As Governor Branstad, his team and allies try to get their stories straight, injured workers face bleak future

Governor Terry Branstad

Statement from Sen. Bill Dotzler, Chair of the Senate Economic Development Appropriations Subcommittee

“It’s great theater to watch Governor Branstad, his senior advisors and his political allies attempt to get their stories straight about who pushed for the firing of Chris Godfrey.

“Unfortunately, the biggest victims in this drama are Iowa workers who are injured on the job.

“Iowa’s Workers Compensation System is nationally recognized for carefully balancing the needs of injured workers with the costs to employers. By taking unprecedented steps to oust Godfrey as the Workers’ Compensation Commissioner, Governor Branstad is playing dangerous, political games with Iowa injured workers.

“Under Godfrey’s leadership, Iowa’s Workers’ Compensation System was ranked the most effective system in the nation. Legislators and business groups alike were pleased with his performance.  In 2009, after three years on the job, Godfrey was reconfirmed by the Iowa Senate on a 49-0 vote.

“Perhaps it will be necessary to bring the Governor, his senior staff and their political allies before the Government Oversight Committee to get to the bottom of this outrageous turn of events.”