For generations, Iowans could count on a great public education from Iowa schools to set them up for success in life. Today, however, many Iowans are watching with dismay as a decade of underinvestment from Republican leadership has resulted in Iowa dropping to the middle of the pack in national rankings.
Senate Democratic Leader Zach Wahls today appointed small business owner and community leader Deidre DeJear of Des Moines to the Temporary Redistricting Advisory Commission. The Commission is responsible for conducting hearings to gather input from Iowans about new maps that will be drawn for legislative and Congressional districts.
Last week Republicans took money from our kids’ public schools to fund private school vouchers for the privileged few. They’re now launching a puny school funding plan that fails to make up for four years of neglect. Our kids and schools need much more help to overcome the learning challenges of the COVID19 pandemic.
A new bill would allow student athletes in Iowa to profit from promotional use of their names, images, and likenesses as early as July. SF 245 would allow student athletes to financially gain from marketing opportunities. Six states have enacted similar legislation.
Iowa Senate Democratic Leader Zach Wahls rejected the private school vouchers bill being advanced by the Governor and Iowa Republicans that would drain millions of dollars away from Iowa’s public schools.
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.
In the weeks and months ahead, we will balance our legislative responsibilities and our leadership responsibilities. As Legislators, we have the responsibility of faithfully discharging the duties of Senator and upholding the Iowa Constitution. We also have the responsibility of following the best available public health guidance, and leading by example so Iowans are not forced to choose between life and liberty or safety and happiness.
A group of Iowa Senate Democrats are calling on the Iowa Legislature and Gov. Reynolds to pass immediate assistance for food and other basic needs as early as possible in the 2021 legislative session.
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.
Iowa Senate Democratic Leader Zach Wahls today announced Senators who will lead the Democrats’ efforts on the various committees.
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