CONGRESSMAN BILL SALI

10/28/2008
Sali: VA Must Implement Two Year-Old Law - BOISE, Idaho – Congressman Bill Sali today called on the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to immediately implement improvements to veterans’ benefits, and strongly criticized their unacceptable delay. MORE

10/24/2008
Sali plan would reform earmark process, end abuse - WASHINGTON, D.C. – In an effort to bring transparency and accountability to the earmark process, Congressman Bill Sali introduced landmark legislation that would require full and immediate public disclosure when Members seek congressionally-directed spending allocations. MORE

10/23/2008
Sali demands answers regarding financial crisis, role played by regulators - WASHINGTON, D.C. – At today’s hearing of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, U.S. Rep. Bill Sali (R-ID), asked for further explanation from former Chairman Alan Greenspan, Chairman Chris Cox and former Secretary of the Treasury John Snow on the financial crisis and the role of federal regulators in it. MORE

10/23/2008
Sali works to make healthcare more affordable, accessible - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bill Sali (R-ID) has introduced a plan to make health care more affordable and accessible for Idahoans and Americans all across the country. MORE

10/16/2008
Sali asks for full public accounting of Freddie, Fannies finances - LEWISTON, Idaho – Congressman Bill Sali and 32 other members of Congress are asking that elected leaders and the public have full access to the documents and decisions made by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac – details that would help shed light on the circumstances leading to their unraveling. MORE

10/3/2008
Sali votes against Bailout II - WASHINGTON, D.C. – For the second time this week, Congressman Bill Sali cast a vote against a $700 billion taxpayer-funded economic bailout. MORE

10/1/2008
Sali: Congress Needs to Hold Codifying NLCS - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bill Sali called on Senate leaders to halt action on a bill giving more authority to the National Landscape Conservation System (NLCS) until the Inspector General completes his investigation into waste, fraud or abuse - and possibly unlawful action - at the agency. The NLCS is a division within U.S. Bureau of Land Management, responsible for management of 26 million acres of specially-designated public land, including land in Idaho. The BLM administratively created the NLCS in 2000, and legislation is currently pending before the Senate to codify and expand the NLCS. Information about possible serious misconduct by top officials of the NLCS came to light as a result of a request by House Republicans for internal agency documents. MORE

9/29/2008
Sali votes against $700 billion bailout plan - WASHINGTON, D.C. – After repeated meetings with White House and Treasury officials, financial experts and colleagues, Congressman Bill Sali joined a bipartisan majority of lawmakers to defeat a bill that would have used $700 billion in taxpayer money to bailout Wall Street investors who made bad investment choices. MORE

9/25/2008
Sali: County payments should be included in legislation - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Removal of funds for the Secure Rural Schools program from a bill that would extend certain tax reductions is unacceptable for Idaho and other states whose schools and county governments are dependent on the monies to run effectively, U.S. Rep. Bill Sali (R-ID) said today. MORE

9/24/2008
Sali: President's speech on bailout fails to answer key questions - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bill Sali released this statement after President Bush’s speech to the nation on the current financial crisis: MORE

9/17/2008
Sali supports legislation that encourages adoption - WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Bill Sali, a member of the Congressional Coalition on Adoption, today supported legislation that will encourage adoption of children in the United States.MORE

9/17/2008
Sali votes to protect Second Amendment rights - WASHINGTON, D.C. –  Idaho Congressman Bill Sali voted today in support of a bipartisan bill, containing language which he cosponsored, that reaffirms the Second Amendment rights of Washington, D.C. residents and, thereby, all Americans. The measure passed the House 266-152 and now moves to the Senate for further action.MORE

9/16/2008
Sali: Rhetoric Won’t Relieve Idahoans' Pain at the Pump - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bill Sali today criticized House Democrats for passing sham energy legislation that does nothing to provide relief to Americans hit hard by high fuel prices. MORE

9/15/2008
110th Congress in review: Sali Keeps Fiscal Responsibility Promises to Idahoans - WASHINGTON, D.C. – A new report issued by the nonpartisan Congressional Research Service (CRS) says Congressman Bill Sali has voted against more than a trillion dollars in spending while still supporting the nation’s military and veterans. MORE

9/15/2008
Sali’s leadership hailed, Idaho congressman named 'Friend of the American Motorist' - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bill Sali has been named a “Friend of the American Motorist” by Americans for Prosperity (AFP).  Sali has also accepted the Thomas Jefferson Award from the International Foodservice Distributors Association.    MORE

9/10/2008
House Republican Leadership Tasks Sali with Leading Floor Energy Debate - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Asked by House Republicans to lead the charge on energy today, Idaho Congressman Bill Sali called on his Democrat colleagues to address energy prices for the American people. Using a House procedural motion, Sali tried to get the House to vote on legislation that would help lower fuel prices. However, Democrats again turned from common-sense energy policies and rejected addressing the number one issue facing American families and companies. MORE

9/10/2008
Sali Legislation Clears Committee, Next to Get Vote in House - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Sali’s resolution honoring the 232nd anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, H.Con.Res. 386, was unanimously approved by the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee today.    MORE

9/9/2008
Sali urges passage of bill to protect Second Amendment rights - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Idaho Republican Bill Sali said today, during a House Oversight and Government Reform Committee hearing, that Congress should pass a bipartisan bill that would protect the Second Amendment rights of Washington, D.C. residents. MORE

9/4/2008
Sali asks feds to explain decision for closing road at Lake Lowell - CALDWELL, Idaho – Congressman Bill Sali today asked the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation to explain its decision to close a road near Lake Lowell in Canyon County and to provide documentation that backs up the claims that the lake is vulnerable to terrorist attack. In a letter to Bureau of Reclamation Regional Director J. William McDonald, Sali said his visit to Lake Lowell last Friday did not convince him that a real threat exists to Riverside Road and the lake. However, Sali said he would continue to gather information. MORE

8/28/2008
Sali named a 'Taxpayer Hero' by Council for Citizens Against Government Waste - WASHINGTON, D.C. – WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bill Sali today was named a Taxpayer Hero by the Council for Citizens Against Government Waste. The group announced its decision based on its examination of votes in which Sali voted against wasteful government programs and spending. The group designates Taxpayer Heroes as those members who scored between 80 and 99 percent on 100 votes cast in 2007. Sali scored 93 percent. MORE

8/15/2008
Sali unveils website additions highlighting his energy plan - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bill Sali today announced new features to his website focused on the rising gas prices and his comprehensive plan to address this issue. MORE

8/4/2008
Sali asks Bush to veto lands lock-up - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bill Sali has spearheaded a letter to President Bush, asking him to veto a bill that would lock up 26 million acres of public land across the nation, including Idaho. MORE

8/1/2008
Sali votes to support military, veterans - WASHINGTON, D.C. –  Congressman Bill Sali voted Friday in favor of a bill that includes greater support for America’s troops and veterans. H.R. 6599, which passed almost unanimously, includes funding for veterans healthcare benefits and services, military construction projects and for the facilities needed to house and train military personnel at home and abroad. The bill also provides funding for the operation and maintenance of monuments and cemeteries devoted to the men and women in uniform who have fought to protect our freedom. MORE

8/1/2008
Sali, other Republicans demand vote on energy independence - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bill Sali was among the House Republican lawmakers who refused to leave the House floor Friday and continued to speak out for legislation to make America energy independent, even as Democrats turned out the lights and turned off the microphones, shutting down for a lengthy vacation after doing nothing to help bring down gas prices. MORE

7/30/2008
Sali: Recess is not the answer to crippling energy costs - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Despite unbearable prices at the pump and Congress’ failure to pass meaningful legislation to bring relief to Americans, Democrat House Leadership today passed a resolution to adjourn for five weeks of recess. Sali voted against the resolution, which passed 213-212. MORE

7/30/2008
Sali introduces tax credit to help with rising gas prices - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bill Sali has introduced a bill that would provide real, tangible - and timely - help to the tens of millions of Americans hit hard by skyrocketing energy prices. MORE

7/25/2008
Sali Named Defender of Economic Freedom - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bill Sali has won the Club for Growth “Defender of Economic Freedom” award.  MORE

7/24/2008
Sali advocates for people with disabilities - WASHINGTON, D.C. – At a House Natural Resources committee hearing today, Congressman Bill Sali questioned the Forest Service on its efforts to ensure access to public lands to people with disabilities.  MORE

7/23/2008
Sali Works to Protect State Gun Rights - WASHINGTON, D.C. – At a House Natural Resources Committee markup today, Congressman Bill Sali spearheaded amendments calling for State and local laws to govern the use of guns on National Park lands.  MORE

7/19/2008
Sali asks Idahoans to mail gas receipts; will give them to Speaker Pelosi - POST FALLS, Idaho – Congressman Bill Sali today urged Idahoans to send their fuel receipts to his offices so that he can forward them to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Sali said he wants to illustrate for Speaker Pelosi the hardship that high gas prices are having everyday in Idaho’s 1st Congressional District. MORE

7/15/2008
Sali: Congress fails Idaho’s seniors by cutting successful Medicare program - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bill Sali again voted today to protect thousands of Idaho seniors from dramatic cuts to a successful Medicare program that offers greater flexibility for seniors to make their own healthcare decisions. MORE

7/15/2008
Sali Urges Congress to Stop the “War on the Poor” and Offer Real Energy Solutions - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today Congressman Bill Sali joined more than two dozen leaders from the African American, civil rights, agriculture, Christian, senior citizen and consumer rights communities at a Capitol Hill rally to demand that the federal government stop the “War On The Poor” being waged through policies that restrict American energy production and raise energy costs. MORE

7/10/2008
Sali resolution hails Supreme Court's Second Amendment ruling - WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a salute to the recent decision by the U.S. Supreme Court for upholding the Second Amendment to the Constitution, Congressman Bill Sali today offered a bipartisan resolution honoring the Court’s ruling. MORE

7/10/2008
Idaho communities to receive emergency water grants - BOISE, Idaho – Two Idaho communities are receiving emergency grants to help make critical repairs to water systems, Congressman Bill Sali announced today. East Lizard Butte Water Corp in Canyon County and the City of East Hope in Bonner County have been awarded $150,000 each to perform work needed to repair their water systems. The money comes from Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants. MORE

7/9/2008
Sali Leads National Debate on Forest Fires - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bill Sali today led a national debate on forest fires, saying Congress needs to do more to actually prevent forests and rangeland from going up in flames – as is happening now across the county. Sali, a member of the House Natural Resources Committee, served as the Republican debate “manager,” allocating speaking time to his colleagues as they debated a bill to dedicate funding for wildfire suppression. During the debate, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi complimented Sali for his leadership. MORE

7/3/2008
Sali’s Effective Leadership Translates to Awards from Major Groups - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Sali recently received five major awards in recognition of his leadership in the 110th Congress. “I am humbled to accept these awards and honored to receive recognition in standing up for Idahoans and our values,” said Sali.     Sali accepted the following awards:   “Hero of the Taxpayer” from Americans for Tax Reform. President of ATR, Grover Norquist, commented, “These Congressional Ratings allow taxpayers to see, when it comes to their hard-earned money, exactly who the heroes and the ‘Villains’ are in Congress. It is clear that Sali has proven to be a hero.” “Guardian of Seniors' Rights” award for protecting Social Security and the "Benjamin Franklin Award" for supporting repeal of the onerous estate/death tax from the 60 Plus Association.  MORE

6/26/2008
Sali and Western Caucus Offer Comprehensive Energy Solution While Democrats’ Solution is Recess - WASHINGTON, D.C. – The comprehensive “Americans for American Energy Act” (AAEA) was introduced today by U.S. Rep. Bill Sali and the other members of the House Western Caucus.  The measure would open ANWR and the OCS to increase production of American crude oil and give the right incentives to boost conservation, improved efficiency and bring alternative energy online sooner. MORE

6/26/2008
Sali defends Idaho's low electric rates from new threat - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Idahoans enjoy the lowest electric rates in the nation, and new regulations on electric cooperatives would threaten families and businesses who enjoy those low rates, Congressman Bill Sali said Thursday.  The House Oversight and Government Reform Committee is looking into whether to impose new regulations on electric cooperatives following the financial unraveling of an electric cooperative in Texas.  Sali noted that electric cooperatives in north Idaho serve more than 100,000 residential and business customers. MORE

6/26/2008
Sali hails U.S. Supreme Court decision on gun ban - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bill Sali released the following statement today, hailing the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling on the Second Amendment: MORE

6/25/2008
Democrats hamper energy development, disregard Constitution - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Republican Members of the House Natural Resources Committee walked out during a hearing today to protest the Majority party’s efforts to lock-up and further restrict energy resources in America at a critical time while also undermining the form of government instituted by the Founding Fathers. MORE

6/24/2008
Sali votes to protect seniors from cuts to key program - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Sali Votes to Protect Idaho Senior Citizens and calls for a clean vote on Medicare payments for physicians.MORE

6/24/2008
Sali again urges American energy exploration as price gouging bill fails - WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Congressman Bill Sali today, again, insisted that Congress pass legislation to end the ban on American energy exploration and production, as a bill to impose new penalities on price gouging failed to collect enough votes to pass the House. MORE

6/19/2008
Sali questions decision against funding Caldwell program - WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a hearing Thursday of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, Congressman Bill Sali questioned a high-ranking U.S. Department of Justice official for a decision to deny a grant that would assist a successful Caldwell program that benefits at-risk youth.MORE

6/19/2008
Sali votes for funding for troops, veterans - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bill Sali released the following statement on the Emergency Supplemental Appropriations BillMORE

6/18/2008
Sali: FDA owes women an explanation for ban on bioidentical hormones - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bill Sali today called on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to explain why it has distributed warning letters to pharmacists across the country, restricting the compounding and sale of a hormone replacement therapy used by women.  MORE

6/17/2008
Sali: McCain right to call for offshore oil, gas exploration - WASHINGTON, D.C. –  Congressman Bill Sali (R-ID) today applauded Sen. John McCain for calling for an end to Congress’ ban on offshore oil and gas drilling and production.  In addition, today with Republican leadership Sali reiterated the need for responsible exploration of U.S. energy resources to help lower gas prices for American families and small businesses. MORE

6/12/2008
Sali Calls for Continued Hydropower in Northwest - At a hearing of the Natural Resources Subcommittee on Water and Power, Congressman Bill Sali urged his colleagues to continue supporting hydropower as essential to the nation’s energy portfolio. MORE

6/12/2008
Sali introduces 'Always Think Freedom' legislation - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bill Sali today introduced legislation addressing constituents concerns with the practices of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).  MORE

6/5/2008
Sali: Record High Tax Increases Would Hurt Idahoans, Further Weaken Economy - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bill Sali today voted against a budget blueprint that calls for the largest tax increase in American history in order to subsidize even more runaway federal spending. MORE

5/29/2008
ATF apologizes to Congressman Sali for inaccurate information - WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Acting Director Michael J. Sullivan today apologized to Congressman Bill Sali and confirmed the agency reported inconsistent versions and details of a program giving agents engraved Leatherman tool kits. MORE

5/22/2008
Sali seeks to advance technology in farm, wildfire management - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bill Sali is spearheading an effort to get the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to give agriculture and natural resource industry representatives a role in creating regulations for the operation of unmanned aircraft. Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) aircraft can be used to provide farmers with real-time data on crop yields and help farmers make site-specific decisions about water and chemical use. The aircraft can also be used to monitor forest fuel loads and potentially locate disease or fire problems in the forest. MORE

5/20/2008
Sali demands straight answers from ATF - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bill Sali today demanded that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) provide straight answers regarding the demise of its “Always Think Forfeiture” campaign.  Last week, the agency credited Sali’s office with halting the program, but later reportedly told the news media that Sali’s complaint came after the program’s elimination.  MORE

5/19/2008
Jolliffe, Shine join Sali staff - BOISE, Idaho – Congressman Bill Sali announced today that he has hired Lane Jolliffe to work as natural resources state assistant in his Boise office. Jolliffe handled natural resources issues for C.L. “Butch” Otter’s congressional and gubernatorial offices. Jolliffe also worked for many years for the Idaho State Department of Agriculture. MORE

5/16/2008
Sali gets federal agency to end anti-gun, anti-private property marketing program - WASHINGTON, D.C. – A federal agency has halted a controversial program giving agents engraved Leatherman tool kits reminding them to focus on the seizure of private property, after Congressman Bill Sali, (R-Idaho), raised objections. MORE

5/15/2008
SALI CALLS DAM-BREACHING PROPOSAL 'POLITICIZATION OF SCIENCE' - WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Bill Sali today argued against breaching dams in the Pacific Northwest, noting that such a proposal would hurt the economy and the environment for no purpose other than placating extreme environmentalists. MORE

5/14/2008
Sali votes for new compromise Farm Bill - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bill Sali voted today in favor of the Food, Conservation and Energy Act of 2008 (H.R. 2419).  The measure passed the House 318-106 and the Senate is expected to vote on it tomorrow. MORE

5/13/2008
Sali votes to increase oil supplies - MORE

5/13/2008
Idaho delegation wins pro-potato language in Farm Bill compromise - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Members of Idaho’s Congressional Delegation have convinced a House-Senate conference committee to include pro-potato language that could lead to white potatoes being restored as part of a program for low income women and children. MORE

5/13/2008
Sali wins top rating from conservative group - MORE

5/8/2008
Sali votes against $300 billion housing bailout - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bill Sali today voted against legislation providing a $300 billion housing bailout for those unable or unwilling to make their mortgage payments.  “Idahoans’ hard earned money shouldn’t be used to pay for the bad judgment of those financially unprepared to take on the responsibility of home ownership,” Sali said.  MORE

5/8/2008
Sali wins award for promoting English as official language - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bill Sali was recognized at the U.S. Capitol this morning by U.S. English, Inc. for his dedication to preserving the unifying role of the English language in the United States. Sali was one of a select number of House members honored with an “A in English” award based on his votes and co-sponsorships of official English legislation in the 110th Congress. MORE

5/8/2008
Vietnam Navy Squadron to receive presidential honors - WASHINGTON, D.C. –  Members of a Vietnam Navy Squadron will receive presidential honors next week thanks to efforts by Congressman Bill Sali and Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter, when he was a member of Congress. A Coeur d’Alene veteran, Kerry Bignall, will be among the honorees at next week’s event. MORE

5/7/2008
Sali votes for domestic oil production, energy independence - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bill Sali voted today for lower gas prices by promoting domestic oil production and energy independence. MORE

5/7/2008
Sali asks Chertoff to answer immigration questions - WASHINGTON, D.C. – During today's House Oversight and Government Reform Committee hearing, Congressman Bill Sali asked Secretary of Homeland Security Michael Chertoff key questions about the relationship between immigration and national security. MORE

4/30/2008
Sali successfully fights to protect property rights - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bill Sali successfully fought Wednesday to protect the private property rights of Americans. MORE

4/30/2008
Sali announces Presidential Scholar Award winner - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bill Sali announced today that the 29-member Commission on Presidential Scholars and the U.S. Department of Education jointly have selected Alexander R. Johnson of Meridian, Idaho as part of the 44th class of Presidential Scholars.  MORE

4/30/2008
Sali asks for delay in approval of Mexican Consulate - WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a letter sent today, Congressman Bill Sali asked Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice to delay opening a Mexican consulate in Boise until the government can assure Idahoans that a consulate will not foster the continued presence of illegal aliens in Idaho. The letter follows a meeting Sali had with senior State Department officials in which the Department’s bureaucrats expressed considerably more concern about whether the consular office would follow local zoning laws than whether it would aid people in breaking federal immigration laws. MORE

4/29/2008
SALI: WHITE POTATOES SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN WIC PROGRAM, CALLS FOR FARM BILL TO OVERTURN USDA DECISION - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bill Sali says the U.S. Department of Agriculture was wrong to exclude white potatoes from the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program, and he’s asking key members of Congress to overturn that decision as they write the new Farm Bill. MORE

4/28/2008
Winners of Congressional Art Contest Announced - BOISE, Idaho  – Congressman Bill Sali has announced that students from Coeur d’Alene and Spirit Lake are the winners of this year’s 1st Congressional District Congressional Art Contest, “An Artistic Discovery.” MORE

4/23/2008
Sali: Abstinence education works, helps teens avoid risky behavior - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Abstinence education does work, Congressman Bill Sali said today, noting that studies prove such education helps teens avoid risky behavior. Sali issued his comments during a hearing of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee. Sali also said taxpayer money should not be spent to promote inappropriate teen behavior. Congressman Sali's statement follows:MORE

4/21/2008
Sali: Congress deserves no pay raise - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Pointing out that Congress has failed to act on a series of vital issues, including high gas prices, Congressman Bill Sali today called on other members of Congress to join a bipartisan effort to stop automatic congressional pay increases. Sali said Congress must address half a dozen core issues, but rising gas prices reflects the latest in a long line of failings. MORE

4/17/2008
Sali calls for comprehensive fire plan - WASHINGTON, D.C. – WASHINGTON, D.C. –  Congressman Bill Sali, today sitting as Ranking Member at a House Natural Resources Committee hearing, made the case for a two-pronged approach to suppressing large wildfires as fire season nears.  MORE

4/14/2008
Sali's plain language tax form proposal passes House - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bill Sali’s bipartisan proposal to make tax forms and instructions available in plain, straightforward language passed the U.S. House of Representatives today. The action comes just one day ahead of the April 15 deadline for most Americans to file federal income tax returns.  MORE

4/11/2008
Sali: Passport security should not be outsourced - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Concerned that the privacy and security of Idahoans are at risk, Congressman Bill Sali this week introduced legislation to require that all key components U.S. passports be made in America. MORE

4/10/2008
SALI URGES CONGRESSIONAL ACTION TO PREVENT FOREST FIRES - Congressman Bill Sali today urged Congress to take action protect lives and property before this summer’s fire season. MORE

4/9/2008
Sali wins Spirit of Enterprise Award - WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Chamber of Commerce today recognized U.S. Rep. Bill Sali’s strong voting record on critical business issues during the first session of the 110th Congress.  MORE

4/8/2008
Sali wins Taxpayers' Friend Award - WASHINGTON, D.C. – WASHINGTON, D.C. –  The National Taxpayers Union today recognized Congressman Bill Sali’s strong voting record in support of taxpayers by awarding him the group’s prestigious “Taxpayers’ Friend Award.” Sali was just one of four freshmen members of Congress to get the award. Only 42 House members received the recognition from NTU. MORE

3/12/2008
Sali fights plan to lock up 2 million acres of Idaho land - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bill Sali today voted against a bill that would cut off most public access to some 26 million acres of public lands, including more than 2 million acres in Idaho. The bill, HR 2016, would codify the National Landscape Conservation System created in 2000 during the Clinton presidency and would permanently limit grazing, mining, logging, recreation and hunting. The bill passed the House Natural Resources Committee on a 24-13 vote and will next be considered by the full House. MORE

3/10/2008
Sali: Mexican consulate should not be used for illegal immigration - WASHINGTON, D.C. – A proposed Mexican Consulate planned for Idaho should not be used for the purpose of helping illegal immigrants evade U.S. law, said Congressman Bill Sali, who sent a letter to Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice asking her to weigh in on the issue. MORE

3/5/2008
Sali: House dems outdo themselves with new tax increase plan - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last year, House Democrats proposed what was then the biggest tax increase in American history.  Today, according to U.S. Rep. Bill Sali (R-ID), “The Democrats have outdone themselves in prosing ‘The Largest Tax Increase In History: The Sequel.’  This is like a really bad horror movie, but sadly, it’s real.”  MORE

2/28/2008
Sali: House passes bill to increase gas prices and hurt national security - MORE

2/28/2008
Forest Service confirms money for fires being spent on studies - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Money that could be used to reduce the damage from massive forest fires and save lives and property are being eaten up by costly environmental reviews, the U.S. Forest Service confirmed during a congressional hearing Wednesday responding to questions from Congressman Bill Sali. MORE

2/14/2008
Delegation Supports Specialty Crops in New Farm Bill - WASHINGTON, D.C. – MORE

2/1/2008
MAJORITY OF HOUSE REPUBLICANS JOIN SALI IN DEMANDING BORDER FENCE BE A PRIORITY - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Idaho Congressman Bill Sali, an emerging champion of border security in Congress, this week sent House Speaker Nancy Pelosi a letter calling for Congress to require completion of the nation’s border fence with Mexico by 2009. MORE

1/29/2008
SALI VOTES FOR STIMULUS COMPROMISE, SAYS CONGRESS MUST PASS ADDITIONAL CUTS - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bill Sali voted this afternoon in favor of the economic stimulus package for American families and businesses. Sali issued this statement following the vote: MORE

1/29/2008
SALI WINS AGREEMENT TO MAKE GOV’T CONDUCT BUSINESS IN PLAIN LANGUAGE - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bill Sali, filling in today for the Ranking Member of the House Policy, Census, and National Archives Subcommittee, supported a measure to require more clarity in federal notices and other documents.  Sali noted that if the proposed changes were applied to federal regulations it would reduce the costs of compliance on small businesses.  The Subcommittee held a hearing on H.R. 3548, the Plain Language in Government Communications Act of 2007, which it approved with Sali’s support. MORE

1/29/2008
FAMILY GROUPS RECOGNIZE SALI FOR WORK DEFENDING FAMILIES, VALUES - WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Family Research Council and Focus on the Family today awarded Congressman Bill Sali for his consistent record in support of America’s families. MORE

1/28/2008
Idahoans want an end to illegal immigration - WASHINGTON, D.C. – By Congressman Bill Sali MORE

1/19/2008
Sali issues statement on Sanctity of Human Life Day - MORE

1/15/2008
CLINTON CRONIES TARGET BILL SALI; GROUP LIES TO IDAHO CONSTITUENTS ABOUT ENERGY VOTE - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Cronies of former President Bill Clinton have decided to target Congressman Bill Sali by calling Idahoans and lying to them about Sali’s voting record. Clintonites form the backbone of the group calling itself “American Family Voices.” The group is among those making weekly calls to Idahoans and leaving phone messages with gross distortions about Sali’s voting record. MORE

1/5/2008
SALI UPDATES WEBSITE TO HELP IDAHOANS GET ACCESS TO INFORMATION - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bill Sali said today that he is using his official Web site to more effectively connect Idahoans with important resources to help them get information about vital issues affecting them. MORE

1/2/2008
SALI NOMINATES LOCAL IDAHO STUDENTS TO MILITARY ACADEMIES - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bill Sali today announced that he has nominated several local students to our nation’s military service academies for the year 2008. MORE

12/20/2007
SALI WORKS TO RESTORE BORDER FENCE GUTTED BY OMNIBUS SPENDING BILL - WASHINGTON, D.C. –  The catch-all spending bill that just passed Congress contains a provision that would gut plans for a border fence on America’s southwest border – a fence that was specifically designed to help combat illegal immigration and improve border security. Idaho Congressman Bill Sali said Wednesday that in January he will introduce a bill to overturn the fence-gutting provisions of the omnibus spending bill, which were sneaked into a 3,500-page multi-topic legislation.  With only 15 hours to study the bill before being required to vote upon it, many Members of Congress likely did not fully understand how border security would be impacted by the provisions that were approved.  Sali voted against the measure when it was first considered by the House on Monday of this week because it failed to fund American service personnel fighting in Iraq and because of the measure’s concurrent failure to provide adequate border security.  MORE

12/19/2007
CONGRESSMAN SALI VOTES TO EXTEND SCHIP, FIX ALTERNATIVE MINIMUM TAX - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bill Sali voted today to extend the State Children’s Health Insurance Program for 18 months. The bill also gives doctors temporary relief from a scheduled cut in their Medicare payments. MORE

12/13/2007
SALI, FRESHMAN REPUBLICANS DISAPPOINTED BY CONGRESS’ FAILURE TO PRODUCE RESULTS - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Freshman GOP Class President Bill Sali and other new Republican members of Congress say they’re very disappointed that Congress has failed to fund our troops in battle, failed to deliver tax relief to middle income Americans and has passed into law only one of 12 spending bills to keep the federal government operating.  Sali and his freshman classmates held a press conference today in the U.S. Capitol.  MORE

12/10/2007
SALI: NEW CABLE REGULATIONS WOULD HURT MINORITY & FAITH GROUPS, INCREASE PRICES - WASHINGTON, D.C. –  Congressman Bill Sali has joined a bi-partisan group of his colleagues in introducing a bill that would keep the federal government from using an obscure law to force costly and burdensome new regulations on the cable industry. These regulations would likely result in bigger cable bills for consumers and less access to programming, including that offered by minority or religious groups. The regulations would also make it more difficult for programmers to offer such educational programming as the Discovery Channel. MORE

12/6/2007
SALI: PORK-FILLED ENERGY BILL WILL RAISE THE COST OF FUEL, PROVIDES NO RELIEF AT THE PUMP - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Idahoans would be stuck with even higher fuel prices, a weakened economy and continue to rely on foreign dictators for oil if the energy bill that passed the House today were to become law, Congressman Bill Sali warned. The newest energy bill, H.R. 6, passed 235-181. MORE

12/5/2007
SALI VOTES TO COMBAT HUMAN TRAFFICKING, SUPPORTS FUNDING OF NEW PROGRAMS THAT MAY BENEFIT IDAHO, NORTHWEST - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bill Sali voted tonight in support of a bill that would continue the fight against human trafficking and potentially give anti-human trafficking efforts in Idaho and the Pacific Northwest a boost. MORE

11/17/2007
SALI’S PLAN TO PROTECT PRIVATE PROPERTY AND COMMUNITIES FROM WILDFIRES - Congressman Bill Sali’s plan to protect homes, property, and communities from wildfire, insects, diseases, and invasive species by reducing hazardous fuels on adjacent federal lands has been introduced with support from counties, firefighters, and forestry and agriculture experts.   MORE

11/15/2007
SALI: TSA MUST DO A BETTER JOB PROTECTING, SHOWING RESPECT TO AMERICANS - WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Transportation Safety Administration must do a better job protecting Americans from terrorists and, at the same time, treat Americans traveling for business or pleasure with respect and dignity, Congressman Bill Sali said Thursday. MORE

11/14/2007
HOUSE APPROVES CONGRESSMAN SALI’S FUNDING FOR U.S. 95 WIDENING - The U.S. House of Representatives today approved a bill containing $500,000 funding requested by U.S. Rep. Bill Sali (R-ID) for a widening project on U.S. 95. MORE

11/14/2007
BUSH SIGNS BILL CONTAINING WEST NILE MONEY - WASHINGTON, D.C. – WASHINGTON, D.C. – President Bush today signed into law the Department of Defense bill containing the $940,000 for Boise State University to research a human West Nile vaccine. Congressman Sali secured the funds in the House of Representatives with Senator Mike Crapo working to ensure its passage in the Senate. Sali said, "It's exciting to know that this research will save lives and millions of dollars in healthcare costs. Boise State University is a great research university and the right place to get this job done." MORE

11/9/2007
CONGRESSIONAL REPORT: FIVE-FOLD INCREASE IN NUMBER OF IDAHOANS PAYING ALTERNATIVE MINIMUM TAX - WASHINGTON, D.C. – A report requested by U.S. Rep. Bill Sali (R-ID) from the non-partisan Congressional Research Service (CRS) finds that for 2007 nearly 63,000 Idahoans will be subject to higher taxes under the Alternative Minimum Tax if Congress fails to act. That’s an increase of more than 443 percent. MORE

11/9/2007
SALI INTRODUCES BIPARTISAN LEGISLATION TO EXPAND THE MARKET AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR PRECIOUS METALS INVESTMENT - Congressman Bill Sali (R-ID) this week introduced a bill to help Americans diversify their retirement portfolios using precious metals. MORE

11/9/2007
SALI, CRAPO’S WEST NILE VACCINE RESEARCH PROPOSAL PASSES HOUSE - Congressman Bill Sali has secured final House approval of $940,000 in funding for West Nile vaccine research at Boise State University.  This funding passed the House of Representatives on Thursday as part of a House-Senate agreement on H.R. 3222, the 2008 Department of Defense Appropriations bill. MORE

11/7/2007
REPUBLICAN LEADER APPOINTS SALI TO HI-TECH WORKING GROUP - House Republican Leader John Boehner has named Congressman Bill Sali to his High-Tech Working Group, which is charged with expanding economic opportunities in America based on the use of advanced technology. MORE

11/6/2007
SALI VOTES TO OVERRIDE PRESIDENT BUSH’S VETO OF IDAHO WATER PROJECTS - Congressman Bill Sali says President Bush was wrong to veto of a bill containing important water infrastructure projects for Idaho. Sali voted Tuesday to override the veto of the Water Resources Development Act of 2007, H.R. 1495, which contains several projects that Sali worked to get for Idaho. The bill passed 361-54, more than the two-thirds necessary to override the veto. MORE

11/2/2007
SCHIP EXPANSION LOADED WITH PROBLEMS - In the last two weeks, Congress has voted on two bills proposing dramatic expansions of the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP). I voted against both bills and the people of Idaho deserve to know why. While both bills have been hyped as healthcare for poor kids that is not what the legislation is about.  In fact, the expansion would end up potentially providing coverage for rich kids, adults and illegal aliens.  Here’s how: MORE

10/30/2007
SALI VOTES TO CONTINUE BAN ON INTERNET TAXES - Congressman Bill Sali, a sponsor of a bill to permanently ban Internet taxes, voted Tuesday in favor of a bill that would keep the ban in place for another seven years. H.R. 3678 passed unanimously. MORE

10/30/2007
SALI CRITICIZES FLAG-FOLDING BAN, CALLS ON FEDS TO RESTORE CEREMONY FOR VETERANS - Congressman Bill Sali today called on the National Cemetery Administration (a division of the U.S. Veterans Administration) to end its poorly-conceived ban on the reciting of the meaning behind the flag-folding ceremony sometimes used at veterans funerals. MORE

10/25/2007
SALI TO INTRODUCE PLAN TO COMBAT THREAT OF FOREST FIRES, PROTECT HOMES - Congressman Bill Sali announced today that he will introduce legislation that would help reduce the risk of forest fire for homeowners and communities near federally-managed land. MORE

10/25/2007
SALI: NEW SCHIP BILL CONTAINS THE SAME OLD PROBLEMS, PUTS POOR KIDS BEHIND WEALTHY FAMILIES AND ILLEGAL ALIENS - Congressman Bill Sali issued the following statement following the passage of a new bill to expand the State Children’s Health Insurance Program, H.R. 3963. The bill passed 265-142. MORE

10/18/2007
SALI ISSUES STATEMENT ON THE DEFEAT OF SCHIP EXPANSION - Congressman Bill Sali today issued the following statement on the defeat of the proposal to expand the State Children’s Health Insurance Program. The bill would have made it easier for illegal aliens to access Medicaid and SCHIP at a taxpayer expense of almost $6 billion, allowed all families earning as much as $62,000 a year to qualify for the "children's health" program and would have added to the already 700,000 adults receiving coverage under the “children’s health insurance” program. Sali said: MORE

10/18/2007
SALI LEADS FRESHMAN REPUBLICANS IN MEETING WITH THE PRESIDENT - Congressman Bill Sali, president of the 14-member House Freshman Republican class, led a meeting of his class in a discussion with President Bush at the White House on Thursday. MORE

10/17/2007
MOTION TO RECOMMIT H.R. 2095 FEDERAL RAILROAD SAFETY IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 2007 - Mr. Speaker. Congress has a spending problem. The budget passed earlier this year anticipates spending $2.9 trillion over the next 12 months. This is more money than the total value of all goods and services produced in Germany (at 2.87 trillion), China (at 2.52 trillion), or the United Kingdom (at 2.34 trillion). MORE

10/12/2007
SALI CO-SPONSORS BILL TO ELIMINATE THE ALTERNATIVE MINIMUM TAX - Congressman Bill Sali has joined a group of leading Republicans in introducing a bill to repeal the Alternative Minimum Tax, which hurts thousands of Idahoans every year, and will reach thousands more in the years to come. MORE

10/6/2007
SALI: SCHIP BILL WOULD RAISE TAXES, HURT THE POOR - President Bush was right to veto Congress’ proposal to expand the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP). The bill is another shameless example of ill-advised bigger government with increased expense to taxpayers – Americans who are already overtaxed and overburdened. Yet to convince you that this program is somehow worthy, the Democrats made sure that the SCHIP bill contained the words “children” and “health insurance” in order to appear that Congress is doing something compassionate for poor kids who are uninsured. After all, who wants to vote against little kids? MORE

10/2/2007
SALI LEADS BIPARTISAN COALITION ASKING FOR REPORT ON HUMAN RIGHTS ABUSES IN PACIFIC NORTHWEST - Leading a bipartisan coalition of lawmakers, Congressman Bill Sali is asking the U.S. Department of Justice to provide an accounting of human trafficking in the Pacific Northwest. MORE