The House Appropriations Committee has approved the Fiscal Year 2026 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act with a vote of 33 to 28. The measure is aimed at promoting American energy dominance, reducing federal spending, and reversing regulations from the Biden administration.
Subcommittee Chairman Mike Simpson stated, "Advancing the Fiscal Year 2026 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Act is the next step toward establishing American energy dominance, reversing harmful Biden-era regulations, and ensuring access to, and protection of, our public lands for recreation and hunting."
Chairman Tom Cole added that the committee's approval marks a decisive action to manage natural resources while protecting taxpayer dollars. He said, "With today’s full committee approval, we are taking decisive action to steward America’s natural resources and protect taxpayer dollars."
The bill provides a total discretionary allocation of $37.971 billion, which is $2.54 billion less than the previous fiscal year. It fully funds the Payments in Lieu of Taxes program estimated at $550 million and prioritizes funding for Tribes and Wildland Fire Management.
Key aspects include bolstering U.S. national security by reducing reliance on foreign countries for critical minerals and promoting domestic mining. The act also champions American energy by supporting oil and gas development both offshore and onshore.
Additionally, it reduces funding for the Environmental Protection Agency by 23% while blocking various Biden-era regulations related to emissions and environmental policy.
During markup sessions, amendments were adopted including technical changes proposed by Simpson which designate the First Lady Melania Trump Opera House among other provisions.
A summary of this bill along with other documents related to its amendments can be accessed through provided links.
