Government reorganization bill passes Senate 35-15

Senator Staci Appel of Ackworth

Senator Staci Appel of Ackworth’s closing remarks on the Government Reorganization and Efficiency bill (SF 2088):

“For 25 years, this body has delayed, postponed, and put off the heavy lifting of reorganizing state government. This task was daunting, but a necessary step to ensure that all Iowans benefit from an efficient, streamlined and more responsive state government.

When our economy stumbles, we’re tested. When budget challenges present themselves, we have two options: we could make short term, piecemeal efforts or take up the difficult task of rethinking good governance. This bill is an opportunity to change how state government does its business. This bill isn’t just about saving money for next year, but it is about saving money for Iowa for years to come.

In these tough times, when Iowans from Ackworth to Zearing are tightening their belts, trimming down family budgets and making tough decisions; the task before us becomes even more critical: we must reduce the size of government, eliminate wasteful spending and redundant programs and ensure that Iowa’s fiscal house is in order. The legislation before us today is one of the many steps towards accomplishing this goal. Today, with this legislation, we hold state government accountable to the people of Iowa.”