Rep. Simpson Applauds DOI’s Decision to Cancel Biden-era Approval of Lava Ridge Wind Project
WASHINGTON— Today, the Department of the Interior announced its decision to cancel the right-of-way for the Lava Ridge wind project. This decision follows language authored by Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson to the fiscal year 2024 enacted spending bill to require the agency to re-evaluate the decision by the Biden administration to grant a right-of-way approval for the project, which has long been opposed by Idahoans. Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson released the following statement:
“Idahoans have spoken loud and clear over the last few years: the Lava Ridge Wind Project has no place in our state. Today’s decision confirms that common sense and the will of the people prevailed. President Trump heard us, and showed that Idahoans’ voices matter. As Chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies, I’ve fought hard to stop this out of touch project by using every tool at my disposal. I’m grateful to President Trump, Secretary Burgum, and to the many Idahoans who stood up and made their voices heard.
Idahoans also owe a great deal of gratitude to leaders like Senator Risch and Governor Little, who kept this issue at the forefront with the administration. I’m especially grateful for Senator Risch’s efforts working directly with President Trump to sign and seal the day one executive order to kill this project. This decision follows my fiscal year 2024 language that was signed into law to re-evaluate the Biden administration’s reckless decision, and I am pleased to see this officially move forward. Today is a win for the people of Idaho,” said Rep. Simpson.
Rep. Simpson’s Previous Actions Against the Lava Ridge Wind Project
Rep. Simpson has been a strong vocal opponent of the Lava Ridge Wind Project and most recently authored language to prohibit any funds to approve construction activities related to the out-of-touch Lava Ridge Wind Project from being obligated unless and until the Secretary of the Interior has completed a review of the Department of the Interior’s Record of Decision.
Rep. Simpson authored language—passed by Congress and signed into law by the President —directing the Department of the Interior to reengage and incorporate feedback from the stakeholders on alternative plans before moving forward with Lava Ridge after the Biden administration failed to meet such requirements. This follows language Rep. Simpson also authored that blocked the final Environmental Impact Statement for the Lava Ridge Wind Project.
Additionally, Rep. Simpson questioned BLM Director Tracy Stone-Manning on the proposed Lava Ridge Wind Project on public lands in Magic Valley, Idaho, and if the pressure to increase renewable energy trumps the impacts on species and cultural sites.
Rep. Simpson and the Idaho Delegation introduced legislation that would prevent the Secretary of the Interior from approving a wind or solar project on public lands if the Legislature in the respective state has passed a resolution of disapproval.
Rep. Simpson, the Idaho Delegation, Idaho Governor Brad Little, and Lt. Governor Scott Bedke sent a letter to the Idaho State Director for the BLM. They expressed concerns about the proposed Lava Ridge wind farm in south-central Idaho.
