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

WASHINGTON- Today, the United States House of Representatives passed H.R. 6938, the Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act, 2026. Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson supported this advancement and secured critical funding for the Idaho National Laboratory (INL). This bill champions America's nuclear deterrent and strengthens national security, restores energy dominance, and supports the Trump administration's policy initiatives.

"The Idaho National Laboratory is a world leader in nuclear energy research and a hub for remarkable advancements in nuclear technologies," said Rep. Simpson. "INL has long worked to advance America's nuclear technology and strengthen our national security, and I have been proud to support their efforts in Congress. I am confident that the future of nuclear energy is bright under President Trump and Secretary Wright. As a longtime member and former Chairman of this critical subcommittee, I am pleased to see this legislation expand America's nuclear capabilities and address the future of nuclear energy."

"Nuclear energy is experiencing unprecedented momentum, and we deeply appreciate the strong bipartisan support from Congress that has made this possible," said Idaho National Laboratory Director John Wagner. "We extend our special thanks to U.S. Representative Mike Simpson for his longstanding championship of nuclear energy and his unwavering commitment to Idaho National Laboratory. His leadership has been instrumental in positioning the laboratory at the forefront of America's nuclear resurgence."

Highlights of the bill include:

• Provides funding for INL's infrastructure and operations.
• Provides funding for INL's Microreactor Application Research Validation and Evaluation (MARVEL) project.
• Provides funding for the Demonstration of Microreactor Experiments (DOME) Test Bed at INL.
• Funding for a variety of advanced reactor construction and demonstrations.
• Funding for further research and development of advanced Tri-structural Isotropic (TRISO) and High-Assay Low Enriched Uranium (HALEU) reactor fuel.
• Funding for the Idaho Cleanup Project on the INL Site.

The measure was approved with a vote of 397-28.