Taxes: Reward work, not wealth

February 3, 2022 Senate Staff 0

Our plan rewards work, not wealth. We believe that we need to support Iowa workers, who are the backbone of our economy, with lower costs and tax cuts, rather than what Republicans want to do, which is supporting the super-rich and corporations who continue to get richer while working Iowans get left behind.

Economy recovering thanks to Biden, Dems

October 15, 2021 Senate Staff 0

Pres. Biden & Congressional Democrats provided much-needed help to Iowans through the ARP. Statehouse Republicans want to give more tax cuts for the wealthiest few. We support tax cuts for hard-working families–those who need the relief. We oppose more state handouts & sweetheart deals for Gov. Reynolds’ financial donors & friends.

Statement on tragic deaths at the Anamosa State Penitentiary

March 23, 2021 Senate Staff 0

“Our thoughts and prayers are with their families, neighbors and co-workers. In addition to ensuring that justice is served, we must also ensure that state leaders address chronic understaffing and other systemic problems at our prisons before we have more deaths.”
–Sen. Todd Taylor, Ranking Member, Justice System Budget

Statement on the latest REC estimates

March 19, 2021 Senate Staff 0

Governor Reynolds and the Republican-controlled Legislature have taken a hands-off approach to boosting economic opportunities to Iowans during the pandemic. Fortunately, the American Rescue Plan will bring much needed relief to Iowa businesses, workers, schools, local governments and other sectors of the economy.

Our COVID Recovery Plan

January 27, 2021 Senate Staff 0

Iowans have been through a lot over the last year, particularly with the pandemic. It’s not over yet, but it is time for the Legislature to do all it can to help Iowa build back better, bigger and stronger than ever. Our focus this session is on a COVID Recovery Plan to help Iowa rebound from the ravages of the last year.

Public Education Disaster Week

January 24, 2021 Senate Staff 0

Monday, two harmful bills are being rushed through the Senate Education Committee before Iowans have time to respond.  SSB 1065 would divert taxes for public schools to private schools and SSB 1064 would make Iowa schools unsafe during the pandemic.

Iowa Legislature Must Act to Feed Hungry

December 16, 2020 Senate Staff 0

We propose using the state’s ending balance or the state’s “rainy day funds” to provide $30 million or more in immediate supplemental food assistance for Iowans directly and through food banks, food pantries, and other feeding entities in Iowa.

Gov. Reynolds’ Misuse of Federal Pandemic Relief Funds

December 8, 2020 Senate Staff 0

Senator Claire Celsi is formally requesting that Republican leaders in the Iowa Senate convene a Senate Government Oversight meeting. The Legislature must ensure that all CARES dollars are used properly. If the State fails to do so, Iowa could be required to return misspent money.

Statement on Governor’s misuse of federal COVID funds

October 19, 2020 Senate Staff 0

Instead of directing more money to testing and contact tracing, paid sick leave for essential workers, food assistance, childcare subsidies, additional money for rent assistance, unemployment insurance, utility assistance, providing PPE to healthcare workers and educators, and to help schools prepare for the winter season — and myriad of other uses —  Governor Reynolds is using the CARES Act money as a means to fund pet projects and make Iowa’s budget appear flush with excess funds.