Ensuring government works for you

Government works best when it is accountable to the people it serves. That’s why we approved several initiatives this year to increase accountability and transparency in Iowa government.

> Expect honorable behavior: We toughened the Iowa Senate’s ethics rules so that you can find out how your citizen legislators make a living while also serving in the Senate (SR 3).

> Know how your tax dollars are spent: We approved a one-stop, searchable, online budget database that will allow you to see where your tax dollars are going. You’ll also be able to review all Iowa tax rates and learn about state tax credits and who receives those credits (HF 45).

> Stay up to date on what’s happening: We strengthened Iowa’s “sunshine” laws to help ensure that Iowans are informed about government decisions that impact them. In addition, we increased the penalty for violating Iowa’s open meetings and open records laws (SF 289).  

> Enjoy equal representation: We approved new districts (based on the latest census numbers) that ensure equal congressional, state senate and state house representation for every Iowan. The nonpartisan method we use here in Iowa is considered the best in the nation (HF 682).

> Shine a light on special interests: We created an online, searchable database that you can use to research lobbyists, their positions on legislation and their clients (HF 126).

> Stronger checks and balances: We unanimously approved reforms—with the Governor’s support—that limit budget transfers when the Legislature is not in session. We also improved the state’s long-term budgeting process by requiring Iowa’s nonpartisan Revenue Estimating Conference to make a three-year estimate of the state’s revenues (HF 148).

> Felons will repay undeserved income: We passed legislation requiring public employees put on administrative leave because of felony charges to pay back wages if convicted (HF 493).

The goal of these initiatives is to increase government accountability and transparency because you deserve to have your interests fairly and effectively represented.