staff time and resources to focus more on veteran well-being and care. Cost Savings: Cut redundant inspection expenses for taxpayers. Maintain Quality: Enable CMS to rely on robust, comprehensive VA inspection report findings. Streamline Reporting: Use VA inspection reports for the CMS Compare website to support informed consumer decision-making. Original co-sponsors of the bill include Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tennessee), Jim Justice (R-West Virginia) and Tim Sheehy (R-Montana). As part of the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies appropriations legislation enacted in November, Crapo also secured a provision requiring the U.S. Government Accountability Office to study and report to Congress on the ongoing backlogs halting SVH construction and renovation projects. Background on State Veterans Homes SVHs are owned, operated, managed and financed by individual states through their divisions or departments of veterans’ affairs. There are currently 172 VA-recognized SVHs across the country, including 166 skilled nursing programs, 48 domiciliary care programs and three adult health care programs. Idaho is home to four VA-recognized SVHs, located in Boise, Lewiston, Pocatello and Post Falls. All are operated by the Idaho Division of Veterans Services. View the full text of the bill HERE. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://fulcher.house.gov/2025/12/15/passed-fulcher-dingell-bipartisan-bill-honoring-service-of-18-million-women-who-worked-on-home-front-during-wwii/,"PASSED: Fulcher, Dingell Bipartisan Bill Honoring Service of 18 Million Women Who Worked on Home Front During WWII",2025-12-15,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,ID,Russ Fulcher,F000469,fulcher.house.gov,fulcher,https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — The United States House of Representatives unanimously passed U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher’s (R-ID) and Congresswoman Debbie Dingell’s (D-MI) bipartisan bill to authorize the National Mall as the location for a memorial honoring the women who worked on the home front during World War II. The World War II Women’s Memorial Location Act is the next legislative step needed after Congress passed bipartisan legislation in 2022 authorizing the establishment of a memorial with private funds. Under current law, an act of Congress is required to place a commemorative work on the National Mall. This bill advances a decade-long effort to properly honor the more than 18 million trailblazing women—known as Rosie the Riveters—who worked as riveters, pilots, engineers, electricians, mechanics, code breakers, and more. Congressman Fulcher said, “Rosie the Riveters were vital to the war effort during WWII. In Idaho, heroic civilian women worked and volunteered at the Farragut Naval Training Station in North Idaho. Built shortly after the attack on Pearl Harbor, it became the second-largest naval training base in the country. I’m proud to have co-led this bipartisan, bicameral legislation to honor their service, sacrifice, and patriotism by securing the location for a memorial in our nation’s capital—proudly supported entirely through private funds.” “Our Rosies answered the call when our nation needed them most, redefining the role of the American woman and opening the door wider for generations to come,” Congresswoman Dingell added. “This bill will take us one step closer to ensuring our Rosies receive the recognition they deserve, and I am honored to lead legislation to honor their service and commitment to America and their unwavering ‘can do’ spirit. We will always be thankful for their strength, bravery, and lasting impact on our nation. I’m proud to pass this bill through the House, and look forward to it being signed into law, so we can begin work on this monument to complete the story of World War II in our nation’s front yard.” ###",1,2026-04-17T05:47:03Z,2026-04-17T05:48:33Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-a-missed-opportunity-for-real-health-care-reform,Crapo: A Missed Opportunity for Real Health Care Reform,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.—Today, U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) voted to give American families more control over their own health care, while Democrats charted a course that will increase costs for millions of Americans and make no real reforms to a broken health care system. Crapo’s legislation, the Health Care Freedom for Patients Act, introduced alongside U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions committee Chairman Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-Louisiana), would create pre-funded, patient-driven health savings accounts (HSAs). The Crapo-Cassidy plan would help cover out-of-pocket costs, reduce benchmark premiums by 11 percent and give families more control over their health care. This bill is an alternative to Democrats’ temporary COVID bonuses, which send billions of tax dollars to insurance companies without lowering premiums. Democrats blocked the Crapo-Cassidy measure, which required 60 votes to advance, by a vote of 51-48. “Today was a missed opportunity to lay the groundwork for real health care reforms,” Crapo said. “Republicans put forward a fiscally responsible proposal to reduce premiums, save taxpayers’ money and give Americans control over their health care. Meanwhile, Democrats insisted on extending the same policies that have led to rampant fraud and higher premiums. We cannot continue to throw good money after bad policy and paper over the cracks in our health care system. It is time to give Americans more control over their health care choices and make quality health care more affordable.” Before the vote, Crapo spoke on the U.S. Senate Floor in support of the Republican bill. On the Democrats’ proposal: “They call their plan a ‘clean’ extension. A three-year extension of this program with no reforms, costing hardworking families $83 billion, with tens of billions going to big insurance companies and fraudsters is anything but ‘clean.’ “The Government Accountability Office recently uncovered how embarrassingly easy it is to game the Obamacare subsidy system, with the Wall Street Journal calling it a ‘Mecca for Fraud.’ This year, there were over six million improper enrollments, costing $27 billion. “Even the Washington Post recognized that ‘Obamacare subsidies make it too easy to scam the system.’” On the Republican health care plan: “Instead of the Minority Leader’s $83 billion dollar extension, which would do nothing to reduce fraud and would keep driving premiums higher, Senator Cassidy and I have offered a fiscally responsible proposal that will reduce premiums, save taxpayers’ money and give Americans control over their health care. “Our bill provides pre-funded, patient-driven health savings accounts for Americans enrolled in qualified Obamacare bronze and catastrophic plans. Importantly, low-income Americans will still receive subsidies for those plans through the permanent portion of the premium tax credits. “Americans who choose this option will have both insurance coverage and help paying for their remaining out-of-pocket costs, all without giving insurers a reason to enroll them in plans without their knowledge, as has occurred for years. “Our bill also fixes an error in the original design of Obamacare by funding the cost-sharing reductions it mandated, reducing benchmark premiums by 11 percent.” ______________________ Full remarks as prepared for delivery: Mr. President, we have spent a lot of time this week talking about the problems of our health care system. Premiums are rising, hospitals are struggling and out-of-pocket costs are out of control. These problems are not new. They were used to justify creating Obamacare, and Obamacare has progressively made them worse. Americans did not keep their doctors, they did not keep their insurance plans and their premiums did not go down. In fact, Obamacare premiums have risen at roughly double the rate of employer-provided plans. Our Democrat colleagues have had only one response to these skyrocketing premiums: more spending. Without ever winning a single Republican vote, they created the Obamacare premium tax credits, expanded them to Americans of all income levels and extended that expansion. Those credits did not reduce costs. All they did was shift the cost to taxpayers and help insurers to hike premiums higher and higher. Democrats know that Obamacare has failed. They themselves have said so repeatedly. But with a deadline quickly approaching—again, a deadline set by my Democrat colleagues—they say we have no choice but to extend this policy again. This is a policy even they could not make permanent when they controlled all three branches of government. Even so, their only offer is more spending. They call their plan a ‘clean’ extension. A three-year extension of this program with no reforms, costing hardworking families $83 billion, with tens of billions going to big insurance companies and fraudsters is anything but ‘clean.’ The Government Accountability Office recently uncovered how embarrassingly easy it is to game the Obamacare subsidy system, with the Wall Street Journal calling it a “Mecca for Fraud.” This year, there were over six million improper enrollments, costing $27 billion. Even the Washington Post recognized that “Obamacare subsidies make it too easy to scam the system.” Fortunately, we have another option. Instead of the Minority Leader’s $83 billion dollar extension, which would do nothing to reduce fraud and would keep driving premiums higher, Senator Cassidy and I have offered a fiscally responsible proposal that will reduce premiums, save taxpayers’ money and give Americans control over their health care. Our bill provides pre-funded, patient-driven health savings accounts (HSAs) for Americans enrolled in qualified Obamacare bronze and catastrophic plans. Importantly, low-income Americans will still receive subsidies for those plans through the permanent portion of the premium tax credits. Americans who choose this option will have both insurance coverage and help paying for their remaining out-of-pocket costs, all without giving insurers a reason to enroll them in plans without their knowledge, as has occurred for years. Our bill also fixes an error in the original design of Obamacare by funding the cost-sharing reductions it mandated, reducing benchmark premiums by 11 percent. The Minority Leader’s plan is not going to pass. But, if just a few of my Democrat colleagues join us in voting for our bill, we can put this crisis behind us and lay the groundwork for real reforms. For instance, Senator Wyden and I remain intent on getting our bipartisan pharmacy benefit manager reform to the president’s desk. The choice before us is clear: We can continue with business as usual and extend the same policy that has brought our health care system to the point where every member of this body admits that it is broken, or - We can try something different. We can change the incentives Obamacare gives insurers to drive premiums higher and put our confidence in Americans to make the best decisions about their own health care. If we fall off the Democrat-created subsidy cliff, it will not be because we had no other choice. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-americans-should-control-their-own-health-care,Crapo: Americans Should Control Their Own Health Care,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.—Today on the Senate Floor, U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) continued to make the case for the Health Care Freedom for Patients Act, legislation to lower health care costs and give money directly to families to control their own care. He also explained why the Democratic plan of extending the Biden COVID bonuses is unsustainable and counterproductive and discussed the massive breadth of fraud in the subsidy program. On Democrats’ Obamacare crisis: “If there is a crisis coming, it is entirely of the Democrats’ making. My colleagues on the other side of the aisle created the premium tax credits as part of the Obamacare system, because they did not trust their own policy to make health insurance affordable without shifting the burden of paying for it from enrollees to taxpayers. “When the original premium tax credits failed to bring down premiums, they enhanced the tax credits. And then when that did not work, they extended the enhancements. They did all this without a single Republican vote. “They also chose the current expiration date they now say must be changed. They created the cliff they now oppose. Our colleagues on the other side of the aisle have had years to offer serious suggestions on how to reform the Obamacare subsidies, yet every time a deadline approaches, we are told there is no workable option except to extend them again. “It seems these subsidies were never truly meant to be temporary. But they should be. We do not have to go along with their last-minute extension, this time at the cost of $83 billion.” On fraud in the Biden COVID Bonuses: “Of course, Mr. President, unscrupulous insurance brokers have been signing people up for Obamacare plans without their knowledge or consent for profit. Alarmingly, insurers make the most money through these fraudulent credits, because they retain the money even if no payments are made on behalf of patients. “As just one example, more people are signed up for $0 premium Obamacare plans in Miami-Dade than there are low-income people living there. One woman in Miami said she had been paid five times by brokers to enroll in Obamacare plans. “These are not isolated incidents. This year, 6.4 million Americans were improperly enrolled in enhanced Obamacare subsidies at a cost of $27 billion. The true cost of fraud was likely even higher, because the GAO also found in its report that tens of billions of dollars of subsidies in 2023 had not been reconciled to enrollees’ incomes, meaning they could have misrepresented their incomes to qualify for bigger subsidies.” On the Health Care Freedom for Patients Act: “Senator Cassidy and I introduced a sound plan earlier this week. Our bill, the Health Care Freedom for Patients Act, is based on an idea endorsed by President Trump and by many of our colleagues: Americans, not insurance companies, should control their own health care spending. “Americans could use the permanent, original premium tax credits to purchase qualified bronze plans with a Health Savings Account (HSA) attached, and they would then receive monthly contributions into that HSA, totaling $1,000 to $1,500 annually. Instead of lining the pockets of big insurance companies, like these subsidies, our HSA contributions would help patients pay expenses not covered by their insurance plan. “When patients can control their own care, they seek the most appropriate treatment options for their individual circumstances, incentivizing care providers to compete for patients by improving prices and care outcomes.” ______________________ Full remarks as prepared for delivery: Tomorrow, this chamber will have the opportunity to chart a new path forward on health care in this country. Senators will be given the choice to extend the Biden COVID bonuses for another three years, or to support health care reforms that will actually expand options, reduce premiums and give power to patients instead of insurance companies. Both sides agree the cost of health care is too high. But we need to address the root causes of the explosive increase in health care costs, rather than mask them with unsustainable spending. We are told the expiration of the enhanced Obamacare subsidies is a crisis, and that there is no time left to do anything but extend them. If there is a crisis coming, it is entirely of the Democrats’ making. My colleagues on the other side of the aisle created the premium tax credits as part of the Obamacare system, because they did not trust their own policy to make health insurance affordable without shifting the burden of paying for it from enrollees to taxpayers. When the original premium tax credits failed to bring down premiums, they enhanced the tax credits. And when that did not work, they extended the enhancements. They did all this without a single Republican vote. They also chose the current expiration date they now say must be changed. They created the cliff they now oppose. Our colleagues on the other side of the aisle have had years to offer serious suggestions on how to reform the Obamacare subsidies, yet every time a deadline approaches, we are told there is no workable option except to extend them again. It seems these subsidies were never truly meant to be temporary. But they should be. We do not have to go along with their last-minute extension, this time at the cost of $83 billion. Even our Democratic colleagues recognize our health care system needs reform. Leader Thune recently quoted many of them here on the Senate Floor. They said, and I quote: “We did fail to bring down the cost of health care.” They also said, and I quote again: “Now, right now, we have a broken health care system.” And it is not just rising premiums that prove Obamacare is broken. We cannot ignore the pervasive fraud in this subsidy program. The rules governing eligibility for these credits are often flaunted. In September, the Wall Street Journal reported that the rule barring people who can access affordable insurance through their employers is “barely enforced.” Based on the Government Accountability Office’s recent audit, income and citizenship verification rules are being ignored, too. Of their 24 fake applications for enhanced tax credits, 22 are receiving subsidies despite submitting falsified paperwork, or no paperwork at all. One of their applicants even received an email specifically confirming his income verification was approved, even though he never submitted any proof of income in the first place. The law prohibiting dual enrollment in Obamacare and Medicaid was broken 1.6 million times last year. Of course, Mr. President, unscrupulous insurance brokers have been signing people up for Obamacare plans without their knowledge or consent for profit. Alarmingly, insurers make the most money through these fraudulent credits, because they retain the money even if no payments are made on behalf of patients. As just one example, more people are signed up for $0 premium Obamacare plans in Miami-Dade than there are low-income people living there. One woman in Miami said she had been paid five times by brokers to enroll in Obamacare plans. These are not isolated incidents. This year, 6.4 million Americans were improperly enrolled in enhanced Obamacare subsidies at a cost of $27 billion. The true cost of fraud was likely even higher, because the GAO also found in its report that tens of billions of dollars of subsidies in 2023 had not been reconciled to enrollees’ incomes, meaning they could have misrepresented their incomes to qualify for bigger subsidies. This is the program our colleagues on the other side of the aisle are prepared to extend without changes. We cannot afford to do so. We cannot afford the $83 billion price tag of their proposal, and we cannot afford to tacitly consent to this fraud. Nor can we afford to tell the hundreds of millions of Americans who are insured through means other than Obamacare that we are uninterested in their rising premiums. While Republicans did not create this crisis—we did not create Obamacare, we did not create these subsidies and we did not create this expiration date—we have plans to address it. Senator Cassidy and I introduced a sound plan earlier this week. Our bill, the Health Care Freedom for Patients Act, is based on an idea endorsed by President Trump and by many of our colleagues: Americans, not insurance companies, should control their own health care spending. Americans could use the permanent, original premium tax credits to purchase qualified bronze plans with a Health Savings Account (HSA) attached, and they would then receive monthly contributions into that HSA, totaling $1,000 to $1,500 annually. Instead of lining the pockets of big insurance companies, like these subsidies, our HSA contributions would help patients pay expenses not covered by their insurance plan. When patients can control their own care, they seek the most appropriate treatment options for their individual circumstances, incentivizing care providers to compete for patients by improving prices and care outcomes. Our plan would also provide funding for cost-sharing reduction payments, which will reduce out-of-pocket costs for low-income patients, save taxpayers money and reduce premiums for benchmark marketplace plans by 11 percent. Additionally, our bill would ensure federal health funding is spent for the benefit of Americans by strengthening citizenship verification requirements and discouraging states from providing taxpayer-funded health care to illegal aliens. Some of our Republican colleagues have offered plans of their own this week, which are also worth considering in the future. We welcome bipartisan cooperation on these proposals, as with the pharmacy benefit manager reforms I recently introduced with Senator Wyden and many of our Finance Committee colleagues. But we must not simply kick the can down the road yet again. Every time we spend tens of billions of dollars for unsupervised and poorly designed subsidies, as our colleagues are asking us to do, we worsen the health care crisis we all want to solve. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://fulcher.house.gov/2025/12/09/id-cb72ce59-e7a4-4b4a-b641-11c1ed81abe4/,Fulcher and Simpson Applaud Passage of SRS Solution for Idaho Counties,2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,ID,Russ Fulcher,F000469,fulcher.house.gov,fulcher,https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, the United States House of Representatives passed an effort to fix Secure Rural Schools (SRS) payment allocations. The Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act of 2025 would reauthorize the United States Forest Service’s Secure Rural Schools and Self-Determination Program (SRS) through Fiscal Year 2026 and provide lapsed payments for 2024 and 2025. This initiative was supported by Idaho congressmen Russ Fulcher and Mike Simpson, who cosponsored the House bill and advocated for it to be brought up for a vote. “Having a majority of Idaho’s lands under federal government control forces our rural counties to rely on federal programs—such as Secure Rural Schools (SRS)—to support infrastructure projects, schools, and critical community services,”said Congressman Fulcher. “I am grateful to Speaker Johnson and House Republican Leadership for their collaborative efforts with myself and Congressman Simpson to get this measure on the House floor, and passed. However, a long-term solution is necessary, and I will continue to advocate for one in Congress that ensures Idahoans dictate Idaho affairs—not the federal government.” “Nearly two-thirds of Idaho is public land, which means a vast majority of rural counties throughout the state depend on the Secure Rural Schools Program. Renewing this critical program will ensure a vital source of funding for Idaho counties and help pay for essential rural community services. I look forward to seeing this lifeline benefit local communities throughout Idaho for schools and infrastructure projects. As a longtime supporter of the SRS program, I was proud to fight for this Idaho funding alongside Congressman Fulcher and support its passage on the House floor. I’m grateful to Speaker Johnson, House Leadership, and my colleagues for supporting this bipartisan program,” added Congressman Simpson. In addition to supporting the measure on the House floor, Reps. Fulcher and Simpson both worked closely with Speaker Johnson and House Republican Leadership to reaffirm support for the program and its importance to Idahoans. The measure passed and now heads to President Trump’s desk for his signature. ###",1,2026-04-17T05:47:03Z,2026-04-17T05:48:33Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-bill-to-restore-funding-for-rural-idaho-counties-to-become-law,Crapo Bill to Restore Funding for Rural Idaho Counties to Become Law,2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo celebrated passage of his legislation, S. 356, the Secure Rural Schools (SRS) Reauthorization Act, in the U.S. House of Representatives. The bill, which will restore funding to rural counties that steward tracts of untaxed federal lands, now heads to the President’s desk for signature. “The SRS program is vital to maintaining schools, roads and emergency response services in rural, forested counties,” said Crapo. “We have a responsibility to these communities who house large swaths of untaxable federal land. The passage of this legislation will provide retroactive pay to counties that faced deep cuts since the program’s expiration at the end of Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 and restore funding levels for FY 2026. I continue to press for a long-term solution to provide Idaho’s county governments with more certainty.” Passage of the bill comes on the heels of a bipartisan letter signed by 89 lawmakers led by Crapo, along with his colleagues U.S. Senator Ron Wyden (D-Oregon) and U.S. Representatives Doug LaMalfa (R-California) and Joe Neguse (D-Colorado), to U.S. House of Representatives leadership. The Senators and Representatives underscored the devastating impacts on rural counties absent funding from the SRS program and called for passage of the bill before the end of the year. The bill previously passed the U.S. Senate unanimously in June 2025. The legislation reauthorizes the program through FY 2026 and provides lapsed payments for FYs 2024 and 2025. U.S. Senators Ron Wyden (D-Oregon), Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and Jeff Merkley (D-Oregon) are original co-sponsors. Background on the SRS program Congress first authorized the first SRS program in 2000 with enactment of the SRS and Community Self-Determination Act. This legislation specifically assists counties containing tracts of federally owned forest land that are tax-exempt. The 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. In Idaho, $22.8 million was distributed across 34 counties to help pay for educational programs, emergency response systems and other services in Fiscal Year 2023. Since the program was not reauthorized in 2023, county payments reverted to 1908 timber sharing law, which represents about an 80 percent cut for some counties. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-obamacare-has-undermined-health-care-in-america,Crapo: Obamacare Has Undermined Health Care in America,2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.—Today on the Senate Floor, U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) called on his colleagues to support the Health Care Freedom for Patients Act, legislation to lower health care costs and give money directly to families to control their own care. He also discussed Obamacare’s failures, including the rampant fraud caused by the enhanced Obamacare health care subsidies, and explained why a straight extension of this program will do nothing to lower costs or premiums, or protect taxpayers. On the failure of Obamacare: “There were signs from the start that Obamacare would not work, which is why not one single Republican voted for it. That is also why the Democrats created the premium tax credits in the first place: they did not trust the one-size-fits-all nature of Obamacare to lower costs or to expand options. Instead of decreasing, over the last 15 years, Obamacare premiums have increased over 220 percent. A family of four pays $10,000 more for coverage today than they did before Obamacare, and their deductibles have doubled. Insurance providers have dried up and rural hospitals are struggling. “Obamacare is broken and throwing good taxpayer money after bad policy is not going to fix it. “The enhanced premium tax credits account for only about four percentage points of next year’s projected 20 percent increase in insurance premiums. Extending them will not solve this crisis. What it will do is cause tens of billions in more dollars to be paid directly to insurance companies without improving patient care or choice.” On fraud in the Biden COVID Bonuses: “With taxpayers footing the bill, these subsidies give insurance companies every single reason they need to keep hiking premiums. Even the Washington Post just yesterday explained that ‘Obamacare subsidies make it too easy to scam the system.’ “Last year, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services found that 1.6 million Americans were enrolled in both Medicaid and Obamacare plans. This year, 6.4 million Americans were improperly enrolled in enhanced premium tax credits at a cost of $27 billion. “Another 12 million subsidized plans reported no claims in 2024, suggesting that many of them were opened on behalf of people who did not even know they were insured. Because insurance companies receive the subsidies regardless of whether a plan is used, there is no incentive on their part to check the enrollment status. In 2024, 35 billion dollars were paid out for these unused plans.” On the Health Care Freedom for Patients Act: “Senator Cassidy and I have a different plan. The motivating principle is simple: patients should decide where their health care spending goes, not insurance companies. “In line with President Trump’s call to direct money to patients instead of insurance companies, this approach builds on the success of the Working Families Tax Cuts Act, which expanded Health Savings Account (HSA) eligibility to be paired with more affordable insurance plans. “These pre-funded, patient-driven accounts will help Americans pay for the out-of-pocket costs that are making health care unaffordable. “Our plan would take some of the money that otherwise would be spent on the COVID bonuses and direct it into HSAs attached to Obamacare bronze or catastrophic plans as monthly deposits totaling 1,000 to 1,500 dollars a year. Families can use that money to cover costs not handled by their insurance policy, without waiting for insurance companies to approve their treatment decisions. “Families can use that money to cover costs not handled by their insurance policy, without waiting for insurance companies to approve their treatment decisions. Our plan would also fund cost-sharing reduction subsidies, which mitigate out-of-pocket costs for low-income enrollees, reducing premiums by over 10 percent and saving taxpayers’ money. “It is time to lay the groundwork for giving Americans more control over their health care choices and truly making quality health care more affordable.” ______________________ Full remarks as prepared for delivery: This week, we are going to spend a lot of time discussing the problems with our health care system. To do that, we need to understand how we got here. Concerns about rising health care costs are not new. In 2009, Democrats highlighted shortcomings in the American health care system as proof that the federal government had to intervene. President Obama told us how to judge his health care plan. He told us that Americans would be able to keep their insurance plans and their doctors. He also told us that insurance premiums would go down. As everyone knows, these predictions did not come true. But there were signs from the start that Obamacare would not work, which is why not a single Republican voted for it. That is also why Democrats created the premium tax credits in the first place: they did not trust the one-size-fits-all nature of Obamacare to lower costs and expand options. Instead of decreasing, over the last 15 years, Obamacare premiums have increased over 220 percent. A family of four pays $10,000 more for coverage today than they did before Obamacare, and their deductibles have doubled. Insurance providers have dried up and rural hospitals are struggling. Obamacare has undermined health care in America. In 2021, Democrats again decided that premiums were too high and that a federal response was necessary. But rather than fix the structural flaws in Obamacare, they created an even bigger subsidy with fewer guardrails to entice more people into a broken program. Not only did they make the subsidy bigger, they made everyone eligible regardless of their income, so families making $600,000 a year began to qualify. Democrats also temporarily eliminated reviews to confirm accurate payments and allowed individuals to continuously enroll throughout the year. Because those changes were made under the premise of responding to the pandemic, the enhancements were only supposed to last for two years. But before they expired, Democrats extended them for three years, again without a single Republican vote. With those expanded subsidies again about to expire—again, at a date set by my Democrat colleagues—the pattern has become clear: Democrats respond to rising premiums by throwing taxpayer money at the problem. Their supposedly “short-term” fixes only drive premiums higher and make the problem harder to solve, leaving us with apparently no choice other than to do the same thing again and again. Obamacare is broken and throwing good taxpayer money after bad policy is not going to fix it. The enhanced premium tax credits account for only about four percentage points of next year’s projected 20 percent increase in insurance premiums. Extending them will not solve this crisis. What it will do is cause tens of billions in more dollars to be paid directly to insurance companies without improving patient care or choice. With taxpayers footing the bill, these subsidies give insurance companies every reason to keep hiking premiums. Even the Washington Post just yesterday explained that “Obamacare subsidies make it too easy to scam the system.” Last year, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services found that 1.6 million Americans were enrolled in both Medicaid and Obamacare plans. This year, 6.4 million Americans were improperly enrolled in enhanced premium tax credits at a cost of $27 billion. Another 12 million subsidized plans reported no claims in 2024, suggesting that many of them were opened on behalf of people who did not even know that they were insured. Because insurance companies receive the subsidy regardless of whether a plan is used, there’s no incentive to check the enrollment status. In 2024, 35 billion dollars were paid out for these unused plans. My colleagues in the House asked the Government Accountability Office to look into the fraud surrounding the Obamacare tax credits. Their findings were shocking. The GAO created fake identities and attempted to enroll them in subsidized Obamacare plans. All four of their fake applicants in 2024 received subsidies. This year, 18 of 20 applicants did. The GAO also found tens of thousands of cases of apparent identity theft, and hundreds of thousands of cases where insurers or brokers changed people’s plans or enrolled them in new ones without their consent. Perhaps worst of all, they found that over $21 billion worth of subsidies—nearly a third of all subsidies paid out in 2023—had not been double-checked against enrollees’ income. That means that there was nothing stopping those enrollees from misrepresenting their incomes to receive higher subsidies than those for which they were eligible. Ultimately, it is not just taxpayers that are hurt by this fraud, although taxpayers should not be on the hook for it to begin with. The other Americans who rely on federal health programs suffer as these programs go to waste. Republicans addressed some of these program integrity issues in the Working Families Tax Cuts Act when we tightened eligibility and verification standards for federal health care programs. But no degree of oversight and enforcement is as effective as addressing the basic incentives that result in fraud. I appreciate that some of my Democratic colleagues have finally acknowledged these issues, but the fact remains that they have not offered any ideas on how to solve them. Extending these expensive, fraud-ridden subsidies for another three years with no real reforms—not one!—is a non-starter. Continuing to pour billions of dollars more into the pockets of big insurance companies and fraudsters will not lower health care costs for American families—especially when you consider that the vast majority of Americans are not insured through the Obamacare marketplace and are therefore not eligible for these subsidies in the first place. Senator Cassidy and I have a different plan. The motivating principle is simple: patients should decide where their health care spending goes, not insurance companies. In line with President Trump’s call to direct money to patients instead of insurance companies, this approach builds on the success of the Working Families Tax Cuts Act, which expanded Health Savings Account (HSA) eligibility to be paired with more affordable insurance plans. These pre-funded, patient-driven accounts will help Americans pay for the out-of-pocket costs that are making health care unaffordable. Our plan would take some of the money that otherwise would be spent on the COVID bonuses and direct it into HSAs attached to Obamacare bronze or catastrophic plans as monthly deposits totaling 1,000 to 1,500 dollars a year. Families can use that money to cover costs not handled by their insurance policy, without waiting for insurance companies to approve their treatment decisions. Because families want the best value for their money, they will seek out the most appropriate treatment. Over time, this should result in lower health care costs as care providers compete for patients. Our plan would also fund cost-sharing reduction subsidies, which mitigate out-of-pocket costs for low-income enrollees, reducing premiums by over 10 percent and saving taxpayers’ money. These cost-sharing reductions would finally challenge the notion that Americans should simply accept ever-escalating premiums as the norm. In contrast, Democrats’ temporary COVID bonuses do not lower costs or premiums. They throw billions of dollars at insurance companies, up to 20 percent of which can go to profit and overhead. Our plan avoids that issue and empowers patients to control their own health care. We cannot transform our broken health care system overnight, but we can make real progress. We still have a chance to enact reforms that will do more than paper over the cracks in our health care system. We should take that opportunity instead of making the enhanced premium tax credit mistake all over again. It is time to lay the groundwork for giving Americans more control over their health care choices and truly making quality health care more affordable. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://fulcher.house.gov/2025/12/08/id-a0953b31-f38b-43c1-a8fa-8c6f067f2947/,Fulcher Issues Public Lands Letter to Idaho Leadership,2025-12-08,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,ID,Russ Fulcher,F000469,fulcher.house.gov,fulcher,https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher (Idaho-01) issued a letter to Idaho’s Constitutional Officers, State Legislators, and County Commissioners. The letter underscored the importance of encouraging local resource management, convening discussions on effective land-management practices moving forward, and safeguarding Idaho’s public lands for future generations of Idahoans. The entire letter reads as follows: I write to you as a fellow Idahoan fighting to preserve and protect our state’s precious natural resources, a cornerstone of which is Idaho’s lands. In Idaho, our public lands are a treasured part of our way of life, offering recreational opportunities, abundant resources, and natural beauty. Over 62% of the land within Idaho’s borders is controlled by the federal government. Some of this land was identified for federal control as a result of its mineral value, and other parts remained under federal control due to non-development during westward expansion, poor farming conditions, and terrain difficulties that posed challenges to homesteaders. This extensive federal government footprint in our state poses significant challenges to our autonomy in issuing leases for timber, grazing, and mining. A recent example of freedoms lost when Idahoans are not in control of Idaho affairs is the disastrous Lava Ridge Wind Project. In this situation, the Biden administration made clear they were willing to run roughshod over the State of Idaho and move forward with a wind farm development in Southern Idaho, despite consistent public outcry of disapproval. After serving seven years in Congress, it is clear to me that the federal government—who is effectively our landlord—has failed to manage the lands wisely and has been derelict in working with state and local entities to reduce the risk of wildfires, provide the public with better access to natural resources, and address the overall health of our lands. Put another way, federal entities are overwhelmed. They don’t have the resources to do all the management, so they don’t. As evidence, current deferred maintenance for federal land management projects on public lands reached approximately $50 billion in 2024, and moving forward, agency budgets will only see more pressure. Last year, federal land mismanagement was a major factor in nearly one million acres of our beautiful Idaho going up in flames, a level of devastation that puts significant financial strain on our local economies. Having the majority of the Gem State’s public lands under federal government control also forces us to rely on costly compensation programs from the federal government, like Payments in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) and Secure Rural Schools (SRS). These programs, which are intrinsically tied to Idaho infrastructure projects, schools, and critical community services, are not a long-term solution and are growing increasingly difficult to garner support for in Congress, which is a harsh reality we must all take into consideration. The reason for this growing lack of support is that they are viewed as subsidies from other states to Idaho. I hear it all the time: Members of Congress from states without vast levels of federal land don’t want to subsidize us anymore. It’s important to note that, due in part to the large federal footprint in Idaho, more than a third of our state budget comes through federal sources. If this issue is left unaddressed, we will have a real problem on our hands that will likely put unsustainable pressure on local property taxes. Eventually, a transition of land management responsibility to state and local entities is imminent due to the aforementioned growing frustration. I frequently hear the argument that local stakeholders can’t possibly afford to manage the lands within our borders. My response to that is long-term, we can’t afford not to. Consider: In 2024, the total PILT received by Idahoans through federal channels (calculated by total receipts divided by total federal acres) came out to approximately $1.25 per acre. I am confident that, given the ability to make our own land management decisions, a far greater return would be realized. But, we need to be proactive, have a plan, and be the drivers of the process. The answer is to encourage local resource management. No one is better equipped or more incentivized to responsibly manage Idaho land than Idahoans. The goal is not privatization but better stewardship through local stakeholder involvement—the state, counties, municipalities, tribes, ranchers, and private operators, all working together, are the solution. Our public lands need to stay public, but they need to be controlled locally. In Congress, I’ve prioritized returning decision-making power to Idahoans and reducing federal red tape. That includes modernizing outdated laws like the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) to enable better forest management, wildfire mitigation, and improved access for recreation and responsible development. As part of the EXPLORE Act, which was recently signed into law in conjunction with my bill, the Good Neighbor Authority (GNA) program was expanded to allow counties and Tribes to participate in revenue sharing with the federal government on local forest projects—something only available to states until now. While these measures are a step in the right direction, additional reforms are needed, and we have a long way to go. I have started holding a series of stakeholder meetings around the state, convening discussions with federal, state, local, and private interests to discuss best land management practices and how to effectively move forward. I encourage you to join these efforts and/or do the same within your sphere of influence. As we collectively embrace this opportunity to be wise stewards of our state’s natural resources and the responsibility to preserve and protect Idaho’s land for future generations, know that I am a resource and ally in Congress, and I will continue to fight for Idahoans’ right to manage the affairs of Idaho. Congressman Fulcher serves on the two premier House committees that set policy for federal lands: Energy & Commerce and Natural Resources. The letter can be found here. ###",1,2026-04-17T05:47:03Z,2026-04-17T05:48:33Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/chairs-crapo-cassidy-unveil-republican-bill-to-make-health-care-affordable-give-money-directly-to-families,"Chairs Crapo, Cassidy Unveil Republican Bill to Make Health Care Affordable, Give Money Directly to Families",2025-12-08,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.—U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), chair of the Senate Finance Committee, and Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-Louisiana), chair of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, unveiled the Health Care Freedom for Patients Act, historic Republican legislation to lower health care costs and give money directly to families to control their own care. This bill is an alternative to Democrats’ temporary COVID bonuses, which send billions of tax dollars to giant insurance companies without lowering insurance premiums. “Giving billions of taxpayer dollars to insurers is not working to reduce health insurance premiums for patients,” said Senator Crapo. “We need to give Americans more control over their own health care decisions. This bill builds on the work we did in the Working Families Tax Cuts Act and will help Americans manage the rising cost of health care without driving costs even higher.” “Instead of 100 percent of this money going to insurance companies, let’s give it to patients. By giving them an account that they control, we give them the power. We make health care affordable again,” said Dr. Cassidy. This legislation: Sends money to patients, not giant insurance companies; Americans on affordable bronze and catastrophic plans would access these dollars in a Health Savings Account (HSA). These funds cannot be used for abortion or dangerous gender transitions. Lowers insurance premiums by funding cost-sharing reduction (CSR) payments; Empowers Americans to choose the insurance plan that fits their needs by increasing access to low-cost catastrophic plans; Prevents illegal immigrants from accessing Medicaid by requiring states to verify citizenship and immigration status before coverage; and Stops taxpayer dollars from funding gender transition services under Medicaid and excludes them as an essential health benefit for plans sold on the Obamacare exchanges. Background In line with President Trump’s call to direct money to patients instead of insurance companies, this approach builds on the success of the Working Families Tax Cuts Act, which expanded HSA eligibility to be paired with more affordable insurance plans. These pre-funded, patient-driven accounts will help Americans pay for the out-of-pocket costs that are making health care unaffordable. In contrast, Democrats’ temporary COVID bonuses do not lower costs or premiums. They throw billions of dollars at insurance companies—up to 20 percent of which can go to profit and overhead—and the expiration of this policy only accounts for roughly 4 percent of the premium increase in 2026. Instead of subsidizing insurance companies, Congress should empower patients to control their own health care. Click here for a one-pager.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-announces-staff-changes-and-new-hires,Crapo Announces Staff Changes and New Hires,2025-12-05,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) announced new hires and staff changes in his Washington, D.C., and Boise offices. Kyra Smith has rejoined Senator Crapo’s office as Press Secretary. Kyra previously served in Senator Crapo’s Washington, D.C., office before moving home to Idaho. In her time away from the office, Kyra oversaw operations at an Idaho-based health care communications business and its subsequent merger with a national brand. She also served as a director of marketing and regulatory affairs, helping health care organizations navigate the transition to value-based care. Kyra holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Idaho. Brendan Campbell joined Senator Crapo’s office as Legislative Assistant. Brendan is responsible for issues related to agriculture, public lands, tribal affairs and energy. Brendan previously worked for the National Park Foundation and the Senate Western Caucus under Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming). He holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and government from the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs. Kennedy Cummins, a Murtaugh native, has been promoted to Legislative Correspondent. Kennedy first joined Senator Crapo’s Boise office as an intern and was quickly promoted to Staff Assistant. In her new role, Kennedy will be responsible for defense, foreign affairs and homeland security issues. She will graduate from Boise State University in December with a degree in political science. Christian Horchler rejoined the Washington, D.C., office as Staff Assistant and Office Manager. Christian previously served as an intern for the fall 2024 term. He holds a bachelor’s degree in political science with an emphasis in foreign affairs from Brigham Young University--Idaho. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-risch-join-cornyn-to-introduce-back-the-blue-act,"Crapo, Risch Join Cornyn to Introduce Back the Blue Act",2025-12-05,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators for Idaho Mike Crapo and Jim Risch joined Senator John Cornyn (R-Texas) and over 30 of their Senate Republican colleagues to introduce the Back the Blue Act, which would increase penalties for criminals who target law enforcement officers and provide new tools for officers to protect themselves. “The Back the Blue Act reinforces our commitment to the brave men and women who put their lives on the line each day serving their communities,” said Crapo. “Those who seek to harm law enforcement and judges should face swift justice, and this legislation provides the tools within the federal criminal code to enforce tougher penalties on these violent offenders.” “Any violence or attacks against law enforcement officers are unacceptable,” said Risch. “The Back the Blue Act reinforces law and order, holds criminals accountable, and protects our state and nation’s brave law enforcement officers who keep our communities safe.” Background on the Back the Blue Act: Strengthens laws to protect police officers Creates a new federal crime for killing, attempting to kill or conspiring to kill a federal judge, federal law enforcement officer or federally funded public safety officer. The offender would be subject to the death penalty and a mandatory minimum sentence of 30 years if death results; the offender would otherwise face a minimum sentence of 10 years. Creates a new federal crime for assaulting a federally funded law enforcement officer with escalating penalties, including mandatory minimums, based on the extent of any injury and the use of a dangerous weapon. However, no prosecution can commence absent certification by the Attorney General that prosecution is appropriate. Creates a new federal crime for interstate flight from justice to avoid prosecution for killing, attempting to kill, or conspiring to kill a federal judge, federal law enforcement officer, or federally funded public safety officer. The offender would be subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years for this offense. Creates a specific aggravating factor for federal death penalty prosecutions Clarifies that the murder or attempted murder of a law enforcement officer or first responder is a statutory aggravating factor for purposes of the federal death penalty. Limits federal habeas relief for murders of law enforcement officers Imposes time limits and substantive limits on federal courts’ review of challenges to state-court convictions for crimes involving the murder of a public safety officer, when the public safety officer was engaged in the performance of official duties or on account of the performance of official duties. These changes are consistent with the fast-track procedures created in 1996, which are applied to federal death penalty cases. Limits recovery of certain damages and fees for individuals engaged in felonies Limits the type of civil damages and attorney’s fees recoverable by a criminal as a result of purported injuries incurred during the commission of a felony or crime of violence. Expands self-defense and second amendment rights for law enforcement officers Allows law enforcement officers, subject to limited regulation, to carry firearms into federal facilities and other jurisdictions where such possession is otherwise prohibited. This legislation is endorsed by the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO), Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA), Major County Sheriffs of America (MCSA), National Narcotic Officers’ Associations’ Coalition (NNOAC), Association of State Criminal Investigative Agencies (ASCIA) and the Sergeants Benevolent Association NYPD. The legislation is co-sponsored by Senators Jim Banks (R-Indiana), Marsha Blackburn, (R-Tennessee), John Boozman (R-Arkansas), Katie Britt (R-Alabama), Ted Budd (R-North Carolina), Shelly Moore Capito (R-West Virginia), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Steve Daines (R-Montana), Deb Fischer (R-Nebraska), Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Bill Hagerty (R-Tennessee), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Mississippi), Jim Justice (R-West Virginia), John Kennedy (R-Louisiana), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming), Roger Marshall (R-Kansas), Dave McCormick (R-Pennsylvania), Markwayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma), Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska), Mike Rounds (R-South Dakota), Rick Scott (R-Florida), Tim Sheehy (R-Montana), John Barrasso (R-Wyoming), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Todd Young (R-Indiana), Bill Cassidy (R-Louisiana), James Lankford (R-Oklahoma), Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina), Tim Scott (R-South Carolina) and Tommy Tuberville (R-Alabama). ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://fulcher.house.gov/2025/12/04/id-c14d856b-9fff-45bb-a85a-c2b888775d34/,"Fulcher Introduces Healthcare Bill, Offering Greater Flexibility and Affordability",2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,ID,Russ Fulcher,F000469,fulcher.house.gov,fulcher,https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher (Idaho-01) issued the following statement after introducing the Removing Insurance Gaps for Health Treatment (RIGHT) Act of 2025. “Idahoans deserve affordable and flexible healthcare plans that meet their needs,” said Congressman Fulcher. “Current short-term limited-duration insurance (STLDI) plans only allow for coverage up to a total of four months. Four months is far too short a limit, posing undue stress and uncertainty on Americans who would otherwise be left without coverage,” Fulcher added. “My bill, the RIGHT Act, expands STLDI plans to a full year, with the option to renew for up to three years. This is a practical, no-cost approach that offers families more choice, control, and flexibility to select the healthcare options that work best for them.” Bill Background Healthcare costs continue to rise at an astronomical rate, forcing Americans to make tough decisions regarding their coverage. Included in this turmoil is the slashing of short-term limited-duration insurance (STLDI) plans. Currently, these programs are only allowed an initial duration of three months. Including renewals, these plans can last up to four months. Congressman Fulcher’s Removing Insurance Gaps for Health Treatment (RIGHT) Act of 2025 would permanently establish short-term limited-duration insurance programs under the Public Health Service Act. These plans would go a full year, with the option to renew for up to three years. Establishing short-term limited-duration health plans that meet the needs of Idahoans and all Americans helps eliminate the angst that comes with not having health plan options. ###",1,2026-04-17T05:47:03Z,2026-04-17T05:48:33Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-heinrich-lamalfa-torres-reintroduce-the-native-american-seeds-act,"Crapo, Heinrich, LaMalfa, Torres Reintroduce the Native American Seeds Act",2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--Today, U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Martin Heinrich (D-New Mexico), along with U.S. Representatives Doug LaMalfa (R-California) and Norma Torres (D-California), reintroduced the Native American Seeds Act of 2025. The bipartisan, bicameral legislation would assist tribal governments working to protect seeds that are culturally significant to their communities. “By empowering tribal self-governance and equipping native communities with the tools to preserve traditional agriculture systems and culturally significant seeds, we can help safeguard these deeply rooted practices for generations to come,” said Crapo. “I’m proud to lead legislation that will help preserve Tribes’ cultural practices and way of life by protecting Native seeds and traditional foodways for future generations,” said Heinrich. “This effort will grow local economies in Indian Country and help ensure Tribal members remain connected to their culture and heritage.” “Protecting native heritage starts with making sure seeds that hold traditional importance aren’t lost to disaster or neglect,” said Rep. LaMalfa. “This legislation gives Tribes the flexibility they need to preserve and grow these plants on their own terms. With wildfires, drought, and other challenges threatening seed stocks nationwide, this bill strengthens farming efforts on reservations and helps maintain a link to traditions that shouldn’t be pushed aside. I’m pleased to join Congresswoman Torres in leading this effort.” “Traditional seeds hold centuries of knowledge, culture, and resilience,” said Congresswoman Torres. “This bill recognizes the fundamental importance of preserving these seeds—not just for food security, but for the cultural, spiritual, and environmental legacy they carry. From ceremonial practices to sustainable agriculture, Native communities have cultivated these seeds with intention and care. The Native American Seeds Act of 2025 will help ensure that future generations can continue these traditions and protect their heritage. I’m proud to partner with Congressman LaMalfa, Senator Heinrich, and Senator Crapo to champion this vital effort.” ""The Shoshone-Bannock Tribes appreciate the efforts of Senator Crapo, Senator Heinrich, Representative Torres, and Representative LaMalfa to introduce this important legislation to assist us in our efforts to preserve seeds for numerous plants, including camas, bitterroot, wild onions, sage, and chokecherry, that hold deep cultural, historical, and ceremonial significance to us. This bill will help the federal government honor its obligations under the Fort Bridger Treaty of 1868 and enable future generations to continue our traditional ways of life,” said Donna Thompson, Chairwoman, Fort Hall Business Council, Shoshone-Bannock Tribes. The Native American Seeds Act of 2025 directs the U.S. Secretary of the Department of the Interior to work with Tribes to identify Native American seeds and to support tribal seed banks, related facilities and traditional agricultural systems. Additionally, the legislation prohibits the disclosure of culturally sensitive or proprietary tribal information provided to the Department. Across the country, factors such as wildfire, drought, insect/disease outbreak, inclement weather and contamination have increased the challenges that Tribes face in preserving their seeds. This bill will help ensure that tribal connections to plants holding traditional importance will continue for future generations while also strengthening food security, improving physical and mental health outcomes and expanding opportunity and participation on reservations. Read full text of the bill HERE. Original co-sponsors: Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Senator Ruben Gallego (D-Arizona) and Senator Ben Lujan (D-New Mexico) ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-wyden-introduce-bipartisan-pharmacy-benefit-manager-legislation,"Crapo, Wyden Introduce Bipartisan Pharmacy Benefit Manager Legislation",2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"“Pharmacy benefit managers should not profit from overcharging patients for their prescriptions,” said Crapo. “This bipartisan legislation is a decisive step toward making the prescription drug market easier to navigate for both patients and pharmacies. These proposals form a strong foundation for additional efforts to promote pharmacy access, demystify drug pricing and reduce costs for both taxpayers and seniors.” “It’s long past time to go after middlemen who are making Americans’ prescription drugs more expensive,” Wyden said. “The Finance Committee has put forward a comprehensive approach to stop the pharmacy benefit manager business practices that are harming seniors and taxpayers who count on Medicare to deliver affordable prescription drugs. It’s time to get this done.” Delink PBM compensation from their negotiated rebates to disincentivize PBMs from promoting higher-priced medications; Increase PBM reporting requirements to Medicare Part D plan sponsors and to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and empower Part D plan sponsors to audit their PBM for compliance with contract requirements; Reinforce existing requirements that plan sponsors contract with any willing pharmacy that meets their standard contract terms and conditions to better protect independent pharmacies in rural areas from practices that have contributed to widespread closures; Require participation by retail community pharmacies in the National Average Drug Acquisition Cost (NADAC) survey, which would ensure accurate Medicaid payments to pharmacies; and Mandate PBMs pass Medicaid payments directly to pharmacies to ensure transparent drug costs for states and taxpayers. Senators John Barrasso (R-Wyoming), Michael Bennet (D-Colorado), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tennessee), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nevada), Bill Cassidy (R-Louisiana), Maggie Hassan (D-New Hampshire), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico), Steve Daines (R-Montana), Tina Smith (D-Minnesota), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Mark Warner (D-Virginia), James Lankford (R-Oklahoma), Raphael Warnock (D-Georgia), Roger Marshall (R-Kansas), Peter Welch (D-Vermont), John Thune (R-South Dakota), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-Rhode Island) and Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina) co-sponsored the PBM Price Transparency and Accountability Act.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-wyden-lamalfa-neguse-lead-push-for-passage-of-secure-rural-schools-reauthorization,"Crapo, Wyden, LaMalfa, Neguse Lead Push for Passage of Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization",2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Ron Wyden (D-Oregon), alongside their colleagues Representatives Doug LaMalfa (R-California) and Joe Neguse (D-Colorado), led a bipartisan coalition of 89 lawmakers in sending a letter to House leadership requesting urgent consideration of S.356, the Secure Rural Schools (SRS) and Self Determination Act. The bill, which unanimously passed in the Senate in June of 2025, would reauthorize the program through Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 and provide lapsed payments for FYs 2024 and 2025. Funding for the SRS program lapsed in September of 2023, with the last authorized payments distributed to counties in early 2024. "". . . Counties and school districts across 41 states have seen a 63 percent cut in funding. This $177 million loss is devastating for rural communities, leading to school closures, delayed road and bridge maintenance and reduced public safety services. These are not abstract policy debates; they are tangible consequences for local governments and the communities that steward untaxed federal lands,"" the letter reads. ""Counties applaud Senators Crapo and Wyden and Representatives LaMalfa and Neguse for leading this bipartisan push to reauthorize Secure Rural Schools,” said National Association of Counties (NACo) Executive Director Matthew Chase. “With unanimous Senate support and strong bipartisan support in the House, the path forward should be clear: SRS keeps schools operating, roads maintained and public safety services funded in communities that manage vast federal lands, and must be reauthorized now. Given that more than 700 rural counties have been awaiting these payments since the program lapsed at the end of FY 2023, we urge House leadership to act expeditiously by passing the bipartisan, bicameral SRS package.” “Every public school student in this country should have opportunities and resources that are not determined by their ZIP code,” said Becky Pringle, president of the National Education Association. “Our students deserve access to a wide range of learning experiences that prepare them for the real world. Today, one in five public school students attends a rural public school. Rural students and the communities that support them need sustained investment. That is why we applaud the bipartisan, bicameral call for the U.S. House of Representatives to pass the Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act and send it to the President for signature. Our nation’s rural students need this support to reach their full potential. We are grateful to Senators Crapo and Wyden and Representatives LaMalfa and Neguse for their steadfast commitment to rural communities, their families, and their students through their leadership on this important measure.” ""Western Governors appreciate the efforts of many leaders in Congress, including Senators Crapo and Wyden and Representatives LaMalfa and Neguse, to ensure rural communities will continue to have financial support for essential services,"" said Jack Waldorf, Executive Director, Western Governors’ Association. ""The Governors believe it is incumbent upon the federal government to ensure counties and states receive continued, predictable, and full payments under each of the three titles of the Secure Rural Schools (SRS) program."" View the full text of the letter HERE. Background on the SRS program: The first SRS program was authorized in 2000 with enactment of the SRS and Community Self-Determination Act. This legislation specifically assists counties containing tracts of federally owned forest land that are tax-exempt. The 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. In Idaho, $25 million was distributed across 34 counties to help pay for educational programs, emergency response systems and other services this past year. Since the program was not reauthorized, county payments reverted to 1908 timber sharing law, which represents about an 80 percent cut for some counties. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/new-report-billions-of-dollars-wasted-consumers-harmed-due-to-health-care-fraud-in-obamacare-plans,"New Report: Billions of Dollars Wasted, Consumers Harmed Due to Health Care Fraud in Obamacare Plans",2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.—U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, issued the following statement on a new report from the Government Accountability Office (GAO) identifying several avenues of widespread fraud in Obamacare Marketplace plans, including large-scale failures that have allowed applicants using fake identities, stolen Social Security numbers and incorrect income estimates to receive Obamacare subsidies at taxpayers’ expense. “The GAO’s findings further illustrate the brokenness of Obamacare,” said Crapo. “The temporary, enhanced COVID-era credits have exacerbated Obamacare’s structural failures, causing fraud to explode and leaving taxpayers to subsidize criminals and shady insurance brokers. Premiums and out-of-pocket costs are rising for all Americans, but as we look for ways to improve the health care system, this investigation serves as a stark reminder that we cannot simply throw good money after bad policy.” As part of its investigation, GAO created fake identities and attempted to enroll them in Obamacare advance premium tax credits (PTCs), a taxpayer-funded subsidy for Obamacare recipients. All four of its fake applicants were approved in 2024 and 18 of 20 fake applicants in 2025 were receiving subsidies as of September. The Obamacare Marketplace accepted some of these enrollees with falsified proof of income, Social Security numbers and citizenship status, and others were approved even when no documents were submitted. In addition to successfully enrolling almost all its fake applicants in the subsidy program, the GAO found the program was at risk of the following forms of fraud: Identity theft: 66,000 Social Security numbers were enrolled in multiple plans in 2024. One Social Security number was enrolled in 125 different policies, totaling 71 years’ worth of credits, in 2023. $94 million in subsidies went to plans created with Social Security numbers belonging to a deceased individual. Unauthorized changes: In 2024, 160,000 applications for PTCs were likely changed by insurance brokers without the authorization of the enrollee. In just eight months, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services received over 270,000 complaints from Americans who were enrolled or switched into plans they did not want. These changes allow brokers to charge fees they should not receive and can disrupt enrollees’ care. Credit overpayment: Nearly a third of PTCs paid in 2023 were not reconciled to enrollees’ income. Without this check, enrollees can receive larger subsidies by intentionally misrepresenting their income at the time of enrollment. The investigation was requested by Congressmen Jason Smith (Missouri), Brett Guthrie (Kentucky) and Jim Jordan (Ohio). Read the report HERE. Related: U.S. House Committee on Ways and Means: Watchdog Finds Consumer Harm and Billions of Taxpayer Dollars Wasted in Health Care Fraud in Affordable Care Act Plans U.S. House Committee on Energy and Commerce: Non-Partisan Watchdog Finds Consumer Harm and Tens of Billions of Taxpayer Dollars Wasted Due to Health Care Fraud in Affordable Care Act Plans ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-shaheen-reintroduce-bill-to-expedite-recovery-of-missing-servicemembers,"Crapo, Shaheen Reintroduce Bill to Expedite Recovery of Missing Servicemembers",2025-12-01,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--On the heels of the news Idaho welcomed home the remains of 2nd Lieutenant Charles Atteberry after more than 80 years missing in action, U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-New Hampshire) have again introduced legislation that would eliminate obstacles preventing families and caseworkers from accessing records needed for recovery of America’s prisoners of war (POWs) and missing in action (MIA). The Bring Our Heroes Home Act has 7 co-sponsors and previously advanced out of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee unanimously last November. According to the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, approximately 80,930 Americans--including 359 Idahoans--remain unaccounted for from World War II, Korea, Vietnam, the Cold War, the Gulf Wars and other conflicts. “Idaho welcomed home another missing hero just a few weeks ago, and we cannot give up on our efforts to identify and bring home every remaining missing servicemember,” said Crapo. “We must cut the bureaucratic red tape that delays bringing them to an eternal resting place here at home. We owe their families and loved ones the assurances they have not been forgotten.” “The families of America’s missing service members carry the heavy weight of uncertainty, waiting years and often decades for answers about their loved ones who served our nation with courage and conviction,” said Shaheen. “We owe it to these families to make that wait as short as possible and free from unnecessary bureaucratic burden. Our bipartisan Bring Our Heroes Home Act takes meaningful steps to ensure that vital records are preserved, responsibly declassified and made accessible so that families can finally gain the clarity they deserve. Our nation has a solemn responsibility to honor every hero’s legacy and to ensure none are forgotten or left behind.” The Bring Our Heroes Home Act would: Create a collection of missing Armed Forces and civilian personnel records at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) for families and caseworkers to easily access; Require executive agencies to identify, locate and transmit any missing Armed Forces personnel records to the National Archives for placement in the collection; and Establish an independent Missing Armed Forces and Civilian Personnel Records Review Board to identify missing personnel records, facilitate the transmission and disclosure of these records, and review any decisions by federal agencies to postpone declassification for purposes of protecting sensitive classified material. Idaho recently welcomed home 2nd Lieutenant Charles Atteberry, a World War II servicemember from Parma who had been missing and unidentified for 80 years. Through the U.S. military’s use of DNA testing, Lt. Atteberry was able to be identified from a mass grave in Taiwan. Lt. Atteberry’s brother, Lloyd, also served in the military as a pilot during World War II. Lloyd is still considered missing in action and his remains have not been recovered since he was reportedly shot down in 1943. Additional co-sponsors of the measure include Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Alex Padilla (D-California), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minnesota), Tammy Duckworth (D-Illinois), Jacky Rosen (D-Nevada), Maggie Hassan (D-New Hampshire) and Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii). Bill text is available HERE. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://fulcher.house.gov/2025/11/25/id-fe5eb258-d1e3-488b-aa68-86a5f1204107/,Fulcher Introduces Bill to Unleash Power of Geothermal Energy and Lower Costs,2025-11-25,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,ID,Russ Fulcher,F000469,fulcher.house.gov,fulcher,https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher (Idaho-01) reintroduced legislation to streamline the discovery and permitting process for geothermal energy projects. Specifically, H.R. 5576, the Enhancing Geothermal Production on Federal Lands Act, will bring geothermal to parity with oil and gas exploration on public lands. Congressman Russ Fulcher shared, “Idaho has been a pioneer in harnessing the power of geothermal energy for over a century. This clean, abundant resource has the potential to help meet the United States’ power demand, which is increasing at a historic rate due in part to AI and other technological advancements. However, current excessive federal government regulation is hindering the exploration and development of geothermal. This bill streamlines that process, reducing unnecessary barriers and unlocking new opportunities to develop clean, reliable energy in the Gem State and across the West, helping to lower prices for consumers.” House Committee on Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman said, “America is in need of more energy resources to meet our exponentially growing demand. H.R. 5576 will help to streamline the exploration of geothermal resources on Federal lands, a valuable source of baseload energy. I applaud Rep. Fulcher for his commitment to America’s energy prosperity.” Utah Congressman Mike Kennedy, a co-sponsor of the legislation, added, “I am pleased to co-sponsor Congressman Fulcher’s (ID-01) Enhancing Geothermal Production on Federal Lands Act. Unlocking geothermal energy to meet the rising needs of the intermountain west will put America on track to be the world’s number one energy producer.” Bill Background With 90 percent of viable geothermal resources located on federally managed lands, almost all geothermal projects are subject to the NEPA review process. Currently, most geothermal exploration wells require an Environmental Assessment (EA) to be filed before exploration begins. This EA process for geothermal projects averages 10 months, meaning interested parties must wait nearly a year to determine if a viable geothermal resource even exists. The Enhancing Geothermal Production on Federal Lands Act will alleviate this burdensome process by:",1,2026-04-17T05:47:03Z,2026-04-17T05:48:33Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/11/21/2025/crapo-co-leads-effort-to-better-realize-long-term-savings-from-preventive-health-care,Crapo Co-Leads Effort to Better Realize Long-Term Savings from Preventive Health Care,2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. —U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) today joined his colleague Senator Angus King (I-Maine), as well as Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-Maryland) and Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), in reintroducing S. 3204, the Preventive Health Savings Act. This bipartisan legislation would enable the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) to better account for how certain health care initiatives may yield prevention-related savings, allowing congressional leaders to receive more accurate and informed estimates for policymaking. Currently, CBO uses a 10-year budget window when providing its analyses. The proposed bill would increase this outlook to 30 years. “It is important we have a clear, long-term picture of the return on investment from preventive health care measures,” said Crapo. “Removing current CBO limitations benefits any future health care reform and helps pave the way for additional preventive measures that save lives and reduce costs.” The Preventive Health Savings Act limits the definition of preventive health to “action that focuses on the health of the public, individuals, and defined populations in order to protect, promote, and maintain health and wellness and prevent disease, disability, and premature death that is demonstrated by credible and publicly available evidence from epidemiological projection models, clinical trials, observational studies in humans, longitudinal studies, and meta-analysis.” This would ensure a tailored review of policies intended to curb federal health care expenditures through prevention-focused actions. The legislation is also supported by a large coalition of health care-focused organizations and patient advocacy groups, including the American Medical Association, the American College of Preventive Medicine, the American Physical Therapy Association, the National Association of Community Health Centers, Premier, Inc. and the Healthcare Leadership Council. Companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives is being led by Representatives Jay Obernolte (R-California), Diana DeGette (D-Colorado), Buddy Carter (R-Georgia) and Scott Peters (D-California). ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-co-leads-effort-to-better-realize-long-term-savings-from-preventive-health-care,"Crapo, Hickenlooper Reintroduce Legislation to Preserve Night Sky from Interference, Aid Research",2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and John Hickenlooper (D-Colorado) reintroduced the bipartisan Dark and Quiet Skies Act to preserve the night sky from unintentional light and radio interference. “The vastness of Idaho’s wilderness allows for truly magnificent wonders in the night sky,” said Crapo. “The advancement of space technology has made these majestic spaces fewer, and collaborative approaches to mitigate interference is vitally needed.” “There’s bipartisan agreement that we need a strong space economy and cutting-edge scientific research to unlock the mysteries of our universe,” said Hickenlooper. “The Dark and Quiet Skies Act helps us do both. This is a no-brainer solution, and we’re pushing to get it done.” Scientific and amateur space observations can be disrupted by the light and radio transmission of passing satellites. Satellites have increased from 2,200 in orbit in 2019 to over 11,000 as of 2024. Current estimates predict there will be over 60,000 by 2030. The Dark and Quiet Skies Act would create a Center of Excellence overseen by the National Institute of Standards and Technology to develop best practices to reduce light and noise interference. The Center would stimulate voluntary participation and collaboration among the astronomical community, industry and federal agencies to research, develop and deploy light interference mitigation techniques. Bill one-pager is available HERE. Full text of the bill is available HERE. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/11/19/2025/crapo-announces-finance-committee-staff-updates,Crapo Announces Finance Committee Staff Updates,2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.—U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) today announced the following staff updates: Mary Kate Carter, International Trade Policy Advisor Mary Kate rejoins the Committee from Lot Sixteen, where she co-led the firm’s trade practice as vice president of government relations. She previously worked as an associate manager for international policy at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and as a professional staff member for the Committee under then-Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa). She earned her M.A. in International Trade and Investment Policy from The George Washington University and a B.A. in French and International Trade from Clemson University. Michael Hawthorne, Tax Counsel Michael joins the Committee from Squire Patton Boggs, where he was an associate in the Public Policy Practice Group working on issues involving tax and trade legislation. He previously served as a law clerk on the Senate Judiciary Committee under Ranking Member Grassley, the House Ways and Means Committee under Ranking Member Kevin Brady (R-Texas) and the Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations under Chairman Rob Portman (R-Ohio). He received his J.D. and his B.A. in Political Science from The George Washington University. Alexander Hughes, Press Assistant Alexander joins the Committee as a recent graduate of Harvard University, where he earned his A.B. in Government. He previously interned at the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party under Chairman John Moolenaar (R-Michigan) and at National Review. Anna Rose Moore, Senior Health Policy Advisor Anna Rose joins the Committee from the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions under Chairman Bill Cassidy (R-Louisiana), where she was a health policy advisor working on issues including commercial health insurance and pharmacy benefit manager reform. Anna Rose holds a M.P.H. and a B.S. in Public Health from Georgia Southern University. See here for a full list of Crapo Finance Committee staff. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-statement-at-executive-session-to-consider-social-security-ustr-hhs-nominations,"Crapo Statement at Executive Session to Consider Social Security, USTR, HHS Nominations",2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.—U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) delivered the following remarks at an executive session to consider the nominations of Arjun Mody to be Deputy Commissioner of Social Security, Jeffrey Goettman to be a Deputy United States Trade Representative (USTR), Julie Callahan to be Chief Agricultural Negotiator at the Office of the USTR, and Thomas (March) Bell to be Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). As prepared for delivery: “We meet today to consider favorably reporting the nominations of Arjun Mody, who is nominated to serve as the Deputy Commissioner for the Social Security Administration (SSA), Jeffrey Goettman, who is nominated to serve as the Deputy United States Trade Representative (USTR), Julie Callahan, who is nominated to serve as Chief Agricultural Negotiator at USTR and March Bell, who is nominated to serve as the Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). “This morning’s meeting will provide members with the opportunity to offer remarks on the nominees. We will notify members of a time and location later today to conduct the vote off the Senate floor. “Each of the nominees proved themselves to be well qualified at their hearing. “Mr. Mody highlighted his extensive experience working with congressional leaders to build consensus and find solutions to challenging policy issues. He will bring the same work ethic and collaborative approach to the Social Security Administration. “Mr. Goettman demonstrated his commitment to ensuring the resiliency of U.S. manufacturing supply chains, particularly for small businesses. I look forward to working with him, if confirmed, to ensure the formulation of trade policy that is both fair and economically sound. “Dr. Callahan brings decades of expertise to USTR, as reflected by the over 80 trade associations supporting her nomination. If confirmed as Chief Agriculture Negotiator, she will ensure the important interests of American agriculture are championed on the world stage. “Lastly, Mr. Bell will utilize his extensive oversight experience if he is confirmed as Inspector General to fight waste, fraud and abuse, and to keep Congress abreast of the HHS’s steps to save taxpayer dollars. “I will be voting in favor of each nominee and encourage my colleagues to do the same.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-statement-at-hearing-on-the-rising-cost-of-health-care,Crapo Statement at Hearing on the Rising Cost of Health Care,2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.—U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) delivered the following remarks at a hearing on the rising cost of health care. As prepared for delivery: “After the longest shutdown in history, the federal government has reopened. “For 43 days, Americans lived with disruption and uncertainty. Essential food assistance was paused, paychecks for servicemembers and federal workers were withheld, and air travel was delayed for safety. “Both sides agree the cost of health care is too high. But sending billions of dollars to insurance companies while premiums continue to rise and the deficit continues to grow is not a solution. “We need to address the root causes of the explosive increase in health care costs, rather than mask them with unsustainable spending. “For 43 days, Republicans made the same offer—reopen the government and we will negotiate. Today, we meet to discuss potential solutions. To our witnesses, thank you for your willingness to appear on such short notice to share your insights. “Our health care system is broken. Obamacare failed to make health care more affordable. Premiums and out-of-pocket costs are rising for all Americans. “In the individual market, the Obamacare subsidies—which do not expire, despite some confusing rhetoric—only mask year-over-year price increases. The temporary, enhanced COVID-era credits, which Democrats twice set to expire, exacerbate structural failures. Fraud has exploded and incentives to hold down premiums have evaporated. “In fact, only three to four percentage points of the underlying premium increase confronting patients is the result of the expiration of the enhanced COVID credits. “Some will argue that time has run out to consider alternatives to extending the COVID credits. I encourage my colleagues to avoid this conclusion and instead keep an open mind in search of a bipartisan outcome. “We need both short-term and long-term, sustainable solutions. “In the short term, we cannot simply throw good money after bad policy. If we keep advancing a system that drives up premiums, we will make this problem even harder to solve. “Instead, we should set the groundwork for giving Americans more control over their health care choices. Rather than accepting the current system of giving billions of taxpayer dollars to insurers, we should consider providing financial assistance directly to consumers through health savings accounts (HSAs), which are now available on the Obamacare exchanges because of a provision in the One Big Beautiful Bill. “Leveraging long-standing provisions in the tax code, like the medical expense deduction, could help patients further defray high out-of-pocket prices. “To guide future policymaking, a commission at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) could evaluate and recommend options to further reduce costs for all Americans. “We should fund cost-sharing reduction subsidies, which mitigate out-of-pocket costs for low-income enrollees, reduce premiums for all Obamacare plans by over 10 percent and save taxpayers’ money. “We should also enact pharmaceutical benefit manager (PBM) reform, which would realign incentives in the drug supply chain to lower patient costs at the pharmacy counter. Ranking Member Wyden and I intend to reintroduce the Senate Finance Committee’s package shortly and we invite all members of this Committee to join us as co-sponsors as we move the bill to the President’s desk for his signature. “The PBM process undertaken by this Committee should serve as a model for other reforms. Health care integration can produce efficiencies, but too much consolidation can result in monopolistic powerhouses that block innovative disruptors, limit market competition and constrain consumer choice. “We must also seek to expand care access points to avoid costly treatment delays. Establishing long-term telehealth flexibility would allow patients to receive care in lower-cost settings. We should reform our clinician payment system to bolster the workforce, increase reimbursement stability for independent practitioners and allow a wider variety of providers to deliver services. “Swift coverage of cutting-edge innovations and an emphasis on preventive measures can reduce higher long-term costs. “We cannot transform our broken health care system overnight, but this Committee has a proven record of bipartisan success. Today’s hearing is the first step in building the foundation for reform. “Thank you, again, to our witnesses.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/finance-committee-advances-social-security-ustr-hhs-nominations,"Finance Committee Advances Social Security, USTR, HHS Nominations",2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.—The U.S. Senate Finance Committee advanced the nominations of Arjun Mody to be Deputy Commissioner of Social Security by a vote of 14-13; Jeffrey Goettman to be a Deputy United States Trade Representative by a vote of 17-10; Julie Callahan to be Chief Agricultural Negotiator at the Office of the USTR by a vote of 17-10; and Thomas (March) Bell to be Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) by a vote of 14-13. Following the vote, Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) issued the statement below: “I commend the Committee’s action and congratulate each nominee. “As a veteran of Capitol Hill, Mr. Mody is well equipped to assist Commissioner Bisignano in administering the programs overseen by the Social Security Administration. “Mr. Goettman’s experience at the Export-Import Bank will serve him well as he ensures American interests are protected abroad. “Dr. Callahan’s endorsement by over 80 trade associations representing farmers, ranchers and food manufacturers testifies to her ability to promote U.S. agriculture in international negotiations. “Mr. Bell will play a critical role in ensuring that Medicare and Medicaid are protected from inefficiency and fraud. “I am confident in each nominee’s ability to serve Americans’ best interest and implement the President’s agenda and look forward to their confirmation by the full Senate.” Executive session information can be found here. Read Chairman Crapo’s full statement at the nomination hearing here, and his statement at the executive session here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://fulcher.house.gov/2025/11/18/id-55f2ca8a-615a-4dd7-bc61-fd33e9170caa/,"RESCHEDULED, Votes Called: November Telephone Town Hall",2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,ID,Russ Fulcher,F000469,fulcher.house.gov,fulcher,https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"CONTACT:Christianné Allen, Christianne.Allen@mail.house.gov WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher’s telephone town hall set to take place today, November 18, is being rescheduled due to votes being called in the House of Representatives. A new date and time will be announced soon. Congressman Fulcher has hosted a series of successful telephone town halls reaching thousands across the First Congressional District and providing an accessible forum for Idahoans to ask questions and share their priorities. ###",1,2026-04-17T05:47:03Z,2026-04-17T05:48:33Z https://fulcher.house.gov/2025/11/18/id-fb9e7753-0741-4407-83c2-6737ac8230bf/,Fulcher Votes to Release Epstein Files,2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,ID,Russ Fulcher,F000469,fulcher.house.gov,fulcher,https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher (Idaho-01) issued the following statement after the House passage of H.R. 4405, the Epstein Files Transparency Act: “Today, I voted to support the release of the Epstein files,” said Congressman Fulcher. “Since day one, I have been clear that this needed to be done. As we move forward, I will continue to support the work being led by the House Oversight Committee to deliver continued and complete transparency to the American People, while also providing victims with necessary privacy protections. To date, these efforts spearheaded by Chairman Comer have led to the release of approximately 65,000 documents from the Department of Justice and Epstein’s estate. It’s time to hold every individual who preyed on vulnerable young people fully accountable.” ###",1,2026-04-17T05:47:03Z,2026-04-17T05:48:33Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/24-idahoans-receive-crapos-spirit-of-freedom-award,24 Idahoans Receive Crapo's Spirit of Freedom Award,2025-11-14,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo announced the names of 24 Idahoans who are the recipients of his 2025 Spirit of Freedom: Idaho Veteran Service Award. The honorees--10 veterans and 14 volunteers--were presented with the award at local ceremonies across the state. The Senator created the award in 2002 to recognize the invaluable contributions of Idaho veterans and those who volunteer in service to veterans. Since the award’s creation 23 years ago, 424 Spirit of Freedom Awards have been bestowed. ""I am honored to recognize these remarkable individuals for their extraordinary service to our nation and Idaho's veterans,"" said Crapo. ""We extend our deepest gratitude to the veterans who bravely served our nation with honor and to the volunteers who continue to serve them with unwavering dedication. Their spirit of service inspires us and upholds the values our nation's veterans fought to protect. Each award recipient is a reflection of the incredible impact one individual can have on their community."" Submissions for the 2026 Spirit of Freedom Service Award can be made by contacting Courtney Lehosit in Crapo’s Boise office. The following biographies for each of the recipients highlight their significant contributions to our country and its veterans. Veterans: Lanny R. Ames, Kimberly: American Legion Post 76 of Kimberly nominated Lanny Ames, a Cold War and Vietnam era Veteran. Lanny earned the rank of Master Sergeant and many honors during his extensive U.S. Air Force career. They include the Air Force Commendation Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, Air Force Good Conduct Medal and Outstanding Unit recognitions. His service included assignments with the Strategic Air Command for 20 years, and numerous other locations, including Idaho, England, Maine, Alaska and Nebraska. Lanny has also served in many leadership roles with the American Legion and dedicated 22 years to serving as a reservist with Idaho Fish and Game. Lanny and his wife, Naomi, have two daughters and one son, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is deeply proud of his family, many of whom have also served in the U.S. Air Force. Larry Auman, Idaho Falls: The Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 972 and American Legion Post 56, both of Idaho Falls, nominated Larry Auman, who served our country as a Machinist Mate 2nd Class in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War. After six years in the Navy, Larry worked for more than 40 years in the nuclear industry as a health physicist in nuclear power operations at U.S. Department of Energy facilities across the United States. Since retiring from the Idaho National Laboratory, Larry has dedicated considerable time to supporting veterans and various veterans service organizations. This includes his responsibility for finances, minutes, correspondence, member notifications and overall leadership of multiple veterans service organizations. An example of his service includes his extensive work to make sure veterans are honored through service recognition on their graves. Larry is known as someone with a deep commitment to supporting veterans and their families. Jason Brown, Lewiston: The Idaho State Veterans Home-Lewiston nominated Jason Brown, who served as a Sergeant in the U.S. Marine Corps, earning many recognitions for his service. Jason continues to serve his community and its veterans. Jason is a Corporal in the Nez Perce County Sheriff’s Department and supervises several patrol deputies as well as serves as an operator for the local SWAT team. Jason uses his role as a patrol deputy to speak with veterans in crisis and connect them with resources. He also gives generously of his time volunteering with several entities such as Toys for Tots, Courageous Survival, assisting with the Marine Corps Birthday Ball and spending time with veterans at the Guys' Coffee Group at the veterans home. Jason is known for selflessly prioritizing his fellow veterans and engaging within the community on multiple levels while on and off duty. Tammy Clement, Meridian: The Department of Idaho Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) nominated Tammy Clement. In 2010, Tammy retired from a 27-year career of service with the U.S. Air Force and Idaho Air National Guard. She served in support of Operation Noble Eagle and earned the rank of Senior Master Sergeant and many recognitions, including the Air Force Achievement Medal with one device and Air Force Commendation Medal with one device. Additionally, her significant efforts in support of her fellow veterans include starting, organizing and equipping the official VFW District 5 Honor Guard. Tammy has organized and assisted with more than 800 events and activities, dedicated more than 1,700 hours and traveled more than 15,000 miles in giving generously to veterans. Tammy’s husband Michael Clement also retired from the Idaho Air Force National Guard and assists with events as an active VFW member. Richard Lee Falardeau, Lewiston: The Idaho State Veterans Home-Lewiston nominated Richard Lee Falardeau, who served more than 20 years in the U.S. Navy and U.S. Air Force. He served as a Flight Engineer on the Fairchild C-123 during the Vietnam War and later transitioned to the C-141 Starlifter, where his skill and precision helped carry out complex global missions. In his final years of military service, Richard was selected for the elite C-141 Embassy Run Flight Team, supporting U.S. embassies worldwide. Richard earned the rank of Master Sergeant and recognitions that include four Meritorious Service Award ribbons and one Defense Meritorious Service Medal for exceptional performance and valor. After his military career, Richard brought his ingenuity to an Exxon Refinery, where he worked for 15 years as a technician. Richard and his wife, Bonnie, who passed away in June, were married 64 years. They raised three children who carry forward his legacy of honor, curiosity and dedication. Richard’s daughter, Felecia, wrote, “From the oceans to the skies to innovations on the ground, Master Sergeant Richard Falardeau embodies courage, devotion, and the unwavering spirit of freedom that this award so proudly honors.” William (Billy) Lawson, Boise: The Idaho Veterans Assistance League (IVAL) nominated Billy Lawson, a graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy who served as a Captain in the U.S. Air Force. During his nine years of service, he earned many recognitions and served overseas including as a Construction Flight Commander at the Air Force Central Command in the Middle East. Billy and his wife, Tori, thankfully, chose to reside in Idaho, where he is a medical student at the Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine (ICOM). Billy was a greatly valued volunteer in the canteen at the Idaho State Veterans Home-Boise, consistently showing up with warmth, reliability and a deep sense of purpose. In addition to recruiting other ICOM students to enrich activities throughout the home, Billy brought his golden retriever, Stanley, who made a lasting impact, providing comfort, joy and companionship. Holly Leonard, Boise: The Idaho State Veterans Home-Boise nominated Holly Leonard, who served our country for more than a decade in the U.S. Air Force Nurse Corps and Air Force Nurse Corps Reserves. She earned the rank of Major and multiple honors for her service that took her across our country, including assignments in Texas, Ohio and Arizona. Her career after her military service included nursing positions in orthopedic surgery, IBM’s Employee Medical Department, Tucson and Scottsdale School Districts, and as a CPR and First Aid Instructor. Holly has also dedicated her time to volunteering for the Red Cross, Hospice, Kenya Mission Trips and at the Idaho State Veterans Home. Holly met her husband at the Luke Air Force Base, where he served as a flight surgeon for an F-16 squadron. Vic Markell, Kimberly: American Legion Post 7 of Twin Falls nominated Vic Markell, who served in the U.S. Air Force as an aircraft mechanic during the Vietnam War and continues to serve his community. After his military service, Vic worked for BASF for 30 years. He has been an American Legion member for 55 years and has dedicated considerable time to helping with food preparation and cooking for veterans for the post’s monthly meetings and quarterly breakfasts. He also plans and cooks for other events, such as the Veterans Day chili feed, and helps with many post projects. Additionally, he assists with charity work for his church. Carson Wesley Spear, Star: The Warhawk Air Museum nominated Carson Spear, who served as a platoon leader in the U.S. Army in Southern Baghdad deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom II. He earned the rank of Captain and many honors that include the Bronze Star and Purple Heart. Carson has been the museum’s Executive Director since 2023. He oversees numerous events and projects honoring veterans, including the Kilroy Coffee, preserving veterans’ histories, producing an airshow and the opening of the new Global War on Terror Expansion. Carson, who grew up in a family that honors veterans, went to UC Davis before being commissioned as a second lieutenant in Field Artillery in 2001. Carson and his wife, Erin, have two children and many animals, and he is also involved in the veterans community as a Mission43 Leaders Fellow, Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and American Legion member. Gary Williams, Post Falls: The Idaho State Veterans Home-Post Falls nominated Gary Williams, who dedicated more than 20 years to serving in the U.S. Marines. He earned the rank of Gunnery Sergeant and maintained aviation search radars in both the Vietnam War and Desert Storm before retiring from the military in 1992. Many generations of Gary’s family have also served in our nation’s military. After his service, Gary went on to work in training—using his skills to help others. Gary, a father to two daughters and one son, enjoys spending time with his family in north Idaho that also includes grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Kady Aamot shared, “Gary warmly invites many, and shares in comradery in nearly every season of life. Whether it’s a friendly face in the hall, a great idea or suggestion, or welcoming those around him—Gary displays bravery and honors bravery in those around him.” Volunteers: Eva Ackerman, Pocatello: Bannock County Veterans Services nominated Eva Ackerman, who enjoys giving back to the veterans who have given up everything to serve our country. Eva has assisted veterans since 2010. She said it makes her heart happy to know she was able to do a little bit for someone. She volunteers with a number of organizations including the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 4, Run to Remember with the Field of Heroes, Bannock County Veterans Memorial Association among others, helping coordinate lunches and dinners held at the Memorial Building and much more. Eva and her husband, Larry, are known for always being willing to help. Eva is part of a family dedicated to military service. She enjoys it when the various organizations come together to work toward the same mission, and she shared, “I’ve met several veterans who are very good. I love to find the good in people. . . .” Allen (Al) Arnold, Idaho Falls: Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2146 of Idaho Falls nominated Al Arnold, who has been involved in area veterans activities for more than 20 years. Al, a U.S. Navy retiree, has participated in more than 1,700 graveside honors for veterans, served in many capacities in veterans service organizations and is known for always being willing to help veterans and their families. He is a critical leader in the Bonneville Memorial Team and with the War Bonnet Round Up American Legion fundraising effort. He and his late wife were honored as Rodeo Volunteers of the Year. Al serves others for the friendship and to give back to his country and fellow servicemembers who have given him so much in his life. Al retired as a Lieutenant in 1990 after more than 25 years and earning many honors for his distinguished service. He served on a guided missile destroyer, fleet ballistic missile submarine and fast attack submarine and as an instructor and supervisor for training of Nuclear Propulsion Plant Operators at the Naval Reactors Facility in Idaho. Mark A. Arnstam, Boise: The United States Submarine Veterans Incorporated (USSVI) Boise Base Submarine Veterans nominated Mark Arnstam, a retired U.S. Navy Submarine Veteran who helps his fellow veterans navigate the process of receiving an MRI at the Boise Veterans Administration Medical Center. Mark is recognized for his lifetime of service to others and his experience as a veteran contributing to his ability to help veterans and their families navigate the Veterans Administration. During Mark’s 25 years of military service, he served on three submarines and qualified as a nuclear Machinist Mate, welder and a diver. He retired as a Lieutenant Commander. Mark has since given more than 5,400 hours over the past 10 years to assisting veterans. Patient care, safety and privacy are of utmost importance to him, and he enjoys easing anxiety, apprehension and fear of the confined MRI machine. Robert (Bob) L. Cook, Boise: The Idaho State Veterans Home-Boise nominated Bob Cook, a volunteer serving veterans for roughly 37 years. Bob’s twin brother Bill’s service in the U.S. Air Force inspired Bob’s efforts to assist veterans. As a proud representative of the Gear Jammers Car Club, Bob has become a cherished figure in the veteran home’s community. Each spring, Bob organizes a car show that brings joy and camaraderie to veterans. Bob enjoys listening to veterans’ stories about cars they remember. JoAnn Daron shared, “The event is more than just a display of classic cars—it’s a heartfelt tribute to those who’ve served, and a highlight of the year that we all eagerly anticipate. . . . His efforts remind us of the power of community and the importance of honoring those who’ve given so much.” Holly Harrison and Tim Hennessey, Boise: SEAL Future Foundation, Inc. nominated Holly Harrison and Tim Hennessey, a dynamic couple who lead the SEAL Future Foundation’s Forward Operating Base in Boise. They have built a welcoming community to assist Navy Sea, Air and Land (SEAL)s with transitioning into civilian life through events, gatherings and other opportunities to connect with one another and build trusted local relationships. Tim and Holly are recognized for modeling quiet professionalism and stewardship, and ensuring every gathering, introduction and program honors the trust placed in them as they help veterans and their families thrive in their next chapters. Tim and Holly are described as proud members of the Boise community, and Leah Crosby shared, “Because of Tim and Holly’s efforts, dozens of Navy SEALs and their families in Idaho have found the connection, purpose and support they need to live healthy, meaningful lives beyond their military service.” Cheri Honas, Pocatello: Bannock County Veterans Services nominated Cheri Honas, whose military family inspired her six years of service to veterans through the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 1. Cheri loves meeting new people and the feeling that God gave her the time to give back. She cannot think of a better way to use her time than dedicating it to serving veterans. Cheri is known as someone who is always willing to step up with whatever veterans need. She helps with immediate, short-term needs and helps coordinate the luncheons and dinners held at the Veterans Memorial Building. Cheri is a mother of three, grandmother and great-grandmother, who is a goer and loves to bake. Cheri said, “God looks down on all of us and smiles when he sees us making someone happy. He especially loves his veterans. . . .” Amanda Knight, Boise: Mission43 nominated Amanda Knight, who draws from her personal experience as a military spouse and daughter of a veteran to help veterans and their families navigate higher education, training certification and other opportunities. Amanda’s approach blends mentorship, resource connection and motivational coaching. Dan McGurkin wrote, “Amanda’s unique strength lies in her compassion and perseverance; she has talked participants through moments of self-doubt and helped them rediscover their confidence. Several members credit her steady encouragement as the reason they completed programs they once thought were beyond their reach.” Amanda’s experience balancing family, career, deployments and transitions inspired her work to ensure military families do not have to navigate these challenges alone. In 2025 alone, Amanda guided nearly 500 members through their educational journeys. Lynn Leggat, Pocatello: Bannock County Veterans Services nominated Lynn Leggat, who has volunteered helping veterans for the past three years. Lynn’s husband, William Leggat, served in the U.S. Air Force. After William passed away, Lynn was guided through prayer to serve veterans. She started out helping with steak dinners at the American Legion after hearing about a dinner on the radio and showing up to help. She is now a staple at any luncheon or dinner, has become the Chaplin for her organization and plans to also serve at the veterans home. She primarily assists veterans through the American Legion Auxiliary, but also she assists with Amvets and other organizations. The list of projects Lynn assists with is lengthy and also includes assisting with the Field of Heroes Information Booth, 9/11 Commemoration, Pearl Harbor Remembrance, Veterans Day Luncheon and Veterans Day Parade. Lynn loves being of service. Tiffany Sedorus, King Hill: The Boise U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Regional Medical Center (VAMC) nominated Tiffany Sedorus, who served in the U.S. Army’s 82nd Airborne Division in Operation Iraqi Freedom and gives generously of her time to fellow veterans. Tiffany assists at the Boise VAMC and Mountain Home Community Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC). She consistently volunteers in the VAMC’s inpatient psychiatric unit teaching the “Taking Charge of My Life and Health” class that she has also taken to veterans in Mountain Home. Tiffany, who is married and has dogs and horses, comes from a family rooted in military service. She devotes her Saturdays to helping some of the most vulnerable veterans, and she cherishes hearing their stories, relating to them and learning from their experiences. Serena Young wrote, “She is driven by a desire to demonstrate that there is life beyond mental and general health struggles.” Delores Silcott, Filer: American Legion Post 7 of Twin Falls nominated Delores Silcott, who has given generously of her time over the past 18 years to work in the Post’s bingo hall every Sunday. For the past 20 years, Delores has been an active member of the Post’s auxiliary. In addition to managing the Post’s bingo program, Delores helps with Christmas programs, poppies programs and voting programs for veterans. Delores’ husband was a veteran, and she just wants to help and enjoys working with and meeting new people. Brian English notes that Delores has only taken one vacation from the bingo program over the years she has run the program, and she is always there early to set up and stays late to clean up. She just has the desire to help veterans. Tony Speer, Caldwell: The Warhawk Air Museum nominated Tony Speer, who started out riding his bike to volunteer at the museum when he was in the fourth grade. He then swept the floors and gave tours and has since helped build the museum’s information technology systems. Tony’s family has a rich history of military service. His father was an Army veteran who passed away when Tony was six years old. Tony, who helps manage servers and software for St. Luke’s and pilots his own airplane, credits his experience at the museum with helping him to get to where he is now. He shared, “The museum has grown to feel like a second home and the people there a second family for me.” Carson Spear described Tony as a quiet professional who has devoted more than 23 years, often going above and beyond, to support the work at the museum. Carson wrote, “Tony always has an excellent attitude, works incredibly hard to honor veterans, and we appreciate him so much.” Teri Weissrock-Engler, Boise: The Idaho Veterans Assistance League nominated Teri Weissrock-Engler, who was inspired to support veterans in her community to honor her late husband in a meaningful way. Teri shared that being surrounded by powerful examples of service and sacrifice, including family members, inspired her volunteer work assisting veterans. Her husband, Arthur Engler, earned the Bronze Star for his service in the U.S. Army on Omaha Beach in World War II. She is a regular volunteer in the canteen at the Idaho State Veterans Home in Boise and assists with a range of events at the home. She also helps the Idaho Foodbank with community outreach and support. Teri, who greatly values the time she spends with veterans, wrote, “These moments have created a deep sense of community for me—while also reminding me of the incredible sacrifices these veterans have made for our freedom.” Gary Wiester, Post Falls: The Idaho State Veterans Home-Post Falls, where Gary has volunteered for more than a year, nominated Gary. Gary is characterized as an outstanding volunteer willing to step in where needed—from building rapport with residents of the home to mentoring new volunteers. Gary served two years in the U.S. Army, raised his family in southwest Washington and built a post-military career in construction management, where leadership, teamwork and attention to detail became second nature. He also volunteered for more than 12 years as an assistant to the Chaplain and Sergeants at the Kootenai County Jail and served with Kootenai County Search and Rescue. Kady Aamot shared that Gary’s military, professional and personal background help him connect with others in a meaningful way. She wrote, “Whether it’s through a warm conversation, helping a resident get to an event, or just showing up with a smile, his steady presence and humble service have made a lasting impact on the community at the Post Falls Veterans Home.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-25-colleagues-applaud-trump-admins-exclusion-of-unrwa-from-gaza-peace-process,"Crapo, 25 Colleagues Applaud Trump Admin’s Exclusion of UNRWA from Gaza Peace Process",2025-11-14,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) joined U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska) and 24 colleagues in sending a letter applauding President Trump and U.S. Department of State Secretary Mark Rubio for excluding the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) from the Gaza peace process, citing UNRWA’s ties to Hamas. “As discussions on Gaza’s future continue, we must avoid repeating the mistakes that empowered the terror group to take hold in the first place,” the lawmakers wrote. “For decades, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) has operated in Gaza, yet extensive reporting, investigations, and intelligence assessments documented systemic infiltration of the agency by Hamas and other U.S.-designated foreign terrorist organizations. “In response to these alarming findings, the United States rightfully suspended funding to UNRWA and Israel barred the agency from operating on its territory,” the lawmakers continued. “These steps were necessary because UNRWA has shown it cannot maintain neutrality or operate without being co-opted by terrorists. During your recent visit to Israel, you reaffirmed UNRWA’s ties to terrorism, describing the agency as ‘a subsidiary of Hamas’ and making clear that it ‘is not going to play any role’ in the delivery of aid to Gaza. Reinstating UNRWA would only recreate the very conditions that allowed Hamas to entrench itself and exert control in Gaza.” “We strongly urge the administration to ensure that UNRWA play no role in any efforts to stabilize, govern, and rebuild Gaza,” the lawmakers concluded. “Instead, we encourage the United States to work with vetted international partners, trusted regional actors, and nongovernmental organizations that are demonstrably free of terrorist influence and committed to transparency, accountability, and peace."" Additional signers included Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Steve Daines (R-Montana), Ted Budd (R-North Carolina), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming), Tommy Tuberville (R-Alabama), Bill Hagerty (R-Tennessee), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi), Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas), Tim Scott (R-South Carolina), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), John Boozman (R-Arkansas), Tim Sheehy (R-Montana), Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina), Deb Fischer (R-Nebraska), Shelley Moore Capito (R-West Virginia), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), James Lankford (R-Oklahoma), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Dave McCormick (R-Pennsylvania), Katie Britt (R-Alabama) and John Hoeven (R-North Dakota.). Full text of the letter can be found here and below: Dear Secretary Rubio, We write in support of the Trump administration’s efforts to advance lasting stability in Gaza and enduring security for Israel. President Trump’s leadership has been instrumental in negotiating and maintaining the ceasefire agreement and in securing the ongoing release of hostages. It is vital to continue applying maximum pressure on Hamas to release the remaining hostages still held in Gaza. We also commend the administration's continued commitment to ensuring that Hamas is fully disarmed and can never rule again in the territory. As discussions on Gaza’s future continue, we must avoid repeating the mistakes that empowered the terror group to take hold in the first place. For decades, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) has operated in Gaza, yet extensive reporting, investigations, and intelligence assessments documented systemic infiltration of the agency by Hamas and other U.S.-designated foreign terrorist organizations. At least twelve UNRWA employees took part in the Hamas-led October 7 attacks, and roughly ten percent of UNRWA’s Gaza staff have ties to terrorist groups, with many more having close relatives involved in these organizations. Since October 7, Hamas has repeatedly stolen the agency’s aid and supplies, weapons have been found in its schools, tunnel infrastructure has been uncovered in or near its facilities, and its buildings were even used to hold hostages. Long before the war, UNRWA’s curriculum was already known to radicalize Palestinian youth by promoting antisemitism and glorifying terrorism. In response to these alarming findings, the United States rightfully suspended funding to UNRWA and Israel barred the agency from operating on its territory. These steps were necessary because UNRWA has shown it cannot maintain neutrality or operate without being co-opted by terrorists. During your recent visit to Israel, you reaffirmed UNRWA’s ties to terrorism, describing the agency as “a subsidiary of Hamas” and making clear that it “is not going to play any role” in the delivery of aid to Gaza. Reinstating UNRWA would only recreate the very conditions that allowed Hamas to entrench itself and exert control in Gaza. We strongly urge the administration to ensure that UNRWA play no role in any efforts to stabilize, govern, and rebuild Gaza. Instead, we encourage the United States to work with vetted international partners, trusted regional actors, and nongovernmental organizations that are demonstrably free of terrorist influence and committed to transparency, accountability, and peace. We appreciate your leadership and stand prepared to work with the Trump administration to support Gaza reconstruction efforts and ensure lasting security for Israel. Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://fulcher.house.gov/2025/11/12/id-6c5135ca-2382-488c-8707-37c590d412ce/,Fulcher to Host November Telephone Town Hall,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,ID,Russ Fulcher,F000469,fulcher.house.gov,fulcher,https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher (Idaho-01) announced his next telephone town hall will take place on November 18, 2025, at 6 p.m. MT, 5 p.m. PT. The event serves as an opportunity for residents of Idaho’s 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. Congressman Fulcher hosted a successful telephone town hall in October, reaching thousands of Idahoans across the First Congressional District. ###",1,2026-04-17T05:47:03Z,2026-04-17T05:48:33Z https://fulcher.house.gov/2025/11/12/id-a0ce7239-0b7d-418f-b636-ad2c0ad8210c/,Fulcher on Vote to Reopen Federal Government,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,ID,Russ Fulcher,F000469,fulcher.house.gov,fulcher,https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher (Idaho-01) issued the following statement after voting in favor of the Senate Amendment to H.R. 5371, the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2026. “For over 40 days, Senate Democrats utilized the destruction of a federal government shutdown to politically grandstand and demand $1.5 trillion in new spending, a staggering request for a nation $38 trillion in debt. “Regardless of the pain the shutdown inflicted on families, Veterans, and our troops, the Senate minority persisted in holding the government hostage unless they received taxpayer-funded healthcare for noncitizens and the repeal of much-needed reforms enacted through H.R. 1—reforms that restored accountability in our federal healthcare programs and, as confirmed by the Congressional Budget Office (CBO), are projected to lower premiums for eligible Americans. “Thankfully, their politically motivated tactics proved unsuccessful. Tonight’s funding extension maintains the original position I supported over a month ago—to keep the government working for the American People and to cut wasteful Washington spending by returning Congress to regular order.” ***",1,2026-04-17T05:47:03Z,2026-04-17T05:48:33Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-statement-on-senate-vote-to-reopen-government,Crapo Statement on Senate Vote to Reopen Government,2025-11-10,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo, Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, released the following statement after the Senate advanced a measure to reopen the federal government. The measure provides full-year appropriations for Agriculture, Legislative Branch and Military Construction-Veterans Affairs programs for the remainder of Fiscal Year 2026 and contains a Continuing Resolution for the remainder of the federal government through January 2026: “I voted again today to reopen and fund the federal government. The unserious political games by Senate Democrats placed an undue burden on our servicemembers, small businesses, federal employees and communities that rely on federal resources--all of which could have been avoided. “The three appropriations bills we also advanced support our veterans, invest in rural communities, protect our national security and contain needed cost-savings measures. We must continue bipartisan work on the remaining appropriations bills before the January 2026 deadline. “Insurance premiums are skyrocketing because our health care system is broken. Simply extending the temporary Biden COVID bonuses, which account for only four percentage points of the coming premium increases, is not a solution. I remain committed to tackling the root causes of rising health care costs, rather than masking them with more unsustainable spending.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-leads-more-than-100-members-of-congress-to-reaffirm-support-for-cdfi-fund,Crapo Leads More Than 100 Members of Congress to Reaffirm Support for CDFI Fund,2025-10-23,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and U.S. Representative Young Kim (R-California) sent a bicameral letter to U.S. Department of the Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Office of Management and Budget Director Russell Vought reaffirming support for the Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Fund and urging the Administration to continue carrying out the statutory obligations of the Fund, emphasizing its elimination will negatively impact the economy long-term. An additional 103 Republican Members of Congress signed the letter. “CDFIs play an important role in supporting economic development in rural, tribal and other underserved communities in our states,” the letter reads. “They enhance the viability of community development projects, especially in rural areas, by offering flexible financing tools such as longer loan terms and interest-only repayment periods.” “It is unclear how these programs will continue to operate if the CDFI Fund’s obligations cease to function,” the letter continues. “We stand ready to work with the Administration to make additional improvements at the Fund to ensure it fulfills its purpose of serving communities left behind by the federal government and the traditional finance sector,” the letter concludes. The letter also highlights certain programs administered by the Fund, including: The New Markets Tax Credit program, which has created over one million jobs since the credit’s creation and was made permanent under the President’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA); and The Capital Magnet Fund, which scales housing investments to build new housing and pairs with the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit, also permanently expanded by the OBBBA, to address the nation’s housing shortage. Text of the letter is available HERE. Senator Crapo is the co-chair of the Senate Community Development Finance Caucus. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/idaho-elected-officials-request-briefing-on-mountain-home-afb-joint-training-announcement,Idaho Elected Officials Request Briefing on Mountain Home AFB Joint Training Announcement,2025-10-17,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--Idaho’s U.S. Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch, U.S. Representative Mike Simpson and Governor Brad Little sent a letter to Secretary of War Pete Hegseth requesting a briefing on the recent announcement of a joint training agreement for Qatari troops at the Mountain Home Air Force Base (AFB). “In the interest of informing our constituents, maintaining open lines of communication, and fostering closer federal and state collaboration regarding this training squadron, we would like the Department to provide more information about the plans and intentions of this mission now that it appears to be finalized,” wrote the officials. “We request that you provide a briefing to the Idaho Congressional Delegation, as well as for the Governor of Idaho and state legislators potentially impacted by the agreement, in Boise on the details of this agreement.” The Idaho officials requested additional information about the agreement, including: Given the technological capabilities of the Mountain Home AFB range complex, what measures will be implemented to safeguard against any compromise to our national security? What screening, intelligence, or vetting processes are in place to ensure no trainees have ties to hostile or extremist organizations? Are there any specific security concerns for the surrounding communities and for U.S. military personnel stationed at Mountain Home AFB? Is there a long-term plan to convert Mountain Home AFB into a multi-national training facility for foreign allies? How many Qatari personnel will be involved in the training mission? How long will they be deployed to Idaho? Will families be allowed to accompany Qatari personnel, and what restrictions, if any, will be placed on their travel? Is there a total cost to American taxpayers to house, train, and feed the foreign military personnel covered by this agreement? Read the full letter here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://fulcher.house.gov/2025/10/17/id-2f76a0ec-d324-4128-baf7-01489834f30b/,Fulcher Announces October Telephone Town Hall Details,2025-10-17,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,ID,Russ Fulcher,F000469,fulcher.house.gov,fulcher,https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher (Idaho-01) announced his next telephone town hall will take place on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at 6 p.m. MT, 5 p.m. PT. The event serves as an opportunity for residents of Idaho’s 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. Congressman Fulcher hosted a successful telephone town hall in September, reaching over twelve thousand Idahoans across the First Congressional District. The event covered topics ranging from political violence to fire suppression, nuclear power, and public lands. ###",1,2026-06-27T20:01:11Z,2026-06-27T22:31:14Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/10/10/2025/crapo-risch-support-americas-armed-forces,"Crapo, Risch Support America’s Armed Forces",2025-10-10,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch (both R-Idaho) voted in support of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), fulfilling Congress’s constitutional duty to “provide for the common defense.” The FY 2026 NDAA strengthens America’s military capabilities, bolsters national security and includes key provisions important to the state of Idaho. The legislation supports our troops and their families through well-deserved pay increases. “The most critical component of the annual NDAA is ensuring our military is prepared to face off against and mitigate threats from our adversaries both at home and abroad,” said Crapo. “The Senate’s passage of this important legislation puts us one step closer to providing for the common defense.” “This year’s NDAA ensures our military remains mission-ready, can protect and defend our nation, and provides servicemembers with a well-deserved pay raise – if only Democrats would end this government shutdown,” said Risch. “This legislation prioritizes recruitment of the best candidates to defend America, keep the border secure, and strengthen our national security.” Senators Crapo and Risch secured several critical provisions for the state of Idaho in the NDAA that will: Enhance U.S. nuclear energy leadership globally and combat China and Russia’s growing influence on international nuclear energy development; Crack down on the import of deadly fentanyl and its precursors flowing from China to Mexico and across our borders; Support the Idaho National Laboratory for tristructural isotropic (TRISO) fuel development; Strengthen the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States’ (CFIUS) ability to review foreign land purchases near sensitive military, intelligence and national laboratory sites; Reduce regulatory barriers to new and affordable housing; and Improve the Community Development Financial Institutions Fund to enhance transparency and performance. The FY 2026 NDAA also: Provides a 3.8 percent pay raise for servicemembers; Supports the development of the Golden Dome missile defense system; Authorizes investments to boost our naval fleet; Removes diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) provisions; Prohibits men from playing in women’s sports at military service academies; Repeals or amends more than 100 burdensome and outdated provisions to streamline Pentagon innovation; Restore munitions and readiness for all military services; and Expand and improve military recruitment. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/finance-committee-advances-treasury-irs-nominations,"Finance Committee Advances Treasury, IRS Nominations",2025-10-08,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.—The U.S. Senate Finance Committee advanced the nominations of Jonathan Greenstein to be a Deputy Under Secretary of the Treasury by a vote of 14-13; Donald Korb to be Chief Counsel for the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and an Assistant General Counsel in the Department of the Treasury by a vote of 15-12; and Derek Theurer to be a Deputy Under Secretary of the Treasury by a vote of 14-13. Following the vote, Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) issued the statement below: “I commend the Committee’s action and congratulate each nominee. Mr. Greenstein will face the important task of restoring key international organizations like the International Monetary Fund to their original missions. Mr. Korb’s previous experience as Chief Counsel of the IRS will equip him to hit the ground running when he returns to the role and to ensure the tax code is enforced fairly and impartially. As a veteran of Capitol Hill, I am sure Mr. Theurer will keep Congress well-informed about Treasury’s work as the Department continues to implement our recent tax cuts for working families. I am confident in each nominee’s ability to serve Americans’ best interest and implement the President’s agenda and look forward to their confirmation by the full Senate.” Executive session information can be found here. Read Chairman Crapo’s full statement at the nomination hearings here and here, and his statement at the executive session here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-statement-on-senate-confirmation-of-idaho-nominees,Crapo Statement on Senate Confirmation of Idaho Nominees,2025-10-07,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) issued the following statement after the Senate confirmed, by a vote of 51-47, four nominees from Idaho for various positions at the federal level. “The four Idahoans confirmed by the Senate today are intimately aware of the many commonsense needs of our state. Their expertise and knowledge will promote the opinions and on-the-ground experiences of Idaho’s constituents at the federal level. I look forward to working with them in these new capacities.” The four confirmed nominees include: Michael Boren to be Under Secretary of Agriculture for Natural Resources and Environment; Alex Adams to be Assistant Secretary for Family Support, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; Bart McKay Davis to be United States Attorney for the District of Idaho for the term of 4 years; and Brandon Judd to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Republic of Chile. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://fulcher.house.gov/2025/10/02/id-828bce9b-475c-4053-9f58-fe6fd18e9aa5/,"Fulcher: My Offices Remain Open, Despite Federal Government Shutdown",2025-10-02,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,ID,Russ Fulcher,F000469,fulcher.house.gov,fulcher,https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher issued the following statement informing constituents across Idaho’s First Congressional District that his offices in Coeur d’Alene, Lewiston, Meridian, and Washington, D.C., remain open during the government shutdown. “On October 1, 2025, funding for many federal government operations lapsed. While I supported a bipartisan package passed by the House that would extend current funding until November 21, 2025, allowing both Chambers to proceed in completing Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations bills through regular budget order, that legislation did not pass the Senate,” said Congressman Fulcher. “However, despite the temporary federal government shutdown, my offices remain open. We are here to serve the People of Idaho, and that work will not stop.” If constituents need assistance with a federal agency or would like more information on the shutdown, they are encouraged to visit the webpage here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-congratulates-travis-hill-on-nomination-to-lead-fdic,Crapo Congratulates Travis Hill on Nomination to Lead FDIC,2025-10-01,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Chairman of the U.S. Senate Finance Committee and former Chairman of the U.S. Senate Banking Committee, today applauded the nomination of Travis Hill to serve as the Chair of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). “President Trump made an excellent choice nominating Travis Hill to permanently lead the FDIC. Travis has a deep understanding of financial services policy and in his current role as acting FDIC Chairman, he has already proven effective at refocusing the agency’s efforts on core banking practices. In addition to his extensive professional experience, Travis has the diligence and character to effectively lead the agency. I look forward to supporting this well-deserved nomination and am confident he will ensure a safe, sound and competitive banking system for all Americans.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-booker-lead-resolution-to-recognize-september-as-national-prostate-cancer-awareness-month,"Crapo, Booker Lead Resolution to Recognize September as National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month",2025-09-30,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Cory Booker (D-New Jersey) led introduction of a Senate Resolution to recognize September as National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. The resolution also encourages all Americans to take part in efforts to increase early detection, improve treatment and discover more breakthroughs for the disease, which has a 99 percent survival rate if caught in the earliest stage. “Regular health screenings help detect prostate cancer early, when treatment is most effective,” said Senator Crapo. “I hope all men will discuss screening options with their health care provider and educate themselves further about early detection.” “Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among men in the United States and devastates far too many families,” said Senator Booker. “The unanimous passage of this bipartisan resolution represents our shared commitment to investing in advances and raising awareness around prostate cancer, expanding access to treatment, and saving lives.” ""Prostate Cancer Awareness Month is a powerful reminder for men to understand their risk and take proactive steps toward lifesaving early detection and treatment options,"" said Courtney Bugler, President and CEO of ZERO Prostate Cancer. ""We are deeply grateful to Senator Crapo and Senator Booker for their steadfast leadership. Their commitment has been instrumental in advancing awareness, research, and support for men and families impacted by this disease. We are proud to stand alongside them and other champions in Congress, not just during this month, but year-round, as we continue to work together toward a future where no man faces prostate cancer alone.” Additional co-sponsors of the Resolution include Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and Chris Van Hollen (D-Maryland). Prostate cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer-related deaths among men in the United States. One in eight men in the United States will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetimes, and one in 41 men in the United States will die from the disease. Read the full Resolution HERE. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-nelson-embodied-love-of-jesus-christ,Crapo: Nelson Embodied Love of Jesus Christ,2025-09-28,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) celebrated the life of Russell Marion Nelson, President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and issued the following statement on the news of his passing: “A wise and thoughtful man, President Nelson dedicated nearly four decades of leadership service to his faith and the Church--outwardly demonstrating the call to practice Christlike love. His service to others was not limited solely to his faith, but to his country and his fellow soldier, having served as a member of the United States Army Medical Corps. President Nelson was a renowned surgeon and medical researcher, earning many awards and recognitions for his revolutionary and groundbreaking medical procedures. He was an exceptionally kind leader whose lifetime focus centered on embodying the love of Jesus Christ. His was a life well lived, and I join other members of the Church in mourning his passing. My prayers are with President Nelson’s wife, children and many grandchildren as they grieve his loss here on earth, but celebrate in the hope of one day rejoining him in perfect peace in Heaven.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://fulcher.house.gov/2025/09/23/id-8b744691-defa-4e80-8c61-2d946a6b250e/,"Fulcher Joins Amicus Brief Supporting Idaho, West Virginia Title IX SCOTUS Case",2025-09-23,2025,2025-09,Republican,House,ID,Russ Fulcher,F000469,fulcher.house.gov,fulcher,https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher (R-Idaho) has signed on to a bicameral congressional amicus brief being led by U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and Congressman Riley Moore (R-W.Va.) to the U.S. Supreme Court in the cases Little v. Hecox and State of West Virginia v. B.P.J. The brief supports the States of Idaho and West Virginia in defending their laws preserving Title IX protections and prohibiting biological men from participating in women’s sports. Congressman Russ Fulcher said, “When Congress passed Title IX over fifty years ago, the People’s representatives made a commitment to future generations of women and girls that they would have fairness in athletics and equal treatment in education. This common-sense provision is based on a stable understanding of an individual’s biological sex. Since then, Idaho has become the first state in the nation to ban biological males who identify as female from competing against women and girls in sports. This is aligned with federal law, and I am confident the court will see it as such.” “Life isn’t fair, but sports should be. Idaho passed a strong law to uphold Title IX’s intended purpose and prevent biological men from competing in women’s sports,” said Senator Jim Risch. “This amicus brief demonstrates that any attempt by the courts to rewrite Title IX protections throws away decades of progress made by women and jeopardizes their right to fair, equal athletics. Our daughters and granddaughters deserve an even playing field, and Idaho’s law does just that.” “West Virginia passed a law saying men shouldn’t play in women’s sports. This is just common sense – men and women are biologically different. Congress passed Title IX to create a space for women to have the ability to compete in athletics,” said Congressman Riley M. Moore. “I’m proud to lead this bicameral Members of Congress amicus brief with Sen Jim Risch (R-Idaho) in defense of my home state and Idaho’s laws protecting women’s sports at the Supreme Court. Men cannot become women and they certainly shouldn’t be forced to compete together. We have a duty to protect our children and ensure that no more girls are injured by transgender athletes pretending to be women.” “Congress established Title IX to protect women in all levels of education against discrimination on the basis of sex. That protection applies to school sports – where female athletes who have invested significant time and effort to excel should not be made to face unfair competition from biological males in women’s categories,” said Senator Mike Crapo. “Idaho must have the right to stop any efforts that attempt to undermine Title IX.” “As a high school girls’ basketball coach, I have seen firsthand how hard young women compete to succeed. It is absolutely not fair to ask them to step onto the court or field with biological men. That’s why I will always support West Virginia’s Title IX laws – and always be a vocal advocate to protect the integrity of women’s sports,” Senator Jim Justice said. “Women’s sports should remain just that – women’s sports,” Senator Shelley Moore Capito said. “West Virginia has a proud tradition of female athletes who deserve a level playing field, and I’m proud to stand with my colleagues in defending that principle—something I’ve long-championed. Allowing biological males to compete in women’s sports undermines the very fairness and protections Title IX was designed to provide. This amicus brief makes clear that protecting women’s sports is not only common sense, but also the law and I’m confident the Court will come to the same conclusion.” “Title IX has advanced and protected educational opportunities for students for more than fifty years. Unfortunately, radical policies and far-left woke ideology are trying to undo all the progress we have made when it comes to protecting women’s sports. Female athletes should not have to worry about losing scholarships or Olympic medals by having to compete against men,” said Congressman Mike Simpson. “Now more than ever, we need to stand united against this insanity and uphold our promise for the next generation of young girls. Americans are grateful to leaders like Governor Little, as Idaho was the first state in the nation to ban biological males from competing in female athletics. Idaho has set a common-sense standard — one that should now be met across the country.” Additional Background The amicus brief emphasizes that Title IX was written on the basis of sex, not gender identity. The brief states: Neither Title IX nor subsequent legislation mention the concept of “gender identity;” Title IX was enacted under the Spending Clause, which requires clear and unambiguous provisions, none of which say anything about gender identity; and Any attempts to expand upon Title IX protections must come from Congress, not the courts. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://fulcher.house.gov/2025/09/19/id-a018825f-7675-4b28-b32d-6c178a24bec3/,Fulcher on Short-Term Funding Extension,2025-09-19,2025,2025-09,Republican,House,ID,Russ Fulcher,F000469,fulcher.house.gov,fulcher,https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher (Idaho-01) issued the following statement after voting in favor of H.R. 5371, The Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2026. “To comprehensively address the United States’ $37 trillion federal debt, Congress must return to completing all twelve annual appropriations bills through regular order. “For the first time since fiscal year (FY) 2019, both chambers are on track to do just that and are advancing FY 2026 appropriations bills to conference, where the House and Senate negotiate the final version of each bill. “For this reason, I voted yes on today’s clean, short-term funding extension. This measure will keep the government open, allowing Congress to finish next year’s spending bills the right way—through regular order, marking a return to legislative transparency and fiscal responsibility.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/senate-honors-work-of-forensic-scientists,Senate Honors Work of Forensic Scientists,2025-09-18,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--The U.S. Senate unanimously approved a Senate Resolution designating September 14-20, 2025, as National Forensic Science Week. The resolution, introduced by U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Alex Padilla (D-California), and co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and John Cornyn (R-Texas), honors the role forensic science plays in administering justice to crime offenders and exonerating the innocent. “Forensic scientists help to provide truth in the criminal justice system,” said Senator Crapo. “Forensic science frees the innocent and furnishes justice for victims, and the Idaho State Police is a leader in significance of these essential services. It is an honor to acknowledge and recognize their invaluable efforts, as well as those of forensic scientists across the country.” “America’s justice system relies on accurate forensic science,” said Senator Padilla. “That’s why I’ve partnered with Senators Crapo, Cornyn, and Risch in this bipartisan effort to highlight the critical role strong partnerships among forensic science laboratories and federal agencies play in protecting public safety and fighting injustice.” “Forensic science plays an integral role in America’s criminal justice system,” said Senator Risch. “This week, we recognize Idaho’s forensic scientists who work hard to provide closure to victims, convict dangerous criminals, and free the innocent.” “Without robust forensic science, the United States criminal justice system would not be able to function,” said Matthew Gamette, Idaho State Police Forensic Services Laboratory System Director. “We appreciate the support of the United States Senate, and specifically our Senators from Idaho, in recognizing the important contributions of forensic scientists to advance the science in forensic science, provide critical information to law enforcement and the courts, and to bring resolution to victims of crime and their families. We appreciate the support of Congress in funding forensic science providers, including medical examiner and coroner offices, to assist them in being more efficient, effective, and innovative in solving forensic science cases.” Read the full text of the resolution HERE. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-welcomes-fall-2025-interns,Crapo Welcomes Fall 2025 Interns,2025-09-15,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--Five interns joined U.S. Senator Mike Crapo’s (R-Idaho) offices in Washington, D.C., and Boise for the fall 2025 term. “During President Trump’s historic second term, there is much for this fall’s interns to experience in the halls of Congress and in my state offices,” said Crapo. “Through their internships, these bright, young individuals will actively engage with Idaho’s constituents, expand their knowledge of the federal policymaking process and grow hard and soft skills important for their future careers. I am delighted to have them on board for this fall and look forward to their success.” Three interns are serving in the Washington, D.C., Office: Jack Gabrieli is a native of Boise, Idaho, currently in his junior year at Creighton University. He is majoring in Economics. Trevor Rasmussen lives in Lewiston, Idaho, and is a recent graduate from the University of Idaho. He earned his B.A. in international studies/relations. Daisy Aguilar is a native of Idaho Falls, Idaho, and is currently a junior at George Washington University. She is studying political science and marketing, with aspirations of attending law school. Two interns are serving in the Boise Office: Megan Knudson is a native of Santa Clarita, California, currently in her senior year at Boise State University. She is studying political science. Ryan Collins is a native of Kuna, Idaho, and a U.S. Marine Corps veteran. He earned his B.S. in political science from Arizona State University and is interested in attending law school. Crapo hosts interns in his Washington, D.C., office as well as in the various regional offices throughout Idaho. The applications for the spring 2026 term close on October 15, 2025. Students interested in positions for the spring, summer or fall semesters can find more information about the application process, internship expectations and deadlines for applying on the Senator's official website at: https://www.crapo.senate.gov/services/for-students/internships. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://fulcher.house.gov/2025/09/12/id-d2f1e228-5a92-4913-8835-f536c1f5e5e8/,Idaho Delegation Supports Empowerment of Local Communities for America’s 250th Celebration,2025-09-12,2025,2025-09,Republican,House,ID,Russ Fulcher,F000469,fulcher.house.gov,fulcher,https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CONTACT: Christianné Allen, Christianne.Allen@mail.house.gov WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Russ Fulcher and Mike Simpson and U.S. Senators Jim Risch and Mike Crapo sent a letter to U.S. Department of Interior Secretary Doug Burgum requesting the agency allocate portions of the funding provided under Section 50305 of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act directly to the 56 state and territorial America 250 (A250) commissions. The 250th celebration of America’s founding will be an opportunity to support local history organizations and bring history to life for millions of Americans. “Over the past several years, we have advocated for meaningful investment in America 250 (A250) activities, with a focus on ensuring celebrations are rooted in local communities through the support of more than 21,000 history organizations across the country,” the letter reads in part. “Doing so will empower communities across the nation to participate in, and shape, commemorations reflective of their individual histories and contributions to our shared national story,” the letter continues. “In Idaho, partnerships between communities and local history organizations have proven to be an essential asset in educating young Idahoans and preserving our state’s unique history.” The letter can be viewed here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/idaho-delegation-supports-empowerment-of-local-communities-for-americas-250th-celebration,Idaho Delegation Supports Empowerment of Local Communities for America’s 250th Celebration,2025-09-12,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--The Idaho Congressional Delegation sent a letter to U.S. Department of Interior Secretary Doug Burgum requesting the agency allocate portions of the funding provided under Section 50305 of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act directly to the 56 state and territorial America 250 (A250) commissions. The 250th celebration of America’s founding will be an opportunity to support local history organizations and bring history to life for millions of Americans. “Over the past several years, we have advocated for meaningful investment in America 250 (A250) activities, with a focus on ensuring celebrations are rooted in local communities through the support of more than 21,000 history organizations across the country,” the letter reads in part. “Doing so will empower communities across the nation to participate in, and shape, commemorations reflective of their individual histories and contributions to our shared national story,” the letter continues. “In Idaho, partnerships between communities and local history organizations have proven to be an essential asset in educating young Idahoans and preserving our state’s unique history.” Read the full letter HERE. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://fulcher.house.gov/2025/09/11/id-ae92257b-e31a-4b8d-bd8e-1b9c0fdf3854/,Fulcher Announces Next Telephone Town Hall,2025-09-11,2025,2025-09,Republican,House,ID,Russ Fulcher,F000469,fulcher.house.gov,fulcher,https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher (Idaho-01) announced his next telephone town hall will take place on September 16, 2025, at 6 p.m. MT, 5 p.m. PT. The event serves as an opportunity for residents of Idaho’s 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. Congressman Fulcher hosted a successful telephone town hall in July, reaching nearly ten thousand Idahoans across the First District. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://fulcher.house.gov/2025/09/10/id-b4a2f4a6-bcdc-4916-ae90-94d6b2a54bc9/,"Fulcher, Simpson, Risch, Crapo Celebrate Reversal of Biden-era Public Lands Rule",2025-09-10,2025,2025-09,Republican,House,ID,Russ Fulcher,F000469,fulcher.house.gov,fulcher,https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CONTACT: Christianné Allen, Christianne.Allen@mail.house.gov WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Russ Fulcher and Mike Simpson and U.S. Senators Jim Risch and Mike Crapo today released the following statements upon the Trump administration’s reversal of a Biden-era Bureau of Land Management (BLM) rule. The public lands rule violated the legal mandate for managing public lands for multiple-uses like grazing, timber production, mining, and energy development, and blocked access to federal lands. “I applaud President Trump’s action to rescind the Biden-era Bureau of Land Management’s Conservation and Landscape Health rule—an effort I have been spearheading in the House through the WEST Act. This rule would have effectively locked up millions of acres across the U.S. that countless families and businesses have relied on for grazing, ranching, and recreation for generations. The administration’s move to roll back this regulation protects the way of life for Americans across the West and preserves Congress’s intent of multiple-use on public lands,” said Fulcher. “Reversing the harmful Biden-era Conservation and Landscape Health Rule, which locked up millions of acres of our nation’s public lands, is long overdue. I am grateful that President Trump listened to Idahoans and those from the West who cherish the concept of multiple use on public lands,” said Simpson. “As Chairman of the House Interior and Environment Appropriations Subcommittee, I appreciate President Trump and Secretary Burgum for their leadership on this issue, and I look forward to working with the Trump administration to support the very people who rely on our federal lands for ranching, grazing, recreation, and much more.” “Multiple-use is a legal requirement, not a suggestion. Today, President Trump and Secretary Burgum have returned common sense to the management of our public lands,” said Risch. “Restoring Idaho’s access to our public lands for long-standing multiple uses like recreation, grazing, energy production, and mineral development will result in conservation without impeding or replacing the productivity on our public lands.” “Public lands provide a range of benefits to the lives of Idahoans and other Westerners. The BLM rule finalized under the previous Administration circumvented Congress and empowered special interest groups over those who live, work and recreate on these lands,” said Crapo. “President Trump and Secretary Burgum are once again restoring commonsense policies with regard to federal land management.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-requests-information-on-social-security-data-protections,Crapo Requests Information on Social Security Data Protections,2025-09-10,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.—Following recent allegations of data mishandling within the Social Security Administration (SSA), U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) requested information from the agency to better understand the SSA’s data storage and security practices, and to immediately confirm whether sensitive personally identifiable information was accessed, leaked, hacked or disseminated in any unauthorized fashion. ""All credible whistleblower allegations must be taken seriously and claims should be thoroughly investigated if warranted,” said Crapo. “It is critical that federal agencies work to implement the strongest protections for Americans’ most sensitive personal information and ensure any data mismanagement is addressed through congressional oversight.” In the letter to SSA Commissioner Frank Bisignano, Crapo requests information on: What actions SSA took upon receipt of the whistleblower’s concerns about the agency’s data security practices; What security measures are in place to ensure sensitive information is handled in accordance with applicable laws and regulations; When SSA first stored personally identifiable information in a cloud environment; and How the SSA assesses the risk of providing certain agency employees with the ability to transfer data from the Numident database to a private cloud environment, and if the process diverged from the agency’s usual risk assessment process. Read the full letter here or below: Dear Commissioner Bisignano: I write to inform you that my staff and I reviewed information recently made public through disclosures and supplemental documents provided to Congress and the U.S. Office of Special Counsel, by Mr. Chuck Borges, a protected whistleblower and former Chief Data Officer of the Social Security Administration (SSA or “agency”) on August 26, 2025. In his complaint against the agency, Mr. Borges described alleged shortfalls in how SSA safeguards personally identifiable information (PII), in a test cloud environment, including how the agency governs access, management, and storage of such sensitive information. Mr. Borges further alleged that his attempts to report his security concerns to his superiors were ignored, which in turn created a hostile work environment and culminated in his resignation from the SSA on August 29. As Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance (“Committee”), I must take very seriously every allegation made by a protected whistleblower. Further, given the large amount of sensitive data under SSA’s control, I consider the protection and security of PII held by the agency to be a matter of first importance. As an immediate first step, considering the seriousness of Mr. Borges’ allegations concerning SSA’s ability to safeguard data collected and maintained by the agency, please inform the Committee on Finance immediately upon receipt of this letter whether the Numident database itself or any data contained in the Numident was accessed, leaked, hacked, or disseminated in any unauthorized fashion. To better understand the SSA’s data security practices more broadly and the agency’s response, if any, to Mr. Borges’ allegations, I am providing you with the opportunity to respond to the following questions by September 23, 2025. What actions did SSA take upon receipt of Mr. Borges’ concerns about the agency’s data security practices, including its handling of the Numident database and the data it contains? What security measures and/or oversight mechanisms are in place at SSA to ensure sensitive data and PII are handled in accordance with applicable laws and regulations? When did SSA first store PII in a cloud environment? Why and when did SSA select Amazon Web Services (AWS) to be the agency’s cloud service provider? How did the SSA assess the risk of providing certain agency employees with the ability to transfer data from the Numident database to a private cloud within SSA’s AWS cloud environment? Did this process diverge from the agency’s usual risk assessment process? If so, how? If there are any other matters relevant to the Committee better understanding the agency’s data security practices generally or Mr. Borges’ concerns specifically, please provide additional details for the Committee’s awareness. Thank you for your attention to this important matter. I look forward to your immediate response to the first question regarding the status and security of Americans’ personal information in the agency’s possession, and to the other questions within two weeks. Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-risch-simpson-fulcher-celebrate-reversal-of-biden-era-public-lands-rule,"Crapo, Risch, Simpson, Fulcher Celebrate Reversal of Biden-era Public Lands Rule",2025-09-10,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch and U.S. Representatives Mike Simpson and Russ Fulcher released the following statements upon the Trump Administration’s reversal of a Biden-era Bureau of Land Management (BLM) rule. The public lands rule violated the legal mandate for managing public lands for multiple-uses like grazing, timber production, mining and energy development and blocked access to federal lands. “Public lands provide a range of benefits to the lives of Idahoans and other Westerners. The BLM rule finalized under the previous Administration circumvented Congress and empowered special interest groups over those who live, work and recreate on these lands,” said Crapo. “President Trump and Secretary Burgum are once again restoring commonsense policies with regard to federal land management.” “Multiple use is a legal requirement, not a suggestion. Today, President Trump and Secretary Burgum have returned common sense to the management of our public lands,” said Risch. “Restoring Idaho’s access to our public lands for long-standing multiple uses like recreation, grazing, energy production, and mineral development will result in conservation without impeding or replacing the productivity on our public lands.” “Reversing the harmful Biden-era Conservation and Landscape Health Rule, which locked up millions of acres of our nation's public lands, is long overdue. I am grateful that President Trump listened to Idahoans and those from the West who cherish the concept of multiple use on public lands,” said Simpson. “As Chairman of the House Interior and Environment Appropriations Subcommittee, I appreciate President Trump and Secretary Burgum for their leadership on this issue, and I look forward to working with the Trump administration to support the very people who rely on our federal lands for ranching, grazing, recreation, and much more.” ""I applaud President Trump’s action to rescind the Biden-era Bureau of Land Management’s Conservation and Landscape Health rule—an effort I have been spearheading in the House through the WEST Act. This rule would have effectively locked up millions of acres across the U.S. that countless families and businesses have relied on for grazing, ranching, and recreation for generations. The administration’s move to roll back this regulation protects the way of life for Americans across the West and preserves Congress’s intent of multiple-use on public lands,"" said Fulcher. The Idaho delegation has urged the BLM to withdraw the proposed Public Lands Rule and introduced legislation to block the rule. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-statement-at-treasury-irs-nominations-hearing,"Crapo Statement at Treasury, IRS Nominations Hearing",2025-09-10,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.—U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo delivered the following remarks at a hearing to consider Jonathan Greenstein to be Deputy Under Secretary for International Finance at the Department of the Treasury and Donald Korb to be Chief Counsel of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). As prepared for delivery: “Thank you to our nominees, Mr. Greenstein and Mr. Korb, for being here today. Congratulations on your nominations and thank you both for your willingness to serve. “We will first hear from Jonathan Greenstein, who is nominated to serve as the Deputy Under Secretary for International Finance at the Treasury Department. “This position deals with matters pertaining to international finance, economic development, bilateral and regional economic engagement and international debt. “If confirmed, Mr. Greenstein will be responsible for ensuring the U.S. remains a leader in international organizations like the International Monetary Fund and World Bank. These organizations, while important, have suffered from mission creep in recent years, expanding their focus far beyond their core mandates. “I welcome Mr. Greenstein’s thoughts on how we can return these organizations to their respective original missions. I also look forward to hearing his views on how the Treasury Department can effectively protect against currency manipulation to ensure other nations do not gain an unfair competitive advantage in international trade. “Next, we will hear from Donald Korb, who is nominated to serve as Chief Counsel of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). “The Chief Counsel of the IRS is the top legal officer and advisor to the Commissioner on all matters relating to the interpretation, administration and enforcement of tax laws. Mr. Korb knows the position well, having served in the role of Chief Counsel from 2004 to 2008. I will also note that his previous nomination was unanimously approved by this Committee. “That previous experience provided Mr. Korb first-hand insight into the importance of fair and impartial interpretation of our tax laws and assurance that taxpayer rights are strictly protected. The agency will be well-served by having a steady hand who understands these duties in one of its most senior positions. “Mr. Korb is among the most highly respected tax lawyers in the country. I trust that his integrity and judgment will lead him to focus on how best to serve the American taxpayer, enforce the law with integrity and fairness for all and build confidence in the IRS. I also look forward to working with him, if confirmed, to ensure that tax provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act are effectively and properly implemented. “Thank you again to our nominees for their time today.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-statement-on-assassination-of-charlie-kirk,Crapo Statement on Assassination of Charlie Kirk,2025-09-10,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) issued the following statement on the assassination of Turning Point USA co-founder and conservative political activist, Charlie Kirk, at Utah Valley University. “Charlie was a leader in the conservative political movement with many promising years to come. His assassination is a vile and reprehensible act of political violence. Charlie promoted open dialogue and invited conversation from people of all backgrounds--especially with those with whom he disagreed. This loss to the conservative movement is deep. My heart, as well as many hundreds of thousands of others, breaks for his family as he cannot be replaced as a husband and a father. I offer my deepest condolences to his wife, Erika, and their two small children. May God hold them close.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T15:07:37Z https://fulcher.house.gov/2025/09/05/id-40c1e1a1-614c-435c-b2a6-d5d52cb5c65f/,Fulcher Votes to Advance Energy and Water Appropriations Bill,2025-09-05,2025,2025-09,Republican,House,ID,Russ Fulcher,F000469,fulcher.house.gov,fulcher,https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CONTACT: Christianné Allen, Christianne.Allen@mail.house.gov WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher (Idaho-01) issued the following statement after voting in favor of the Fiscal Year 2026 Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, H.R. 4553. “U.S. national security, energy dominance, economic strength, robust infrastructure, and fiscal responsibility are the key components of the House’s Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act,” said Congressman Fulcher. “I voted yes on this legislation, which prioritizes domestic critical mining for materials and minerals, ensuring America’s supply chains are not reliant on foreign adversaries for the building blocks that make up today’s advanced technology,” Congressman Fulcher added. “Additionally, H.R. 4553 will strengthen U.S. energy independence by tapping into the power of geothermal—a natural resource Idaho has been successful in utilizing for over a century—and prioritizes America first by making key investments into the modernization of our military capabilities, nuclear stockpiles, and dams, storage, and other water infrastructure.” Bill Highlights This legislation prioritizes funding for agencies and programs that safeguard U.S. national security, unleash American energy dominance, and advance economic competitiveness by: Supporting one of the largest investments focused on mining production technologies for critical minerals extraction in decades, reducing reliance on foreign sources. Increasing investments to develop new baseload geothermal energy sources to capitalize on our vast domestic resources. Maintaining funding for cybersecurity efforts that enable a resilient, reliable, and secure electric grid. Prohibiting access to U.S. nuclear weapons production facilities by citizens of China and Russia. Banning the purchase of technology and telecommunications equipment from China and other adversaries. Facilitating the efficient transport of goods and commodities through improvements and maintenance of America’s ports and waterways. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://fulcher.house.gov/2025/09/04/id-929a4eb4-c8f6-4a48-97a6-faed10c1678e/,Fulcher: The Epstein Files Must Be Released,2025-09-04,2025,2025-09,Republican,House,ID,Russ Fulcher,F000469,fulcher.house.gov,fulcher,https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CONTACT: Christianné Allen, Christianne.Allen@mail.house.gov WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher (Idaho-01) issued the following statement. “The Epstein files must be released, and those who abused vulnerable young people must be held accountable. I fully support the actions being led by House Oversight Chairman James Comer to do just that. Just this week, 33,295 pages of Epstein-related records were made public, with more information to come soon. We have an obligation to the victims, and a responsibility to expose the truth and create accountability. I will continue to do everything I can to prevent this type of carnage from ever happening again,” said Congressman Fulcher. The House Oversight Committee has initiated an investigation into Jeffrey Epstein, his associated prosecution, and plea deal. For more information on what actions the Committee has undertaken to date, click here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-risch-bennet-hickenlooper-lujan-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-invest-in-americas-forests-and-watersheds,"Crapo, Risch, Bennet, Hickenlooper, Luján Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Invest in America’s Forests and Watersheds",2025-09-04,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Michael Bennet (D-Colorado), John Hickenlooper (D-Colorado) and Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico) introduced the Headwaters Protection Act to invest in America’s forests and watersheds by expanding two key U.S. Forest Service (USFS) programs. The two programs together prevent water pollution at the source, improve the health of our watersheds and ensure investments benefit downstream communities. “Natural resources and the environment are best protected through collaborative efforts at the local level,” said Crapo. “We must support watershed restoration projects that encourage collaboration in small, rural and disadvantaged communities and Tribes without exerting federal control over private lands.” “When managed properly, National Forests can provide the foundation for healthy watersheds, providing clean drinking water and irrigation,” said Risch. “The Headwaters Protection Act will allow community, industry, and federal partners to improve and protect critical forest water sources for decades to come.” “In the West, the survival of our economy and our way of life depends on the stewardship of our forests and watersheds,” said Bennet. “We need to pass this legislation to protect critical water resources for downstream communities and make our forests more resilient to wildfire, drought, and a changing climate.” “Colorado’s forests and grasslands are key to healthy watersheds, with benefits that flow far downstream,” said Hickenlooper. “Our bill equips farmers, cities, and the Forest Service to help reduce water pollution at the source and deliver cleaner water for our communities.” “Water is essential to the health and safety of our communities. Protecting and improving our watersheds is critical to ensuring reliable access to clean drinking water and making our forests more resilient against wildfires,” said Luján. “The Headwaters Protection Act will strengthen these efforts by investing in watershed management and pollution prevention. Importantly for New Mexico, it also expands the Water Source Protection Program to include acequias and land-grant mercedes as eligible water users, recognizing their vital role in our state’s water systems.” To ensure clean drinking water for communities, the USFS has two key authorities to manage our forests for watershed health: the Water Source Protection Program (WSPP) and the Watershed Condition Framework (WCF). The WSPP invests in projects that prevent water pollution at the source by encouraging farmers and ranchers, water utilities, Tribes, local governments and the USFS to work in partnership to restore forest health and impaired watersheds. The WCF establishes a consistent process at the USFS to evaluate the health of watersheds and ensure investments benefit downstream communities. The Headwaters Protection Act would improve the WSPP by increasing and expanding access to funding and directing the program to prioritize local, collaborative partnerships to protect forests and watersheds. It would also create dedicated funding for WCF and makes a technical change to the program to ensure management activities in our National Forests do not lead to the long-term degradation of our watersheds. Specifically, the Headwaters Protection Act would: Reauthorize the WSPP and increase the authorization of appropriations for the program; Broaden the range of water users who can participate in and benefit from the WSPP; Reduce financial barriers for water users to participate in the WSPP; Prioritize WSPP projects that benefit drinking water quality and improve resilience to wildfire and climate change; Make a technical change to the WCF to ensure healthy watersheds do not become degraded; and Authorize new appropriations for the WCF. The text of the bill is available HERE. A summary of the bill is available HERE. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-statement-at-executive-session-to-consider-ustr-hhs-nominations,"Crapo Statement at Executive Session to Consider USTR, HHS Nominations",2025-09-04,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.—U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) delivered the following remarks at an executive session to consider the nominations of Bryan Switzer to be Deputy United States Trade Representative (USTR), Gustav Chiarello to be Assistant Secretary for Financial Resources at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and Michael Stuart to be General Counsel at HHS. As prepared for delivery: “We meet today to consider favorably reporting the nominations of Rick Switzer to be a Deputy United States Trade Representative, Gus Chiarello to be Assistant Secretary for Financial Resources (ASFR) at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and Mike Stuart to be General Counsel of HHS. “The meeting this morning will provide members with the opportunity to offer remarks on the nominees. Following statements, we will recess briefly then proceed to this morning’s hearing with Secretary Kennedy. Later today, we will notify members of the time and location of the vote on these nominations. “At his hearing, Mr. Switzer discussed his commitment to trade policies and practices that place the American economy and the American worker first. I look forward to working with him, if confirmed, to ensure that our trade policy prioritizes U.S. competitiveness, spurs job creation and promotes innovation. “Mr. Chiarello and Mr. Stuart discussed the critical issues in our health care system, including soaring costs, a burdensome drug approval process and the opioid crisis. If confirmed, both Mr. Chiarello and Mr. Stuart will have the opportunity to advise Secretary Kennedy on potential solutions. Given their respective backgrounds, I am confident in their ability to provide thoughtful counsel to the Secretary. “I will be voting in favor of each nomination and I encourage all of my colleagues on the Committee to do the same. “I now recognize Ranking Member Wyden for his remarks.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-statement-at-hearing-on-the-presidents-2026-health-care-agenda,Crapo Statement at Hearing on the President’s 2026 Health Care Agenda,2025-09-04,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) delivered the following remarks at a hearing on the President’s 2026 health care agenda with U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. “Today, we meet to hear from U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. about President Trump’s 2026 health care agenda. “Mr. Secretary, thank you for being here. While I expect a spirited debate today, I would remind my colleagues that each Senator is limited to five minutes. At the end of the five-minute timeframe, I will gently tap the gavel and encourage my colleagues to conclude their remarks at that time. “President Trump and Secretary Kennedy have made a steadfast commitment to Make America Healthy Again. Under this Administration, HHS has placed patients at the center of the health care system, empowering them with the tools and information they need to create a healthier future. “We know that chronic diseases—such as heart disease, cancer and diabetes—are some of the leading causes of death in America. Now, the Department has a renewed focus on tackling the root causes of chronic disease and promoting prevention first. “I look forward to exploring ways that the federal government can further align payment incentives to support healthy living and fight chronic disease. The Administration has also prioritized efforts to end waste, fraud and abuse in our federal health care programs, including through eligibility and enrollment verification. “This critical work is not just about saving taxpayer dollars; it is about restoring trust and ensuring vital programs like Medicare and Medicaid are sustainable for generations to come. In July, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) announced that the agency identified 2.8 million Americans simultaneously enrolled in multiple Medicaid or Affordable Care Act Exchange plans. “Stopping this duplicate enrollment, while working with states to ensure individuals do not inappropriately lose coverage, has the potential to save taxpayers $14 billion annually. CMS has also taken steps to provide states with additional immigration information to verify eligibility for federal health care programs. “Preserving lifelines like Medicaid for those who are legally entitled under the law will ensure long-term sustainability. Congress has bolstered these efforts by passing the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA). “The OBBBA enacts commonsense reforms to reduce improper payments and brings needed personal accountability to the Medicaid program. These reforms will protect Medicaid and refocus the program on the most vulnerable patients the program was intended to serve. “OBBBA also created the Rural Health Transformation Program—the single largest investment in rural health care in decades—to help stabilize and modernize the rural health delivery system throughout the country. These accomplishments reflect a vision for a health care system that is proactive, efficient and patient-centered. “While many of the issues discussed today may be partisan in nature, this Committee has a deep history of bipartisan health care accomplishments. I remain committed to partnering with this Administration and Ranking Member Wyden to enact policies that realign incentives in the prescription drug supply chain, expand access to telehealth, and ensure long-term stability in our physician payment system. “Mr. Secretary, I look forward to hearing from you today about the Administration’s effort to Make America Healthy Again and how we can continue to work together to achieve this shared goal.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/finance-committee-advances-ustr-hhs-nominations,"Finance Committee Advances USTR, HHS Nominations",2025-09-04,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.—The U.S. Senate Finance Committee advanced the nomination of Bryan Switzer to be Deputy United States Trade Representative (USTR) by a vote of 15-12, and the nominations Gustav Chiarello to be Assistant Secretary for Financial Resources at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and Michael Stuart to be General Counsel at HHS, each by a vote of 14-13. Following the vote, Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) issued the statement below: “I commend the Committee’s action and congratulate each nominee. I share Mr. Switzer’s commitment to trade policies and practices that place the American economy and workers first. I look forward to working with him to ensure that our trade policy prioritizes U.S. competitiveness, spurs job creation and promotes innovation. Mr. Chiarello and Mr. Stuart are well-equipped to address the critical issues in our health care system, including soaring costs, a burdensome drug approval process and the opioid crisis. I am confident in each nominee’s ability to serve Americans’ best interest and implement the President’s agenda. I look forward to their confirmation by the full senate.” Executive session information can be found here. Read Chairman Crapo’s full statement at the nomination hearing here, and his statement at the executive session here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-obbb-makes-americans-more-prosperous,Crapo: OBBB Makes Americans More Prosperous,2025-08-22,2025,2025-08,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Boise, Idaho--During the Senate state work period, Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) spoke at an Idaho event with Americans for Prosperity (AFP) to discuss the ways the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBB) builds on the Trump tax credits by making provisions permanent and delivering additional middle-class tax relief. The OBBB: Fulfills President Trump’s promises like no taxes on tips and no taxes on overtime. Creates new and significant tax relief for our seniors. Benefits families with a bigger, permanent child tax credit, expanded child care benefits and the first ever federal school choice tax credits. Benefits businesses with a permanent 20 percent small business deduction and full expensing for factories and capital equipment. “The One Big Beautiful Bill is significant and sweeping, and it is probably one of the most consequential pieces of legislation most of us will have worked on in our lifetimes,” Crapo said. AFP Managing Director Kent Strang: “The truth is, the OBBBA represents a generational opportunity to transform the American economy. From unleashing innovation and cutting red tape to delivering real relief for families and small businesses, the bill is already making a difference—and AFP is committed to making sure every American knows it.” Click HERE to learn more about the Finance Committee provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:57:50Z https://fulcher.house.gov/2025/08/21/id-092af5cd-6593-4f32-a454-2ce97d3e496e/,Fulcher Reintroduces ‘One Subject At A Time Act’ Ahead of Fiscal Year Deadline,2025-08-21,2025,2025-08,Republican,House,ID,Russ Fulcher,F000469,fulcher.house.gov,fulcher,https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"CONTACT: Christianné Allen, Christianne.Allen@mail.house.gov WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher (Idaho-01) has reintroduced H.R. 4324, the One Subject at a Time Act. The legislation comes as the federal government nears its fiscal year-end deadline on September 30, marking Congress’s annual cutoff to enact appropriations bills. “Congress must address its broken budget process, which has repeatedly led to massive omnibus bills and continuing resolutions (CRs) due to missed deadlines and a failure to go through appropriations in regular order,” said Congressman Fulcher. “H.R. 4324 will increase transparency for the American People regarding legislation, help restore trust in our representative government, and improve the federal budget process by focusing every bill legislators consider on a single subject, ensuring each topic receives a separate vote. This is how it is done in Idaho, and I believe it is key to how the U.S. Congress can right America’s fiscal ship and put her on a path of budget sustainability.” The One Subject at a Time Act requires that each bill or joint resolution shall not have more than one subject. Additionally, an appropriations bill cannot change existing authorizing law that is not germane to that appropriations bill, but still allows for limitation amendments that are germane to the bill. H.R. 4324 has been referred to the House Judiciary Committee. Congressman Fulcher first introduced the bill in 2019. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:57:50Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-releases-preliminary-housing-survey-summary,Crapo Releases Preliminary Housing Survey Summary,2025-08-20,2025,2025-08,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Boise, Idaho--At a roundtable discussion with U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner and other local housing stakeholders, U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) shared preliminary details of the results of his 2025 Housing Survey. The Survey was conducted from March 31, 2025, to May 31, 2025. It garnered over 5,000 responses from Idahoans. “The overwhelming participation of Idahoans in this survey is indicative of the widespread concern about housing affordability in Idaho,” said Crapo. “Ongoing affordability issues, such as wages not keeping up with costs; low housing supply not keeping up with demand; and market pressures, like high interest rates, are among the most pressing concerns Idahoans reflected in their responses. While Idahoans share many frustrations, the survey further highlighted differences in specific challenges and desired solutions--reflecting a vital need for a careful, targeted and collaborative policy approach.” “I thank Secretary Turner for joining me in Idaho to hear from a variety of stakeholders on housing issues most pressing to my constituents, and I remain committed to working with him, the Trump Administration and my colleagues in Congress to find collaborative, achievable solutions to improving housing affordability in Idaho and across the nation,” Crapo concluded. The preliminary summary is available HERE. The summary captures the most common themes as mentioned by homeowners and renters, which account for 90.1 percent of the total respondents. Information for additional respondents (banker, insurance agent, local government, realtor or homebuilder) is not yet available as review has not yet concluded. Due to the expansive nature of the survey, Senator Crapo’s office continues to evaluate all responses to the survey. A more comprehensive report of the results will be released once a thorough review of the responses has concluded. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:57:50Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-hud-secretary-turner-visit-idahos-first-opportunity-zone-project-highlight-benefits-of-programs-permanent-expansion,"Crapo, HUD Secretary Turner Visit Idaho’s First Opportunity Zone Project, Highlight Benefits of Program’s Permanent Expansion",2025-08-19,2025,2025-08,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Twin Falls, Idaho--U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner visited 2nd South Market, Idaho’s first completed Opportunity Zone (OZ) project and Idaho’s first food hall. During their visit to the Magic Valley, Senator Crapo and Secretary Turner met with Lisa and Dave Buddecke, owners of the 2nd South Market, discussed the benefits of the OZ program and highlighted the impact of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) for Idahoans. Pictured from left: Idaho Senate Pro Tempore Kelly Anthon, Senator Mike Crapo, Secretary Turner, Dave Buddecke, Lisa Buddecke To access downloadable photos from the event, please click HERE. “Permanence of the 2017 Trump tax cuts was a top priority of mine when drafting the One Big Beautiful Bill. Permanency provides the consistency needed to help drive success for American businesses, communities, families and workers,” said Senator Crapo. “2nd South Market is a shining example of the Opportunity Zone Program at work in Idaho. It is a first-of-its-kind in the state, and I hope there will be more development like it in the Magic Valley soon. I could not be happier to be joined today by Secretary Turner, Lisa and her husband Dave, and other members of the Magic Valley community.” “Thanks to President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill, Opportunity Zones are now a permanent part of the tax code. This much needed continuity allows for the creation of more jobs, the construction of more homes, and the revitalization of more forgotten neighborhoods across the country,” said Secretary Turner. “I am delighted to join Senator Crapo and the Magic Valley community today in the great state of Idaho to witness first-hand how Opportunity Zone projects like 2nd South Market are transforming the lives of Idahoans and breathing new life into the state.” “Were it not for this building’s location in an Opportunity Zone, developing Idaho’s first food hall would not have been possible,” said Lisa. “We hope our small success story serves as a catalyst for future projects – not just in Twin Falls and Idaho – but across rural communities throughout the country. Local business successes can happen when a great federal program like this make them possible.” ""Southern Idaho has become one of the most successful rural regions in the country, and programs like the New Markets Tax Credit and the Trump Administration's Opportunity Zones are a big reason why,” said Idaho State Senate President Pro Tempore Kelly Anthon. “With Senator Crapo’s support of these important tools, we’ve been able to attract investment, create jobs, and transform communities across the Magic Valley. The results speak for themselves—Southern Idaho is thriving."" Background: 2nd South Market is a 13,000 square-foot food hall restaurant in a refurbished 1926 blacksmith and machining building. The Market brings together small local business owners--including seven vendors--that collectively employ nearly 80 people. The project’s first investment was launched in 2019, and 2nd South Market opened in January 2021. The business is the first completed Opportunity Zone project in Idaho. It boasts over 13,000 square-feet of food vendors and a full bar, as well as an additional 14,700 square-feet outside socializing area. Opportunity Zones were established by the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act to encourage private, long-term investments in low-income urban areas and rural communities with low economic activity. Within the first two years of the program, 54 percent of Idaho’s Opportunity Zones saw investments. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act, signed into law on July 4, 2025, makes permanent the expanded OZ program, especially focusing on spurring investment in rural areas. It also enables governors to expand the map of targeted communities and creates new reporting and transparency requirements to evaluate the program’s success. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:57:50Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/the-one-big-beautiful-bill-drives-deficit-reduction,The One Big Beautiful Bill Drives Deficit Reduction,2025-08-18,2025,2025-08,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.-- The One Big Beautiful Bill Act achieves record savings with a combination of historic spending reductions and provisions that power economic growth. This legislation represents a long-overdue step to stabilize our country’s fiscal trajectory. “The way to address the deficit is not to tax hardworking taxpayers more, it is to grow the economy and spend less. According to the Congressional Budget Office, the bill cuts federal spending by over $1.5 trillion and reduces the deficit by roughly $400 billion. That does not include the bill’s pro-growth elements, which the Council of Economic Advisers estimates will increase federal revenues by more than $4 trillion, adding up to nearly $4.5 trillion in deficit reduction,” said Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho). Savings and Deficit Reduction: $366 billion in deficit reduction, according to CBO $1.6 trillion in mandatory spending reductions: The White House $4 trillion in economic growth generated, per CEA Economic Growth Projections: $248 billion in economic growth will come from the manufacturing sector alone, per NAM Permanence for the [bill’s] four cost recovery provisions would more than double the long-run economic effect, per Tax Foundation Making the small-business deduction permanent will create 1.2 million jobs over ten years, growing to 2.4 million jobs in the long run, per NFIB Click HERE to learn more about the Finance Committee provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:57:50Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/the-one-big-beautiful-bill-achieves-record-savings,The One Big Beautiful Bill Achieves Record Savings,2025-08-11,2025,2025-08,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--The One Big Beautiful Bill Act achieves record savings by making commonsense reforms to federal spending programs and rolling back Biden Administration subsidies and regulations. “By pairing the largest reduction in mandatory spending in history with measures that boost economic growth, this bill takes meaningful steps to get our country’s fiscal trajectory back on track,” said Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho). Key wins: Eliminates hundreds of billions of dollars in Green New Deal subsidies. Prevents Medicaid payments for beneficiaries who have died, are enrolled in multiple states or do not qualify for the program. Increases the frequency of eligibility verifications. Establishes work requirements for able-bodied adults who are choosing not to work and do not have dependent children or elderly parents in their care. Slows spending growth in Medicaid over the next 10 years by addressing waste, fraud and abuse. What they are saying: “The Senate’s legislation delivers historic improvements to buttress our Medicaid system—a program designed to help pregnant women, the disabled, the elderly, and children—by implementing common sense work requirements for able-bodied adults. These improvements prioritize care for the most vulnerable Medicaid recipients, save the program from financial ruin and are overwhelmingly supported by voters.” – Americans for Tax Reform “The Senate’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act contains significant wins for the American people and advances key pieces of the America First agenda, including: eliminating waste, fraud and abuse in Medicaid by creating work requirements, tightening eligibility, and limiting state financing schemes; and scaling back wasteful Green New Deal subsidies forced onto taxpayers in Biden’s deceptively named Inflation Reduction Act.” – Heritage Action Click HERE to learn more about the Finance Committee provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:57:50Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-stands-with-president-trump-in-strong-opposition-to-debanking-practices,Crapo Stands with President Trump in Strong Opposition to Debanking Practices,2025-08-07,2025,2025-08,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) applauds President Donald Trump’s signing of an executive order “guaranteeing free and fair banking for all Americans,” on August 7, 2025. As a long-time member and former Chairman of the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs, Crapo has consistently worked to ensure an even playing field and expand access to financial services to individuals and businesses. The executive order states that, under the Biden Administration, bank regulators pressured financial institutions to cut off or debank individuals, families and businesses for their “political affiliations, religious beliefs or lawful business activities.” “I have spent many years challenging banks and federal activities that employ tactics to cut off credit and capital services to law-abiding businesses if they do not comply with the bank’s ‘preferences,’” Senator Crapo said. “Today, President Donald Trump is taking steps to stop these underhanded methods of advancing a political agenda. I look forward to continuing to work with this Administration to repeal harmful practices that hinder law-abiding businesses from accessing full-scale banking resources.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:57:50Z https://fulcher.house.gov/2025/08/06/id-aaf0cd97-dc4a-42d9-b6c4-fd301dd6147c/,Fulcher Statement on Interior Department’s Move to Cancel Lava Ridge Wind Project,2025-08-06,2025,2025-08,Republican,House,ID,Russ Fulcher,F000469,fulcher.house.gov,fulcher,https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CONTACT: Christianné Allen, Christianne.Allen@mail.house.gov WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher (Idaho-01) issued the following statement after the Department of the Interior announced it will move to officially cancel the Lava Ridge Wind Project in southern Idaho. “The disastrous Lava Ridge Wind Project, greenlit by the Biden administration, has officially been canceled. “Idahoans have been consistent, clear, and concise—this enormous wind farm, which would have blanketed over 57,000 acres of Idaho’s beautiful land, was never welcome. “I applaud the Trump administration and the Department of the Interior for taking this action and for reigning in costly, unreliable energy projects that make the United States dependent on our top foreign adversary—Communist China.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:57:50Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-applauds-us-department-of-interior-decision-to-cancel-lava-ridge-wind-project,Crapo Applauds U.S. Department of Interior Decision to Cancel Lava Ridge Wind Project,2025-08-06,2025,2025-08,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) released the following statement after the U.S. Department of Interior’s announcement on August 6, 2025, that it will move to cancel the Lava Ridge Wind Project, which was approved by the Biden Administration in December 2024. The project would have constructed 231 wind turbines on approximately 57,447 acres near Jerome, Idaho, despite strong opposition from local community members, state officials and Idaho’s congressional delegation. “Thanks to the U.S. Department of the Interior and Secretary Doug Burgum’s leadership, the Lava Ridge project is dead once and for all,” Senator Crapo said. “This harmful proposal by the previous Administration willfully neglected widespread opposition from the local community. I am glad to see President Donald Trump fulfilling his commitment to making sure Idaho voices on this matter were heard and respected.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:57:50Z https://fulcher.house.gov/2025/08/01/id-a141e1d9-49ff-483d-be61-6813fcb26aac/,"Fulcher Joins U.S. Chamber, Caldwell Chamber for Roundtable on Tax Reform",2025-08-01,2025,2025-08,Republican,House,ID,Russ Fulcher,F000469,fulcher.house.gov,fulcher,https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CONTACT: Christianné Allen, Christianne.Allen@mail.house.gov CALDWELL, ID — U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher (Idaho-01) joined the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the Caldwell Chamber of Commerce for a roundtable discussion in Caldwell, Idaho, with local business leaders on the pro-growth business tax provisions in H.R. 1, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which was signed into law on July 4th. This forward-looking, pro-growth policy is vital to maintaining America’s prosperity and competitive edge and will create new opportunities for American workers and businesses to thrive. “We applaud U.S. Representative Russ Fulcher for working to ensure that the constituents of the 1st District of Idaho continue to benefit from long-term tax relief, fostering growth for workers and businesses across his district and beyond,” the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s press release read. “The passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act will generate additional and new opportunities for Idaho’s business community,” said Katelyn Pay, Manager of the Northwest Region at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. “From family-run shops to expanding industrial enterprises, local employers are already seeing the benefits of a stronger, more supportive economic environment. Representative Fulcher’s leadership has been vital to advancing policies that create jobs and drive investment. Thanks to his support, businesses in Idaho are positioned to succeed for years to come.” “H.R. 1, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, delivers for hard-working Idahoans and Main Street,” said Congressman Fulcher. “It made the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) lower tax rates permanent for small businesses, while doubling their deductions on expenses. It also eliminated taxes on tips and overtime pay—a tax measure I was inspired to spearhead in Congress after speaking with a constituent at a town hall meeting in Sandpoint. This once in a generation legislation is pro-worker, pro-growth, pro-investment, and will help usher in a new era of American prosperity.” “We’re always looking for opportunities to put business owners and leaders in the same room with their elected representatives,” said Travis Palmer, President and CEO of the Caldwell Chamber of Commerce. “The bill (OBBBA) passed, and our local businesses want to know how they’ll be impacted and how they can potentially benefit from it. We appreciate the opportunity to hear from Representative Fulcher, ask important questions, and give feedback from the perspective of local business owners. Caldwell is a rapidly growing city, and we need our local businesses to grow and thrive just as much as our population has.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:57:50Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/the-one-big-beautiful-bill-implements-commonsense-medicaid-reforms,The One Big Beautiful Bill Implements Commonsense Medicaid Reforms,2025-08-01,2025,2025-08,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--Medicaid was created to help pregnant women, children, seniors and Americans with disabilities. Targeting waste, fraud and abuse in the program ensures that it stays financially viable for the populations who need it most. The problem: Democrats have incentivized Medicaid to enroll healthy Americans and cost-shift funding responsibilities to the federal government, driving up costs for taxpayers and risking the program’s sustainability for those who need it most. As a result, Medicaid spending has ballooned with outlays increasing over 200 percent since 2008 and over 50 percent since 2019 alone. As spending has surged, so have improper payments and ineligible enrollments, along with gimmicks and loopholes. Commonsense reforms: Work requirements for able-bodied adults who are choosing not to work. Able-bodied adults without dependents can work, enroll in school or volunteer for 80 hours per month in order to receive taxpayer-subsidized Medicaid coverage. Tightens eligibility verification by requiring states and recipients to verify eligibility twice a year for these benefits. Prevents payments for beneficiaries who have died, are enrolled in multiple states or do not qualify for the program. Prohibits states from waiving asset tests for long-term services, removing individuals from Medicaid rolls who have homes worth over $1 million. What they are saying: “Republicans are boosting the economy, saving taxpayers billions of dollars, and showing their deep belief in lower-income Americans’ ability to contribute to our country’s future. … They alone have passed the biggest welfare reform in U.S. history.” - Hayden Dublois, Foundation for Government Accountability “The GOP bill also includes sensible measures such as asking states to check their Medicaid expansion rolls every six months and more scrutiny on ObamaCare subsidies. That is necessary because the Biden Administration waved millions onto health entitlements … These are common-sense ideas that have public support.” - Wall Street Journal Editorial Board Click HERE to learn more about the Finance Committee provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:57:50Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/07/31/2025/crapo-announces-finance-committee-staff-updates,Crapo Announces Finance Committee Staff Updates,2025-07-31,2025,2025-07,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) today announced the following staff updates: Molly Newell, Chief International Trade Counsel Molly has been promoted to Chief International Trade Counsel. Molly joined the Finance Committee in January 2023 from Hogan Lovells US LLP, where she was an associate in the International Trade and Investment practice group working on issues involving trade remedies, customs, and U.S. trade policy. Before Hogan Lovells, she was a Senior Legislative Assistant in Representative Luke Messer’s (R-Indiana) office. Molly holds a J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center; a Master in Economic Law from Sciences Po; and a B.A. in French and International Studies from Indiana University. Brian Bombassaro, International Trade Counsel Brian rejoined the Committee in March after working as a Senior Associate at Arnold & Porter LLP. Prior to that, he served under former Finance Committee Chairmen Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Orrin Hatch (R-Utah). He received his J.D. from Yale Law School, M.P.P. from the Harvard Kennedy School and B.S.B.A. and B.A. from the University of Florida. Caitlin Wilson, Senior Health Counsel Caitlin joins the Committee from the Senate Budget Committee, where she participated in the reconciliation process to pass the One Big Beautiful Bill Act as senior counsel. She previously served as counsel to Senators John Cornyn (R-Texas), Roy Blunt (R-Missouri) and the House Energy and Commerce Committee under Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-Washington). She received her J.D. from Catholic University in Washington, D.C., and her B.A. in Political Science from Gettysburg College. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-statement-at-executive-session-to-consider-treasury-hhs-nominations,"Crapo Statement at Executive Session to Consider Treasury, HHS Nominations",2025-07-31,2025,2025-07,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) delivered the following remarks at an executive session to consider the nominations of Jonathan McKernan to be an Under Secretary of the Treasury and Alex Adams, of Idaho, to be Assistant Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary for Family Support. As prepared for delivery: “We meet today to consider favorably reporting the nominations of Jonathan McKernan, who is nominated to serve as Under Secretary for Domestic Finance at the Treasury Department, and Dr. Alex Adams, who is nominated to serve as the Assistant Secretary for Family Support at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). “The meeting this morning will provide members with the opportunity to offer remarks on the nominees. Following statements, we will recess briefly then proceed to this morning’s nominations hearing. Later today, we will notify members of the time and location of the vote on Mr. McKernan and Dr. Adams. “During his hearing, Mr. McKernan discussed his plans to use the Office of Domestic Finance’s wide-ranging authority to bring back sound and balanced regulation to our financial system. Properly tailoring regulation to underlying risks, rather than intangible policy goals, will provide much needed relief to financial institutions and the individuals they service. I look forward to working with him, if confirmed, to accomplish this goal. “Dr. Adams spoke strongly about his belief that federal policy should strengthen, rather than supplant, parents’ capacity to make the best decisions for their children. As the Director of the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, Dr. Adams knows what policy decisions empower states to provide critical assistance to some of America’s most vulnerable populations. I am confident in his ability to lead the array of programs under the Administration for Children and Families at HHS. “I will be voting in favor of both nominations and I encourage all of my colleagues on the Committee to do the same. “Before turning to Senator Wyden for his remarks, let me take a moment to acknowledge the retirement of Bob Becker. Bob has been with the Senate Recording Studio for 34 years and is retiring in August, today’s executive session and hearing are his last – we are glad you get to end your career with the best Committee. He is the recording studio’s ‘Go-to Hearing Director’ and has been essential in directing hearing coverage, coverage of the Senate floor and working in the recording studio in various roles. We wish Bob all the best on his well-earned retirement and thank him for his many years of service.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-statement-at-ustr-hhs-treasury-nominations-hearing,"Crapo Statement at USTR, HHS, Treasury Nominations Hearing",2025-07-31,2025,2025-07,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.—U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) delivered the following remarks at a hearing to consider Bryan Switzer to be a Deputy United States Trade Representative (USTR), Gustav Chiarello III to be an Assistant Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), Michael Stuart to be General Counsel of HHS and Derek Theurer to be a Deputy Under Secretary of the Treasury. As prepared for delivery: “This meeting will come to order. Thank you to our nominees, Mr. Switzer, Mr. Chiarello, Mr. Stuart and Mr. Theurer for being here today. Congratulations on your nominations and thank you all for your willingness to serve. “We will first hear from Rick Switzer, who is nominated to serve as the Deputy United States Trade Representative (USTR) for Asia, Textiles, Investment, Services and Intellectual Property. “Mr. Switzer has over 25 years of experience advancing U.S. strategic interests both domestically and internationally. Throughout his career as a Foreign Service Officer at the Department of State, he negotiated international agreements, expanded market access for U.S. businesses, and protected American firms from unfair trade practices such as intellectual property theft and forced technology transfer. I look forward to working with him, if confirmed, to ensure that USTR implements policies that promote U.S. competitiveness, build supply chain resilience and address emerging global challenges. “Next, we will hear from Gus Chiarello, who is nominated to serve as the Assistant Secretary for Financial Resources (ASFR) at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). “The ASFR is responsible for providing advice and guidance to the Secretary on all aspects of budget, financial management, acquisition policy and grants supervision. If confirmed, Mr. Chiarello would play a vital role in managing and overseeing the allocation of resources across the full range of HHS programs. His experience in consumer protection, regulatory reform, competition and antitrust issues will make him a valuable addition to the HHS team. As an attorney who served at both the Federal Trade Commission and with the House Judiciary Committee, he is prepared to ensure HHS resources are stewarded to benefit all Americans. “We will also hear from Mike Stuart, who is nominated to serve as General Counsel of HHS. “The General Counsel supports the development and implementation of the Department's programs by providing the highest quality legal services to the Secretary and the organization's various agencies and divisions. Mr. Stuart will be instrumental in making sure that new laws and regulations are effectively implemented at HHS. He is well suited for the position given his decades of legal experience, including previous service as the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of West Virginia. His experience prosecuting cases related to the opioid crisis and Medicaid fraud demonstrates a strong commitment to protect patients and root out waste and abuse in health care systems. “Finally, we will hear from Derek Theurer, who is nominated to serve as Deputy Under Secretary for Legislative Affairs at the Treasury Department. “The Deputy Under Secretary is responsible for advising the Secretary on congressional relations matters in order to assist in the formulation of policy and to determine the overall direction of the Department. Mr. Theurer is a veteran of Capitol Hill and undoubtedly understands the importance of keeping Congress informed of Departmental actions. Given his experience, I also expect him to prioritize timeliness in responding to inquiries from Congress. “Thank you again to our nominees for their time today.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/finance-committee-advances-treasury-hhs-nominations,"Finance Committee Advances Treasury, HHS Nominations",2025-07-31,2025,2025-07,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.—The U.S. Senate Finance Committee advanced the nominations of Jonathan McKernan to be an Under Secretary of the U.S. Department of the Treasury and Alex Adams, of Idaho, to be Assistant Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary for Family Support, each by a vote of 14-13. Following the vote, Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) issued the statement below: “Congratulations to each nominee. Mr. McKernan’s extensive qualifications will help him restore sound and balanced regulation to our financial system, and he is well prepared to serve as Under Secretary for Domestic Finance. Mr. Adams strongly believes that federal policy should strengthen parents’ ability to make the best decisions for their children, and I am confident in his ability to lead the array of programs under the Administration for Children and Families at HHS. I look forward to their confirmations by the full Senate and working with them in these roles.” Executive session information can be found here. Read Chairman Crapo’s full statement at the nomination hearing here, and his statement at the executive session here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/senate-banking-committee-unanimously-advances-comprehensive-housing-legislation,Senate Banking Committee Unanimously Advances Comprehensive Housing Legislation,2025-07-30,2025,2025-07,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--The U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs, of which U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) is a senior member, unanimously advanced the Renewing Opportunity in the American Dream (ROAD) to Housing Act of 2025. Senator Crapo is a co-sponsor of the legislation, which was led by Committee Chairman Tim Scott (R-South Carolina) and Ranking Member Elizabeth Warren (D-Massachusetts). “Homes are the foundation for economic success, family stability and community cohesiveness,” said Crapo. “Unfortunately, lack of affordable housing is routinely the number one concern I hear from Idahoans. We must reform inefficient segments of U.S. housing across all markets to make the American dream of homeownership more attainable.” The comprehensive housing package would take various steps to increase access to affordable housing for Americans across the country by expanding and preserving the housing supply, improving housing affordability, and increasing oversight and efficiency of federal regulators and housing programs. The measure contains several provisions Senator Crapo co-sponsored as standalone bills, including: The Housing Supply Frameworks Act; The Rural Housing Service Reform Act; The Reducing Homelessness Through Program Reform Act; The Housing Unhoused Disabled Veterans Act; The Housing Supply Expansion Act; and The Helping More Families Save Act. Text of the bill is available here, and a section-by-section summary is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/the-one-big-beautiful-bill-protects-rural-hospitals,The One Big Beautiful Bill Protects Rural Hospitals,2025-07-30,2025,2025-07,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--Through the Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP), the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) makes the single largest investment in rural health care since the Medicare Modernization Act of 2003. Rural hospitals have faced ongoing issues for many years, including low patient volumes, inadequate workforces, crumbling infrastructure, outdated technology and changing reimbursement trends. The fiscal vulnerabilities they face are multifaceted and often unique to each facility. The $50 billion rural hospital fund is intended to provide immediate relief to rural hospitals while allowing facilities to establish the tools necessary to be successful in the long term. “This legislation makes the largest investment in decades in rural health care, ensuring states have the resources they need to address the unique challenges facing their rural hospitals,” said Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho). “This is an efficient way to ensure the sustainability of our rural health care facilities while protecting taxpayer dollars from waste, fraud and abuse.” Read the fact sheet about the Rural Health Transformation Program HERE. Key Points About the Rural Health Transformation Program: The Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) supplies $50 billion to stabilize and strengthen rural hospitals and providers. Fifty percent of the $50 billion funding allocation will be divided equally among states that submit an application to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). The remaining 50 percent will be distributed to states based on a formula developed by the CMS Administrator. The law requires the CMS Administrator to consider a state’s rural population, proportion of health care facilities in rural areas and situation of hospitals that serve a high proportion of low-income patients. Assuming all 50 states apply and are approved, each state will receive at least $100 million per year for five years. Because rural hospitals and providers face vulnerabilities that are multifaceted and unique, the RHTP allows the states--who know the issues in their communities better than the federal government--to work with providers to determine the best use of funds. This will give rural hospitals the tools to stabilize their finances in the short term and offer states the opportunity to create a long-term plan. Click HERE to learn more about the Finance Committee provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-warner-lead-bipartisan-push-urging-timely-deployment-of-federal-funds-to-community-lenders,"Crapo, Warner Lead Bipartisan Push Urging Timely Deployment of Federal Funds to Community Lenders",2025-07-29,2025,2025-07,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Mark R. Warner (D-Virginia), co-chairs of the Senate Community Development Finance Caucus, today led a bipartisan group of Senators in a letter to Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Russell Vought, urging swift action to disburse congressionally-appropriated funding from the Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Fund. The letter calls for transparency and timeliness in deploying the $324 million allocated in the Fiscal Year 2025 spending package to support over 1,400 CDFIs across the country. CDFIs serve as vital engines of economic growth and financial inclusion in some of the nation’s most underserved communities, leveraging federal investment to provide loans, capital and financial services in areas that are often overlooked by traditional financial institutions. “Since its inception over three decades ago, the CDFI Fund has proven critical to the CDFI sector’s success and has met the mission to create a public-private partnership to promote access to capital in our most underserved rural and urban communities,” wrote the Senators. “Each year, CDFIs leverage federal dollars from the CDFI Fund with private-sector investment to boost small business formation, increase housing production, and deliver new capital to America’s forgotten communities.” The CDFI Fund was established in 1994 to promote access to capital in distressed communities. Each year, it enables CDFIs to leverage private capital alongside federal support to build housing, expand access to credit, and drive job growth in low-income areas. In the FY25 appropriations package, Congress allocated $324 million to support the CDFI Fund’s programs. However, as of this month, significant delays remain in awarding and obligating those funds, creating uncertainty for the more than 1,400 certified CDFIs that rely on the Fund for program continuity and impact. “It’s imperative that congressionally-approved funds for the CDFI Fund are deployed strategically and in a timely manner. Delay in the obligation of funds hinders critical projects in our states and could constrain the flow of capital to businesses and consumers who need it the most,” pressed the Senators. “To date, the CDFI Fund has yet to announce and disburse awards for five programs within its portfolio even though application periods closed months ago. Furthermore, other programs have yet to publish applications for the current fiscal year. The uncertainty around the deployment of federal funds from the CDFI Fund is concerning but can be addressed expeditiously. Therefore, we request that your Office issue a spending plan to Congress outlining the timelines for the obligation of all discretionary funds. The plan should provide Congress and the CDFI community with certainty that there will be continuity in the programs that have been lawfully funded.” In addition to Senators Crapo and Warner, the letter was also signed by U.S. Sensators Cory Booker (D-New Jersey), John Boozman (R-Arkansas), Bill Cassidy (R-Louisiana), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Steve Daines (R-Montana), Dick Durbin (D-Illinois), Ruben Gallego (D-Arizona), John Hickenlooper (D-Colorado), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Mississippi), Jim Justice (R-West Virginia), John Kennedy (R-Louisiana), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minnesota), Gary Peters (D-Michigan), Jack Reed (D-Rhode Island), Mike Rounds (R-South Dakota), Chuck Schumer (D-New York), Tim Scott (R-South Carolina), Tim Sheehy (R-Montana), Tina Smith (D-Minnesota), Chris Van Hollen (D-Maryland), Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-Georgia), Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi), Ron Wyden (D-Oregon) and Todd Young (R-Indiana). Today’s letter to vote follows a March letter to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, also led by Crapo and Warner and signed by 23 Senators, emphasizing the bipartisan support for the CDFI Fund and highlighting the fund’s critical role in providing capital to underserved communities. A copy of today’s letter is available here and text is below. Dear Director Vought, We write to request information on the Office of Management and Budget’s efforts to deploy FY25 funding provided to the CDFI Fund. As you know, the Full-Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act of 2025 appropriated $324 million for the CDFI Fund and prescribed those funds to support over 1,400 CDFIs in rural and urban communities. As your Office seeks to implement and execute on this funding legislation, we urge you to swiftly obligate all discretionary funding provided by Congress to the CDFI Fund in a timely manner. Since its inception over three decades ago, the CDFI Fund has proven critical to the CDFI sector’s success and has met the mission to create a public-private partnership to promote access to capital in our most underserved rural and urban communities. Each year, CDFIs leverage federal dollars from the CDFI Fund with private-sector investment to boost small business formation, increase housing production, and deliver new capital to America’s forgotten communities. It’s imperative that congressionally-approved funds for the CDFI Fund are deployed strategically and in a timely manner. Delay in the obligation of funds hinders critical projects in our states and could constrain the flow of capital to businesses and consumers who need it the most. To date, the CDFI Fund has yet to announce and disburse awards for five programs within its portfolio even though application periods closed months ago. Furthermore, other programs have yet to publish applications for the current fiscal year. The uncertainty around the deployment of federal funds from the CDFI Fund is concerning but can be addressed expeditiously. Therefore, we request that your Office issue a spending plan to Congress outlining the timelines for the obligation of all discretionary funds. The plan should provide Congress and the CDFI community with certainty that there will be continuity in the programs that have been lawfully funded. Thank you for your consideration of our request. We stand ready to work with the Administration to support CDFIs and the communities that they serve. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/lewiston-tribune-dont-believe-all-the-false-claims-about-the-big-beautiful-bill,Lewiston Tribune: Don’t Believe All the False Claims About the Big Beautiful Bill,2025-07-28,2025,2025-07,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"In response to the July 11 Lewiston Tribune opinion piece “What Mike Crapo did with his vote” by Marc Johnson: I was proud to stand next to President Donald Trump when he signed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act into law because it will greatly benefit Idahoans by preventing the largest tax increase in history, making pro-growth tax policies permanent to improve the economic outlook for Idaho families and businesses, and providing additional tax relief to hardworking Idahoans and job creators. It also ensures a more responsible use of taxpayer dollars by eliminating waste, fraud and abuse in federal spending programs and reducing deficit spending. Despite the significant benefits the law will deliver for everyday Idahoans, critics have repeatedly put forward false claims that the law overwhelmingly benefits the wealthy, shreds the social safety net and puts rural hospitals at greater risk of closure. Opponents of President Trump’s bill have steadily launched the misleading narrative that the new law is “tax cuts for billionaires and corporations” to try to hide the fact that it prevents massive across-the-board tax hikes — to the tune of more than $4 trillion — and provides targeted tax relief that overwhelmingly benefits low- and middle-class families and workers. According to the nonpartisan Joint Committee on Taxation — which previously estimated the bill provides more than $600 billion in new tax relief to middle-class households — the largest proportional benefits in new tax relief go to workers and families making less than $50,000. New policies like a standard deduction boost, an increased child tax credit, enhanced child care affordability, no taxes on tips, no taxes on overtime, additional tax relief for seniors and savings accounts for children are hardly benefits for “billionaires.” Where Medicaid is concerned, opponents of curbing federal government spending have engaged in the politics of fear, warning that hospitals will close, people will lose coverage and lives are at risk. The truth is curbing waste, fraud and abuse in the Medicaid program provides past-due and desperately needed improvements to the program and does not jeopardize rural hospitals. While Medicaid was created to help pregnant women, children, seniors and Americans with disabilities, in recent years, Democrats have incentivized states to enroll healthy Americans and noncitizens into the Medicaid program, driving up costs for taxpayers and risking the program’s sustainability for those who need it most. As a result, Medicaid spending has ballooned, with outlays increasing 50% since 2019. This rate of expansion is unsustainable and puts the future of the program at risk. Rural hospitals have faced ongoing issues for many years, including outdated technology, an inadequate workforce and inappropriate reimbursement structures. There are multiple federal programs designed to support rural facilities and the One Big Beautiful Bill does not alter any of these programs. It does, however, establish a $50 billion Rural Transformation Fund to provide additional relief to rural hospitals, 50% of which will be divided equally among states. This means Idaho’s rural hospitals will receive significant, immediate financial assistance. And because rural hospitals’ vulnerabilities are unique, it allows the states — which know the issues in their communities better than the federal government — to work with providers to determine the best use of funds. At the same time, the bill ends the gimmicks and loopholes that other states have used to get higher Medicaid payments from the federal government. These changes do not affect Idaho, which has been a responsible steward of federal taxpayer dollars. But for the states that need help re-focusing their Medicaid programs, the aforementioned rural hospital fund can serve as a bridge, allowing them to establish the tools necessary to stabilize vulnerable facilities in the short-term while creating a long-term rural transformation plan. A far cry from gutting health care, the bill arguably makes the single largest investment in rural health care since the Medicare Modernization Act of 2003. It is an efficient way to direct federal taxpayer dollars that ensures the sustainability of our rural health care facilities while protecting Idaho taxpayers from waste, fraud and abuse. The law also takes commonsense steps to ensure Medicaid payments are not going to certain noncitizens, beneficiaries who have died or are enrolled in multiple states, and increases the frequency of eligibility verifications for able-bodied adults. It establishes work requirements for able-bodied adults and asks them to work, enroll in school or volunteer for 20 hours per week in order to receive taxpayer-subsidized Medicaid coverage. This does not apply to anyone who is disabled, pregnant or caring for young children, among other exemptions. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act is significant and sweeping, and I expect questions from Idahoans to better understand its impact. But it is important that the facts do not get buried by the many false narratives and misleading rhetoric being advanced. I continue to maintain extending pro-growth tax policy, delivering targeted tax relief for middle-class families and workers, and reining in wasteful spending is the best way to restore economic prosperity and opportunity for Idahoans, and this law takes necessary and overdue steps to do just that. Crapo, R-Idaho, represents Idaho in the U.S. Senate, where he chairs the Finance Committee. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-tillis-colleagues-introduce-legislation-to-increase-housing-supply-reduce-costs,"Crapo, Tillis, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Increase Housing Supply, Reduce Costs",2025-07-25,2025,2025-07,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina), Tim Scott (R-South Carolina), Ruben Gallego (D-Arizona), Katie Britt (R-Alabama), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) and Alex Padilla (D-California) recently introduced the bipartisan Housing Supply Expansion Act of 2025, which would modernize the federal definition of “manufactured housing” to include modular or prefabricated homes built without a permanent chassis. By allowing off-chassis manufactured homes, the bill expands consumer access to more efficient and cost-effective designs, providing greater architectural flexibility to better integrate into existing neighborhoods. “We must find new, innovative ways to expand affordable housing venues so more individuals can achieve the American Dream of owning their home,” said Senator Crapo. “It is time to throw out established norms and cut bureaucratic hurdles that stand in the way of innovative designs to increasing affordable housing.” “I’m proud to support this commonsense legislation that expands housing options for hardworking families in North Carolina and across the country,” said Senator Tillis. “By modernizing the definition of manufactured homes, we can encourage innovative and affordable designs and help more Americans achieve the dream of homeownership.” “Manufactured housing plays an important role in helping more Americans access homeownership, but we need to make sure outdated regulations aren’t preventing newer, potentially more innovative models from coming to market,” said Senator Scott. “This legislation will remove red tape and lower the costs of building these types of homes, increasing access to affordable housing opportunities for Americans across the country.” “Manufactured homes are some of the most affordable housing solutions on the market, but outdated laws are preventing newer, safer models from becoming widely available,” said Senator Gallego. “Our bipartisan bill makes a simple update to allow for greater design flexibility and bring down the cost of manufactured homes.” “We need to build as many homes as we can to address our national shortage, and we can’t let outdated rules needlessly constrain supply,” said Senator Schatz. “Our bill will unlock manufactured homes in both urban and rural areas around the country, making manufactured homes and all housing more accessible and affordable.” “With this small adjustment, our legislation would help increase the production of affordable housing in California during a historic housing crisis,” said Senator Padilla. “Simply modifying the definition of manufactured houses would cost the government nothing and could unlock greater design flexibility while increasing the desperately needed affordable housing supply.” Full text of the bill is available HERE. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/magic-valley-times-news-the-one-big-beautiful-bill-will-help-idahos-rural-hospitals,Magic Valley Times-News: The One Big Beautiful Bill Will Help Idaho’s Rural Hospitals,2025-07-24,2025,2025-07,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) has been signed into law, providing significant benefits to Idahoans, including cutting taxes for working families, promoting American manufacturing and energy dominance, and strengthening health care programs to support our most vulnerable populations. Nevertheless, the “politics of fear” have continued and disinformation misleads Idahoans about the law’s impact on Idaho’s health care system. In reality, this law represents the largest investment in rural health care in decades. The OBBBA ensures a more responsible use of taxpayer dollars by ending loopholes certain states use to get higher Medicaid payments from the federal government. There are two main tools states use to draw down more funds: state-directed payments and provider taxes. However, it is important to know that Idaho is not one of the states playing games with federal funding. Idaho does not use state-directed payments and does not have non-nursing home provider taxes above 3.5 percent. A responsible steward of taxpayer dollars, Idaho will not be affected by these reforms. Instead, Idaho’s rural hospitals will benefit from a new Rural Health Transformation Program that allocates money to all states, not just those using gimmicks to draw down more federal money. This $50 billion rural hospital fund is available to all states and 50 percent will be divided equally among states. This means Idaho stands to gain at least $100 million per year for five years. This is arguably the single largest investment in rural health care in more than 20 years. While it provides a way for states that do rely disproportionately on federal funding to make a financial plan, states like Idaho can provide immediate relief to rural hospitals and establish the tools necessary to be successful in the future. To understand how the bill’s reforms will save taxpayer dollars, it is important to understand how state-directed payments and provider taxes work. State-directed payments are used with Medicaid managed care and allow states to increase rates to providers over the base reimbursement rate. The Biden Administration expanded these payments to reach as high as the average commercial rate, much higher than those routinely paid by federal health programs. The OBBBA prohibits new state-directed payments over Medicare rates immediately and gradually phases down existing payments beginning in 2028. Again, Idaho does not currently use state-directed payments, but there is nothing in the law to prevent it from using these payments in the future. For provider taxes, states levy these fees on hospitals and other entities, then use that revenue to collect more federal dollars. For every dollar states spend on Medicaid, the federal government matches at a higher rate. The match is nine-to-one for the Obamacare expansion population, which gives states an incentive to spend more on healthy, able-bodied individuals than on vulnerable patients. The OBBBA stops provider tax gaming immediately and incrementally lowers states’ maximum rate beginning in 2028 until it reaches 3.5 percent. Because Idaho does not currently have a non-nursing home provider tax above 3.5 percent, it is ahead of the curve. Recognizing nursing homes overwhelmingly serve vulnerable patients, Congress exempts those provider taxes from the phase down. Curbing waste, fraud and abuse in the Medicaid program provides past-due and desperately needed improvement to the program and does not jeopardize rural hospitals. The states that have relied on financing gimmicks have necessary budgetary decisions to make in the years ahead. However, the reality is for states like Idaho, this bill represents a reward for the wise stewardship of taxpayer dollars and a historic investment in rural health care. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-blumenthal-warren-file-major-richard-star-act-as-amendment-to-must-pass-defense-bill,"Crapo, Blumenthal, Warren File Major Richard Star Act as Amendment to Must-Pass Defense Bill",2025-07-23,2025,2025-07,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Richard Blumenthal (D-Connecticut) and Elizabeth Warren (D-Massachusetts) announced they are filing the Major Richard Star Act as an amendment to the annual must-pass defense bill, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Currently, only veterans with disability ratings above 50 percent and more than 20 years of service are eligible to receive the full amount of their U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) retirement and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) disability payments--leaving behind more than 50,000 combat-injured military retirees. If adopted, the Senators’ Major Richard Star Act will fix this unjust policy for medical retirees with a combat-related disability--providing them their full VA disability and DOD retirement payments. “The Major Richard Star Act corrects a severe injustice for combat-wounded veterans,” said Senator Crapo. “The support for this correction is clear. Though the namesake of our legislation is no longer with us, we must pass this fix on behalf of the more than 50,000 veterans, including hundreds in Idaho, who stand to benefit.” “The Major Richard Star Act would correct one of the deepest injustices in our present veterans’ disability system. As an amendment to the NDAA, it would enable tens of thousands of combat-injured veterans to collect the full benefits they’ve earned,” said Senator Blumenthal. “Right now they’re denied fair, complete compensation because they are subject to a dollar-for-dollar offset of their VA disability and military retirement benefits. It’s unacceptable--and I’m joining my colleagues from both sides of the aisle to right this wrong by seeking to attach our legislation to this year’s NDAA. With more than 31 cosponsors, adopting our amendment is a commonsense next step to finally provide these military retirees who already sacrificed so much the benefits they need and earned.” ""Our veterans put their lives on the line for this country, and it’s time our government gives them the full benefits they’ve earned,” said Senator Warren. “Including this bill in the NDAA will ensure the federal government keeps its promise to our veterans."" This bipartisan legislation is named in honor of Major Richard A. Star, a decorated war veteran who was forced to medically retire due to his combat-related injuries. Major Star sadly lost his battle with cancer on February 13, 2021. The Senators’ legislation has 76 bipartisan cosponsors, and is supported by the following military, veterans and survivor organizations: Air Force Sergeants Association (AFSA), Air & Space Forces Association (AFA), American GI Forum, The American Legion, American Logistics Association, American Military Society, American Veterans (AMVETS), America’s Warrior Partnership, American WWII Orphans Network, Armed Forces Retiree Association, Army Aviation Association of America (AAAA), Association of Military Surgeons of the United States (AMSUS), Association of the United States Army (AUSA), Association of the United States Navy (AUSN), Blinded Veterans Association (BVA), Blue Star Families, Burn Pits 360, Catholic War Veterans of the USA & Auxiliary, Chief Warrant Officers Association of the US Coast Guard (CWOA), Code of Support Foundation, Commissioned Officers Association of the U.S. Public Health Service, Inc. (COA), Disabled American Veterans (DAV), Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services, Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States, Fleet Reserve Association (FRA), Gold Star Spouses of America, Grunt Style Foundation, Gold Star Wives of America (GSW), Healing Household, Heroes Athletic Association, Hire Heroes USA, HunterSeven Foundation, Japanese American Veterans Association, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), Jewish War Veterans of the United States of America (JWV), K9s for Warriors, Marine Corps League (MCL), Marine Corps Reserve Association (MCRA), Military Chaplains Association of the United States of America (MCA), Military Family Advisory Network, Military Officers Association of America (MOAA), Military Order of the World Wars, Military Order of the Purple Heart (MOPH), Mission Roll Call, National Association of State Directors of Veterans Affairs (NASDVA), National Defense Committee, National Guard Association of the United States, National Military Family Association (NMFA), Naval Enlisted Reserve Association (NERA), Non Commissioned Officers Association (NCOA), Operation First Response, Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA), Project Sanctuary, The Ranger Leadership and Policy Center, Quality of Life Foundation, Reserve Organization of America (ROA), Sea Service Family Foundation, Stronghold Freedom Foundation, Student Veterans of America, TBI Warrior Foundation, Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), The Retired Enlisted Association (TREA), The Independence Fund (TIF), United States Army Warrant Officers Association (USAWOA), United States Coast Guard Chief Petty Officers Association (USCG CPOA), United Through Reading, VetsFirst/United Spinal Association, Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA), Wounded Paw Project and Wounded Warrior Project (WWP). ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/the-one-big-beautiful-bill-drives-business-growth,The One Big Beautiful Bill Drives Business Growth,2025-07-23,2025,2025-07,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--The One Big Beautiful Bill Act drives economic growth by making key business provisions permanent, giving businesses the certainty they need to invest, hire and grow. “Permanent tax policy provides businesses with the certainty they need to invest, save and plan for the future, which will power economic growth and ignite the U.S. economy,” said Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho). Key wins: Full expensing for domestic R&D to encourage domestic innovation. Full expensing for new capital investments, like machinery and equipment, to boost domestic production. Restores interest deductibility to a globally competitive standard to help finance critical domestic investments. What they are saying: “The Chamber thanks Leader Thune, Chairman Crapo, and all who are working to make the pro-growth reforms of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act permanent, including the deduction for domestic R&D expenditures, 100% bonus depreciation for certain business investments, and an expanded business interest limitation. The Chamber applauds the Senate for voting to make these provisions permanent features of the tax code.” - U.S. Chamber of Commerce “[This bill sends] a swift, decisive signal that America will remain a premier destination for businesses to invest, hire and grow.” - Business Roundtable “I applaud Chairman Mike Crapo, Leader John Thune and their Senate colleagues for advancing international tax policies that keep the U.S. the top destination for global investment. These provisions will help sustain American jobs, drive innovation, and reinforce a stable tax environment that attracts cross-border capital and world-class know-how.” - Global Business Alliance President and CEO Jonathan Samford ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-statement-at-executive-session-to-consider-ustr-treasury-nominations,"Crapo Statement at Executive Session to Consider USTR, Treasury Nominations",2025-07-22,2025,2025-07,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.—U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) delivered the following remarks at an executive session to consider the nominations of Joseph Barloon to be a Deputy United States Trade Representative (USTR) and Brian Morrissey, Jr. to be General Counsel for the Department of the Treasury. As prepared for delivery: “We meet today to consider favorably reporting the nominations of Joe Barloon, who is nominated to serve as Deputy USTR and Ambassador to the World Trade Organization (WTO) and Brian Morrissey, who is nominated to serve as the General Counsel of the Treasury Department. “The meeting this morning will provide members with the opportunity to make remarks on the nominees. Following statements, we will recess briefly then proceed to our nominations hearing this morning. Later today, we will notify members of the time and location of the vote on Mr. Barloon and Mr. Morrissey. “During his hearing, Mr. Barloon discussed his plan to work in good faith with WTO Members to advance the interests of the United States. Importantly, based on his prior tenure as General Counsel to the U.S. Trade Representative, Mr. Barloon understands the critical role the WTO plays in ensuring market access for our farmers and businesses of all types. If confirmed, Mr. Barloon will work to restore U.S. leadership at the WTO. “Building on prior Treasury Department experience, Mr. Morrissey is well-suited to provide critical legal and policy advice to the Secretary and other senior Department officials. He is exceptionally qualified for the position, and his nomination received bipartisan support from Treasury General Counsels dating back to 1977. I was encouraged to hear that he will prioritize a close working relationship with Congress to ensure that the Department effectively implements all laws Congress sends to it. “I will vote in favor of both nominations and I encourage all of my colleagues on the Committee to do the same.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-statement-at-treasury-hhs-nominations-hearing,"Crapo Statement at Treasury, HHS Nominations Hearing",2025-07-22,2025,2025-07,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.—U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) delivered the following remarks at a nomination hearing to consider Jonathan McKernan to be an Under Secretary of the Treasury and Alex Adams of Idaho to be Assistant Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary for Family Support. As prepared for delivery: “Thank you to our nominees, Mr. McKernan and Dr. Adams, for being here today. Congratulations on your nominations and thank you both for your willingness to serve. “Today, we will first hear from Jonathan McKernan who is nominated to serve as the Under Secretary for Domestic Finance at the Treasury Department. “The Domestic Finance office develops policies and guidance for Treasury Department activities in areas involving financial institutions, federal debt finance, financial regulation and capital markets. Sensible guidance in these areas better ensures financial stability and the growth and resilience of our economy. “Mr. McKernan has a demonstrated track record of support for sound and balanced regulation. As a member of the Board of Directors at the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), Mr. McKernan opposed burdensome rulemakings, such as the Basel III Endgame Proposal, which would have hindered economic growth and reduced lending to households and businesses. “He also served in senior advisory roles on the staff of the Senate Banking Committee, the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) and the Treasury Department. “Mr. McKernan, I look forward to working with you, if confirmed, to bolster and protect our domestic financial system. “We will also hear from Dr. Alex Adams--from Eagle, Idaho--who is nominated to serve as the Assistant Secretary for Family Support, which oversees the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). “ACF plays a vital role in supporting some of America’s most vulnerable populations, including foster care and adoption assistance, both of which have garnered bipartisan interest from this Committee. It is imperative that this agency is led by someone with a deep understanding of these complex issues, a commitment to sound fiscal management, and a proven track record of delivering results. “Dr. Adams’ service as the Director of Idaho’s Department of Health and Welfare has prepared him to lead ACF. He has overseen a staff of nearly 3,000 individuals and an annual budget of $5.5 billion and delivered clear results for Idahoans. “As Director, Dr. Adams placed a strong emphasis on child welfare, working with the Idaho State Legislature to enact laws to extend foster care to age 23, allow kin-specific licensing standards, and enhance time to permanency. “Dr. Adams also has a strong record on budget and efficiency, having served as Governor Little’s budget and regulatory director. He has demonstrated a keen eye toward fiscal responsibility, reducing regulatory burden and maximizing the impact of taxpayer dollars. This experience will be invaluable as he oversees the varied programs under ACF's purview. “His nomination has also received letters of support from a broad range of different stakeholders, which I request to be entered into the record. “Thank you again to our nominees for their time today.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/finance-committee-advances-ustr-treasury-nominations,"Finance Committee Advances USTR, Treasury Nominations",2025-07-22,2025,2025-07,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--The U.S. Senate Finance Committee today advanced the nominations of Joseph Barloon to be a Deputy United States Trade Representative (USTR) and Brian Morrissey, Jr., to be General Counsel for the Department of the Treasury, each by a vote of 14-13. Following the vote, Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) issued the statement below: “Each of the nominees advanced by the Committee today will bring vital experience to their respective roles. Mr. Barloon will work to advance the Unites States’ trade interests at the World Trade Organization as the Administration reestablishes U.S. leadership and will be an incredible advocate for American businesses and farmers. Mr. Morrissey is well-suited to provide critical legal and policy advice to the Secretary and other Treasury officials, and has made it clear he will work closely with Congress to ensure the Department effectively implements all laws. I look forward to each nominee’s confirmation by the full Senate.” Executive session information can be found here. Read Chairman Crapo’s full statement at the nomination hearing here, and his statement at the executive session here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-applauds-cms-efforts-to-root-out-fraud-saving-taxpayers-billions,"Crapo Applauds CMS Efforts to Root Out Fraud, Saving Taxpayers Billions",2025-07-21,2025,2025-07,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.-- Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) praised the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services’ (CMS) efforts to protect taxpayer dollars after the Agency announced it has found 2.8 million Americans enrolled in multiple Medicaid or Affordable Care Act Exchange plans, the removal of which is projected to save taxpayers $14 billion annually. “This effort builds on our work in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, guarding the integrity of our health care programs and ensuring that taxpayer dollars are spent on the populations they were designed to serve. These are the commonsense steps all agencies should be taking, and I applaud Administrator Oz for his commitment to cracking down on waste, fraud and abuse,” Crapo said. Background: CMS announced that an analysis of 2024 enrollment data identified 2.8 million Americans either enrolled in Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) in multiple states or simultaneously enrolled in both Medicaid/CHIP and a subsidized Affordable Care Act (ACA) Exchange plan. As a result of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, CMS now has new tools it needs to prevent the federal government from paying twice for the same person’s care. CMS will continue to partner with states by providing the necessary resources and guidance to reduce duplicate enrollment. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-risch-reintroduce-bill-to-split-ninth-circuit-court-of-appeals,"Crapo, Risch Reintroduce Bill to Split Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals",2025-07-21,2025,2025-07,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch (both R-Idaho) have reintroduced the Judicial Reorganization Act that would split the current Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals and create a new Twelfth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. “The nation’s largest and busiest circuit court of appeals has been overburdened for years--covering more than 11,000 cases annually from nine Western states and two U.S. territories,” Crapo said. “The Ninth Circuit’s significant backlog and inefficiency impedes the administration of justice throughout the region. The time is now to divide the court to reflect the West’s massive population growth and provide greater access to justice for all.” “The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals has long reflected the values of California, which dominates its justices and judicial cases,” said Risch. “The Judicial Reorganization Act would split and modernize the Ninth Circuit, allowing for more manageable caseloads and justice that aligns with the values of Idaho.” Currently, western states are subjected to an overly encumbered, inconsistent and slow judiciary. This stems from having the largest circuit court in the nation in terms of geography, population and workload. The Ninth Circuit has jurisdiction over 40 percent of the landmass of the United States and one-in-five Americans. One fifth of all pending federal appeals and 56 percent of all immigration cases in the nation are filed within the Ninth Circuit. With 29 appellate judges, the court also has more than double the average number of authorized judgeships among the 13 circuits. Additionally, the population and geographic expanse the Ninth Circuit covers have experienced explosive growth since the court’s creation in 1891. Creating a new circuit would solve the inefficiencies associated with the size of the Ninth Circuit and expand many Americans’ access to justice. The Judicial Reorganization Act would divide the current Ninth Circuit into two new circuits: A new Ninth Circuit covering California, Guam and Hawai’i; A Twelfth Circuit with jurisdiction over Alaska, Arizona, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon and Washington. The legislation would also increase the total number of judges in the two circuits to 31--adding one appellate judge to each court, as requested by the United States Judicial Conference. Eighteen appellate judges would serve in the Ninth Circuit and 13 appellate judges in the Twelfth Circuit. The legislation would authorize the appropriation of funds needed to provide additional court facilities and implement the change. The full text of the bill is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/idaho-to-receive-429-million-in-pilt-funding-for-community-services,Idaho to Receive $42.9 Million in PILT Funding for Community Services,2025-07-21,2025,2025-07,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch (both R-Idaho) announced 44 local governments in Idaho will receive a total of $42.9 million in Payments in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) funding for 2025. Since local governments cannot tax federal lands, annual PILT payments help cover the costs associated with maintaining community services. “Where the federal government owns large plots of land and does not pay local property taxes in rural communities, it has a responsibility to provide resources for vital services such as firefighting, police protection, construction of public schools and roads, and search-and-rescue operations,” said Crapo. “PILT payments give Idaho’s 44 counties much-needed stability for essential services.” “Each of Idaho’s 44 counties rely on PILT payments to maintain and provide essential community services,” said Risch. “I remain fully committed to funding PILT to ensure local governments can offset the nontaxable, federal land within their borders.” Crapo and Risch have been long-term proponents of ensuring the long-term viability of the PILT program. The U.S. Department of Interior (DOI) collects more than $20.7 billion in revenue annually from commercial activities on public lands. A portion of those revenues is shared with states and counties. The balance is deposited into the U.S. Treasury, which, in turn, pays for a broad array of federal activities, including PILT funding. Payments are calculated based on the number of acres of federal land within each county or jurisdiction and the population of that county or jurisdiction. A full list of funding by state and county is available HERE. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/the-one-big-beautiful-bill-cuts-taxes-for-workers,The One Big Beautiful Bill Cuts Taxes for Workers,2025-07-21,2025,2025-07,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--The One Big Beautiful Bill Act invests in workers, delivering on President Trump’s promises to end tax on tips and overtime for millions of hardworking Americans. It also lessens the administrative burden on gig workers and small businesses. “This legislation enables the tipped and hourly workers who keep our economy running to keep more of each hard-earned paycheck,” said Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho). Key wins: No tax on tips for millions of tipped workers. No tax on overtime for millions of America’s hourly workers. Repeals the Democrats’ onerous IRS reporting requirements on gig workers. Increases the 1099-MISC threshold, reducing the paperwork burden for small businesses and workers. What they are saying: “We greatly appreciate the Senate’s inclusion of other AICPA priorities in its bill, particularly: repealing the American Rescue Plan Act’s lowered threshold for Form 1099-K to $600 for an unlimited number of transactions; and increasing the filing threshold for Forms 1099-NEC and Forms 1099-MISC from $600 to $2,000, adjusted for inflation.” - AICPA “The Coalition for 1099-K Fairness strongly supports the Senate Finance package’s inclusion of language to raise the 1099-K reporting threshold. This commonsense provision would increase the threshold to over $20,000 in total payments and more than 200 transactions per calendar year—effectively stopping the implementation of a burdensome $600 threshold, regardless of transaction count, scheduled to take effect in 2026 under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARP).” - Coalition for 1099K Fairness ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/idaho-wins-with-one-big-beautiful-bill,Idaho Wins with One Big Beautiful Bill,2025-07-18,2025,2025-07,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--According to estimates from the Council of Economic Advisers (CEA), the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) will raise real wages in Idaho by $3,600 to $6,400 over the next four years. The CEA also finds hundreds of thousands of Idahoans will benefit from the bill's tax benefits for seniors, no tax on tips and no tax on overtime. The legislation will also protect 35,000 jobs in Idaho that would have been at risk if the Trump tax cuts had expired. Idaho wages and take-home pay: OBBB will raise wages in Idaho by an inflation-adjusted range of about $3,600 to $6,400 over the next four years. A typical family with two children in Idaho can expect to see higher take-home pay of about $7,200 to $10,200 with OBBB compared to if it had not passed. 300,000 seniors in Idaho could benefit from tax relief for seniors in the legislation. Around 24 percent of all employees in Idaho regularly work overtime and could benefit from the no tax on overtime. Idaho jobs, businesses and housing: OBBB will protect about 35,000 full-time equivalent jobs in Idaho over the next four years, relative to if the Trump tax cuts had expired. 41,000 firms in Idaho could be eligible for the law's permanent small business deduction, or about 45 percent of all firms. OBBB makes the Opportunity Zone program permanent, which will lead to increased investment in low-income communities across Idaho. Read the CEA’s summary HERE on how the OBBB will help Idaho. Click HERE to learn more about the Finance Committee provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/the-one-big-beautiful-bill-boosts-small-businesses,The One Big Beautiful Bill Boosts Small Businesses,2025-07-18,2025,2025-07,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--The One Big Beautiful Bill Act delivers targeted relief to America’s small businesses, making their tax deduction permanent, repealing onerous IRS reporting regulations and enabling workers to benefit from businesses’ success. “Freeing small businesses from onerous reporting requirements and providing them certainty through a permanent small business deduction allows them to expand and invest,” said Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho). “That means more jobs and higher wages in our local communities, on top of new provisions that allow taxpayers to keep more of their hard-earned paychecks.” Key wins: Permanent small business deduction, enabling job creation and spurring local economic activity. No tax on tips for millions of tipped workers. No tax on overtime for millions of America’s hourly workers. Repeals the Democrats’ onerous IRS reporting requirements on gig workers. Increases the 1099-MISC threshold, reducing the paperwork burden for small businesses and workers. What they are saying: “H.R. 1 extends the pro-growth policies from the TCJA and builds on their success, expanding key incentives from the 2017 law while introducing new provisions that further support manufacturing investment in the United States.” - National Association of Manufacturers “Making the small business deduction permanent is NFIB’s number one legislative priority and the most important thing Congress can do to help small businesses and their workers.” - National Federation of Independent Businesses “The ‘One Big, Beautiful Bill,’ now on its way to President Donald J. Trump for his signature, includes tax policies that will strengthen the restaurant and foodservice industry, enabling restaurant owners and operators across the country to create jobs, invest in their business and provide certainty for their local economies.” - National Restaurant Association ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-statement-on-senate-passed-rescissions-package,Crapo Statement on Senate-Passed Rescissions Package,2025-07-17,2025,2025-07,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) issued the following statement on the Senate’s passage of the $9 billion rescissions package: “I cast my vote in support of rescinding funds for wasteful foreign aid programs that have deviated from their original intent or that do not promote American interests. By reducing waste, fraud and abuse in federal spending, we can better ensure the long-term viability of the programs most critical for our national security and for global health programs that protect Americans from the spread of fatal diseases.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z https://fulcher.house.gov/2025/07/16/id-10185a2a-86ef-404d-be33-356782ca06d8/,Fulcher Honors Fallen Idaho Firefighters on House Floor,2025-07-16,2025,2025-07,Republican,House,ID,Russ Fulcher,F000469,fulcher.house.gov,fulcher,https://fulcher.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CONTACT: Christianné Allen, Christianne.Allen@mail.house.gov WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher (Idaho-01) took to the House floor to honor the firefighters killed in an ambush attack in North Idaho. Kootenai County Fire and Rescue Battalion Chief Frank Harwood and Coeur d’Alene Fire Department Battalion Chief John Morrison were fatally shot, and Coeur d’Alene Fire Department engineer Dave Tysdal was severely injured, on June 29, 2025. Congressman Fulcher’s remarks, as delivered: Speaker, I rise to honor the life, service, and sacrifice of two of Idaho’s bravest who we lost way too soon during an appalling ambush attack in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. On Sunday, June 29, 2025, Battalion Chiefs Frank Harwood and John Morrison answered the call, as always, to reports of a fire on Canfield Mountain. But upon arriving at the scene, they were cruelly ambushed by gunfire from a disturbed, cowardly individual. As a result of shots fired, Chiefs Harwood and Morrison tragically succumbed to their injuries, and their colleague, Dave Tysdal, an engineer with the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department, was severely wounded – but thankfully, is now recovering. This evil act against our firefighters does not represent the Idaho way. I ask all Idahoans and Americans to pray for a full recovery for Mr. Tysdal and for comfort for all families involved. These men represent the very best of Idaho. Their courage, heroism, and dedication will never be forgotten. To watch Congressman Fulcher’s remarks, click here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-risch-schmitt-introduce-bill-to-increase-penalties-for-crimes-against-first-responders,"Crapo, Risch, Schmitt Introduce Bill to Increase Penalties for Crimes Against First Responders",2025-07-16,2025,2025-07,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and Eric Schmitt (R-Missouri) introduced the Graham Hoffman Act, which would make it a federal crime to assault first responders. “The devastating loss of Idaho firefighters John Morrison and Frank Harwood and severe injury of David Tysdal during a premeditated, deadly ambush last month in Coeur d’Alene remind us of the real dangers and sacrifices first responders make every day to protect our families and communities,” Crapo said. “Their loss impels us to strengthen the law and deter further violence to ensure justice is fully meted on any individual who attacks our law enforcement or first responders.” “Last month’s evil attack on first responders in north Idaho is a stark reminder of the dangers our brave men and women in uniform face every day,” said Risch. “The Graham Hoffman Act is commonsense legislation to properly punish those who assault the men and women who keep our communities safe. Vicki and I continue to pray for the victims of the north Idaho ambush, their loved ones and all affected by this reprehensible act.” “Graham Hoffman was a courageous firefighter-paramedic whose life was tragically cut short at the hands of a known criminal who had been released from custody shortly before the attack. This tragic loss underscores the urgent need to protect our first responders, who put their lives on the line to serve our communities. This legislation, in honor of Graham, ensures that anyone who assaults or kills a first responder faces the full force of federal law,” said Schmitt. Crapo and Risch are joined by U.S. Senators Josh Hawley (R-Missouri), Ashley Moody (R-Florida), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Bill Hagerty (R-Tennessee) and Maggie Hassan (D-New Hampshire). On June 29, 2025, Kootenai County Fire and Rescue Battalion Chief Frank Hardwood and Coeur d’Alene Fire Department Battalion Chief John Morrison were killed in an ambush while responding to a brush fire on Canfield Mountain. Another first responder, Coeur d’Alene Fire Department Engineer Dave Tysdal, was seriously injured and remains in recovery. This legislation is named in honor of Graham Hoffman, a paramedic from Kansas City, Missouri, who was attacked and killed in the line of duty by a known criminal on April 27, 2025. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z