East Idaho Times

The House Committee on Appropriations has advanced the Fiscal Year 2025 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson, Chairman of the House Interior and Environment Appropriations Subcommittee, released a statement following the Committee's approval of the bill.

“The Fiscal Year 2025 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Act helps reduce energy costs, protects American jobs, and ensures that we can continue access to our public lands to recreate, hunt, and develop on our natural resources. While reining in unnecessary spending, this bill also directs funding where it is needed most. This includes fully funding the Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) program, making great strides to address critical needs across Indian Country, and permanently fixes wildland firefighter pay. I am grateful to Chairman Cole for his leadership, and I am pleased we are one step closer to getting this bill across the finish line,” said Rep. Simpson.

House Committee on Appropriations Chairman Cole also commented on the measure: “Our nation is full of natural wonders that provide everything from power to recreational enjoyment. The FY25 Interior measure demonstrates proper stewardship of these vital resources. From the protection of forests and traditional hunting and fishing to U.S. energy and mineral independence, the impact of this bill on everyday life is extensive. As the first Native American to lead this committee, I commend the strong investments that uphold our nation’s trust and treaty responsibilities to our tribal communities. We also provide a permanent pay fix for our brave federal wildland firefighters who protect our public lands and communities. Chairman Simpson proved that we can rein in big government without sacrificing the essential needs of the country."

Key highlights of the bill include:

- Reducing EPA funding by 20%.

- Expanding access to critical minerals.

- Fully funding the PILT program.

- Protecting oil and gas production.

- Limiting abuse of the Endangered Species Act.

- Including a permanent wildland firefighter pay fix.

The measure was approved by a vote of 29 to 25.