2020 Session Wrap-up
A quick list of the good, the bad and the ugly bills of the 2020 legislative session.
Energy & Enviroment
Tax-hike proposal violates Iowans’ trust
In 2010, voters approved a Natural Resources and Outdoor Recreation Trust Fund to be filled with a portion of state sales tax if the sales tax was increased. Governor Reynolds now wants to raise the sales tax, but is reneging on the agreed-to amount for natural resources and recreation.
MORE
Future Caucus tours renewable energy facilities
Four state lawmakers who created the Iowa Future Caucus this year led a tour of renewable energy facilities, including an ethanol plant, a biodiesel plant, a wind farm and a solar energy facility.
2018 End-of-Session Report
This session, we heard from thousands of Iowans who work hard but struggle to get by. They just want a decent-paying job and the chance to lead a happy, healthy life. Our job in the Legislature is to listen and work to improve the lives of everyday Iowans.
Consumer Advocate defends successful energy efficiency programs
Energy efficiency has saved millions of dollars in energy savings and benefits all customers with lower rates. It has added thousands of jobs in energy efficiency across Iowa. …As passed by the House, SF2311 is a utility bill good for utilities that will result ultimately in higher rates for customers.
Comprehensive water solutions bill
State Senator Rob Hogg of Cedar Rapids has introduced comprehensive water solutions legislation that would, if enacted, provide a 15-year framework to clean up Iowa’s water and safeguard against flood and drought damage across the state.
Water quality deserves a REAL solution
Water quality is a real problem that deserves a real solution. SF 512 fails to ensure accountability through monitoring to measure whether the state is achieving the goal of cleaner water and healthier soils.
Legislators highlight Cedar Rapids recycling success
Before Iowa repeals the bottle bill signed by Governor Bob Ray nearly 40 years ago, it is important for legislators and the public to know how it is actually working today.
Senator Hart hosting Iowa Water Quality Summit in DeWitt
All are invited to learn and to lend your voice to this discussion of water use and how to ensure clean water for drinking, recreation, farming and more. Share your knowledge, priorities and activities so that we all can become better informed.
Latest state deficit figures show GOP budget is ‘out of whack’ and hurting Iowa families
“Iowa is not in a recession. Iowa is experiencing slow revenue growth because the policies of Governor Reynolds and legislative Republicans are out of whack. Delaying tax refunds for Iowa families and other gimmicks will not solve this budget mess. Republicans must stop showering tens of millions on large tax giveaways to out-of-state corporations. These tax giveaways now top $500 million annually and are the fastest growing part of the state spending.