Iowa Senate Democrats

Fighting for a Better Deal for Iowans.

  • Senator Staed’s Jan. 24 Newsletter

    From the Desk of Senator Staed

    Legislative Listening Post

    Please join Representative Aime Wichtendahl and me for our first Legislative Listening Post this Saturday, 10 – 11 am, January 25th at the Ladd Library, 3750 Williams Blvd SW.

    Meet My Clerk!

    Every Iowa State Senator is helped in their legislative efforts by a clerk. Clerks are trusted aids working for a singular senator on all manner of issues. They serve as administrative assistants, communicators, schedulers, sounding boards, and confidants. Clerks help senators manage their legislative portfolios, committee and subcommittee assignments, bill filings, and amendments. They play an indispensable role in the Iowa Senate.

    I’m ever so thankful to have my partner in life by my side in the legislature. Susan has had unique work experiences as a small motel manager/operator, office manager for a retirement complex, and coffee shop owner – all of which helped prepare her for the various duties required in the legislature. When not working, she enjoys spending as much time outdoors as possible (in warm weather, that is) walking, biking and gardening. She has a voracious appetite for reading, working crossword puzzles, and beating me at Scrabble. Fun fact – when we met, I’d finish my teaching job and come work for her at her coffee shop. Now the tables are turned, and she works for me!

    Putting Iowa Families First through Paid Leave

    This week I signed on to co-sponsor a piece of legislation designed to help provide economic security to Iowa families: the Iowa Family and Medical Leave Act.

    We’ve all experienced unexpected emergencies that require our immediate attention. Unfortunately, taking time away from work to deal with those emergencies isn’t possible for many Iowa families due to the potential lost pay. This bill empowers working Iowans to care for their loved ones with one fewer worry during their time away from work. It’s a critical step in creating a better deal for Iowans through increased opportunity and economic security.

    The United States is the only industrialized nation without paid family leave for private sector workers. Here at home, 79% of Iowa private sector workers are without access to paid family leave through their employers. That’s about 1,371,000 working Iowans who could be forced to make impossible choices between caring for their loved ones and providing financial stability for their families.

    The Iowa Family and Medical Leave Act, SF109, establishes a family and medical leave insurance program to provide paid, job-protected leave for specified family and medical reasons. The bill is an extension and modernization of the unpaid, federal Family and Medical Leave Act and is reflective of present and future workforce needs.

    Putting families first means providing real coverage for working Iowans during times of emergency, and I’m proud to join the entire Senate Democratic caucus in supporting SF109.

    Private School Vouchers: Where is the Oversight?

    We’re now in Year 2 of the taxpayer-funded private school voucher program here in Iowa. As has been the case throughout the program’s short existence, we have had to deal with an appalling lack of transparency from the governor’s office, and we still have many unanswered questions. Here are a few things we know at present.

    Vouchers are now, and have always been, a subsidy for families who already sent their children to private schools.

    • This school year, 79% of voucher recipients already attended private schools. That’s a double-digit increase from Year 1.

    In most of the state, Iowa kids do not have increased access to private schools.

    • 51% of school districts have fewer than 10 students utilizing private school vouchers.

    The private school voucher program continues to vastly exceed projected costs, ballooning state spending despite shrinking revenues.

    • In Year 1, vouchers cost the state $129 million — $22 million over the estimated cost.
    • In Year 2, vouchers are estimated to cost the state $218 million — $38 million over the estimated cost.
    • In Year 3, when the income eligibility cap comes off, the governor’s budget estimates vouchers will cost the state $315 million – but it’s anyone’s guess what the real cost will be.

    There is a fundamental imbalance between public and private schools when it comes to transparency and accountability. We expect public schools to submit to oversight and governance from elected school boards, and to hold open, public meetings inviting comments, recommendations, and concerns from the community. To this point, private schools accepting voucher dollars here in Iowa are not subject to the same accountability requirements as our public schools. This lack of transparency creates a series of unanswered questions. Here are some things we still don’t know.

    • How do private schools determine their admissions standards?
    • Public schools have a duty to accept and educate any student within their district boundaries. Which children and families are being turned away from Iowa’s private schools, and for what reasons?
    • Many private schools in Iowa raised tuition rates in response to the voucher program. How are they any more accessible to Iowa families whose kids did not already attend?
    • How many Iowa children used a voucher to attend a private school, only to return to public school after finding the private school did not meet their needs?
    • Which private schools in Iowa are not requiring appropriate teacher accreditation or licensure for educators and staff?

    I believe public dollars belong in public schools, full stop. But if I can’t get my Republican colleagues to agree on that, we should at least be able to agree that it’s time for some accountability and oversight for the private schools that take taxpayer-funded vouchers.

    This Week in the Capitol

    Appreciate the League of Women Voters Linn County for continuing to host legislative forums, allowing voters access to their legislators.

    Audience questions included:

    • Dept. of Education proposed changes to science curriculum, banning the terms ‘climate change’ and ‘evolution’
    • Food insecurity and removing some youth and elderly from receiving SNAP benefits
    • Water quality and high cancer rates
    • Local control regarding property taxes
    • Reproductive rights
    • Gun violence prevention measures
    • Public Health agencies’ resources (in light of addressing future public health emergencies)
    • Immigration

    Spoke with Kayla Burkett, Public Affairs Administration with the Metro Waste Authority about the annual ‘bottle bill’ and the desire to leave it as is. MWA is the largest solid waste agency in Iowa, with a team dedicated to diverting challenging waste streams from landfills.

    MWA may be the largest waste agency, but they don’t have a Mount Trashmore!

    Also spoke with CEO Kirk Irwin; Marketing Coordinator, Kendra Schloten; and Education and Outreach Coordinator, Sarah Borzo

    #reducereuserecycle

    Annual photo with Cedar Rapidian Randy Cornelius who is a nurse anesthetist serving communities in Eastern Iowa. Always great to visit with our medical personnel about issues concerning Iowa’s health care systems and the practice of medicine.

    Veterans Day on the Hill. Thank you to Iowa Veterans for their service to our country.

    Good to visit with Paula Martinez and Joe Stutler, a Veteran from Linn County!

    Filed a couple of bills on behalf of the State of Iowa Youth Advisory Council (SIYAC). One is about adding mental health resources to school websites, the other requires school boards to have a student liaison (non-voting).

    Visiting with Bob Carlson, YMCA of Cedar Rapids CEO, about the value our Y provides the community. I’m just one of 400,000+ Iowans who belong to the YMCA (I particularly enjoy their Tai Chi classes).

    With Representatives Elinor Levin and Elizabeth Wilson

    Cecily Robinson with Easterseals Iowa & Camp Sunnyside discussing their legislative priorities which includes investments in the state Medicaid program and implementation of a schedule for rebasing HCBS rates every other year.

    Easter Seals provides needed services for adults and children with disabilities.

    Marty Lenss, the Eastern Iowa Airport Director, discussed the advancements at our airport along with aircraft maintenance training classes now occurring at Kirkwood and airport management classes at Coe.

    This is one time when it’s good things are up in the air!

    Non-partisan Legislative Services Agency’s Fiscal Legislative Analysist, Adam Broich, provided a quick overview of the general fund budget process. In order to fund the Governor’s recommendations, we will need to use funds from the Taxpayer Relief Funds (which is also one-time monies and unsustainable).

    Aron Brecht with HACAP Food Reservoir talking about the Double Up Food Bucks program. It doubles the value of federal SNAP benefits spent at farmers markets and groceries which helps people bring home more fruit and vegies and supports our local farmers. I strongly support this initiative.

    Served the sub-committee for SF4 which adds limitations to those who can become lobbyists. This bill restricts heads of licensing boards to a two-year delay before they can lobby – and vice versa (2 yrs. before lobbyists can become head of a licensing board). I agreed with the bill.

    This group of smiling faces is from William Penn University, and they came to the Capitol to talk about their experiences as student teachers.

    Isaiah Anderson is from U of I and he spoke specifically about providing a stipend for student teachers. He explained many of his peers have dropped out of the program while he works three jobs in order to make ends meet. The proposed $1,000 per student stipend would help pay for gas and food. With Iowa’s severe teacher shortage, this is a one way to encourage more students to enter Teacher Education Programs.

    In Thursday’s Ethics Committee Meeting, we passed two bills:

    SSB 1020

    Does three things:

    1. Changes the notification process/confidentiality of complaints. The proposed change directs the Secretary of the Senate to send a filed complaint to the entire Ethics Committee, caucus staff assigned to the Committee, and to the Respondent (person subject to the complaint). This is being done to avoid unintentional violations of the Code (currently when a complaint is first filed it is only sent to the Chair and Ranking Member and then later is more widely distributed) and creates a fairer process.
    2. Eliminates language that will be changed due to the notice requirement in #1 above.
    3. Currently, one of the options for the Committee in dealing with a complaint is to send it back to the complainant and take no further action unless the complainant provides “further substantiating information.” The proposed language keeps this option – but states that if the complainant does not provide additional information within 120 days the complaint will be dismissed. Otherwise, it is unfair for the Respondent to sit with a complaint hanging over their heads for 3 years (statute of limitations). This proposal addresses that concern. In addition, the proposal states that any outstanding current complaints (and there are two of them) that are awaiting further substantiation from the complainant will be dismissed (both complaints have been sitting for a long time).

    SSB 1021

    Eliminates the requirement that lobbyists file a report at the start of each session that lists by number all the bills and resolutions they intend to lobby, as well as if they are for or against the bill. The requirement was never followed as all bills and resolutions are not drafted prior to the session and completing a list would be impossible. This still requires lobbyists to file declarations on each bill they intent to lobby on, but only once the bill has been filed in the system and they do it on an individual basis.

    Both bills passed unanimously and are now eligible to come before the full Senate body for debate/passage.

    Constituent Emmaly Renshaw is the Senior Program Director with Iowa Valley Resource Conservation & Development. I got to visit with her about several small farm issues including the Choose Iowa Purchasing Program and incentives for new farmers.

    Like me, Emmaly believes Iowa should diversify and expand our crop options. Corn and soybeans thrive in our healthy soils but at one time Iowa had 100+ crops. Diversifying would keep that soil healthy and provide new economic engines for small farmers to thrive – all while protecting the environment.

    Learn more about Emmaly’s organization here: https://www.iowavalleyrcd.org/

    Served on the sub-committee for SSB 1023 which allows students at on-line public schools to participate in co-curricular and extracurricular activities offered by their school district.

    This passed 3 – 0 and is now eligible to come before the Senate Education Committee for debate/passage.

    Before heading back to my Senate District, I spoke with Rebekah Domayer, STEM Education Manager at the Iowa Children’s Museum. Rebekah was participating in the Iowa Afterschool Alliance Day on the Hill to talk about how her program impacts academic success while engaging her young learners (and old learners). Click the photo below to watch a video!

    Quick Updates

    • Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month: The Iowa Network Against Human Trafficking offers multiple ways for an individual to get involved and combat trafficking this month. If you or someone you know is a business owner, you can also join Iowa Businesses Against Trafficking and get access to resources to educate and take action.
    • The Healthiest State Annual Awards is an annual recognition that celebrates people and organizations in six categories for implementing best practices to support the physical, social, and mental well-being of Iowans. The deadline is Jan. 29th, 2025 to nominate someone you know!
    • IDALS warns pet owners to be aware of avian influenza: The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) encourages pet owners to keep their dogs and cats away from sick or deceased wild birds and animals. Pet owners should also prevent indoor/outdoor cats from hunting wildlife due to the threat posed by Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N1 HPAI) occurring in wild and migratory birds. Iowa veterinarians should call IDALS at (515) 281-5305 if they see cats or dogs displaying symptoms such as fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, red eyes, respiratory signs (eye or nose discharge), neurological signs (tremors, seizures, incoordination, blindness), and sudden death.
    • Frozen pipes season is here:ISU Extension encourages homeowners to prevent a burst pipe crisis bykeeping garage doors closed if there are water supply lines in the garage, opening kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing, letting the cold-water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes during extreme low temperatures, and keeping the thermostat set to the same temperature both during the day and at night. If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55° For more advice: https://blogs.extension.iastate.edu/answerline/2015/01/19/preventing-and-thawing-frozen-pipes/

  • Senator Dotzler’s Jan. 24 Newsletter

    From the Desk of Senator Dotzler

    With the 2025 Legislative Session comes the opportunity for you to hear directly from your elected representatives with the start of the Cedar Valley Legislative public forums.

    The sponsoring organizations met and decided on topics and I’m looking forward to your presence. These forums are an excellent opportunity for you to hear what is happening in the legislature. Also, it is a great opportunity for me to learn what your thoughts are on the current direction of the legislature.

    The forum dates and topics are:

    • January 24: Fiscal policy
    • February 21: Hunger
    • March 7: Education
    • April 4: Healthcare

    All forums will be 4:30-6:30 p.m. at Hawkeye’s Van G. Miller Adult Learning Center in Waterloo.

    My Committee Assignments

    This year, in addition to serving as the Democratic Whip, I sit on the following committees:

    • Agriculture
    • Appropriations
    • Economic Development Budget Subcommittee (ranking member)
    • Government Oversight
    • International Relations
    • Veteran Affairs (ranking members)
    • Ways and Means
    • Workforce

    Meet My Clerk!

    Every Iowa State Senator is helped in their legislative efforts by a clerk. Clerks are trusted aids working for a singular senator on all manner of issues. They serve as administrative assistants, communicators, schedulers, sounding boards, and confidants. Clerks help senators manage their legislative portfolios, committee and subcommittee assignments, bill filings, and amendments. They play an indispensable role in the Iowa Senate.

    My new clerk is Judith Elliott. She is no stranger to the Statehouse because she started clerking in the Iowa House the first year I served in the Legislature. Judith previously clerked for Senators Mike Gronstal and Nate Boulton. Prior to coming back to the Legislature, she worked for the Polk County Treasurer’s Office.

    Private School Vouchers: Where is the Oversight?

    We’re now in Year 2 of the taxpayer-funded private school voucher program here in Iowa. As has been the case throughout the program’s short existence, we have had to deal with an appalling lack of transparency from the governor’s office, and we still have many unanswered questions. Here are a few things we know at present.

    Vouchers are now, and have always been, a subsidy for families who already sent their children to private schools.

    • This school year, 79% of voucher recipients already attended private schools. That’s a double-digit increase from Year 1.

    In most of the state, Iowa kids do not have increased access to private schools.

    • 51% of school districts have fewer than 10 students utilizing private school vouchers.

    The private school voucher program continues to vastly exceed projected costs, ballooning state spending despite shrinking revenues.

    • In Year 1, vouchers cost the state $129 million — $22 million over the estimated cost.
    • In Year 2, vouchers are estimated to cost the state $218 million — $38 million over the estimated cost.
    • In Year 3, when the income eligibility cap comes off, the governor’s budget estimates vouchers will cost the state $315 million – but it’s anyone’s guess what the real cost will be.

    There is a fundamental imbalance between public and private schools when it comes to transparency and accountability. We expect public schools to submit to oversight and governance from elected school boards, and to hold open, public meetings inviting comments, recommendations, and concerns from the community. To this point, private schools accepting voucher dollars here in Iowa are not subject to the same accountability requirements as our public schools. This lack of transparency creates a series of unanswered questions. Here are some things we still don’t know.

    • How do private schools determine their admissions standards?
      • Public schools have a duty to accept and educate any student within their district boundaries. Which children and families are being turned away from Iowa’s private schools, and for what reasons?
    • Many private schools in Iowa raised tuition rates in response to the voucher program. How are they any more accessible to Iowa families whose kids did not already attend?
    • How many Iowa children used a voucher to attend a private school, only to return to public school after finding the private school did not meet their needs?
    • Which private schools in Iowa are not requiring appropriate teacher accreditation or licensure for educators and staff?

    I believe public dollars belong in public schools, full stop. But if I can’t get my Republican colleagues to agree on that, we should at least be able to agree that it’s time for some accountability and oversight for the private schools that take taxpayer-funded vouchers.

    Putting Iowa Families First through Paid Leave

    This week I signed on to co-sponsor a piece of legislation designed to help provide economic security to Iowa families: the Iowa Family and Medical Leave Act.

    We’ve all experienced unexpected emergencies that require our immediate attention. Unfortunately, taking time away from work to deal with those emergencies isn’t possible for many Iowa families due to the potential lost pay. This bill empowers working Iowans to care for their loved ones with one fewer worry during their time away from work. It’s a critical step in creating a better deal for Iowans through increased opportunity and economic security.

    The United States is the only industrialized nation without paid family leave for private sector workers. Here at home, 79% of Iowa private sector workers are without access to paid family leave through their employers. That’s about 1,371,000 working Iowans who could be forced to make impossible choices between caring for their loved ones and providing financial stability for their families.

    The Iowa Family and Medical Leave Act, SF109, establishes a family and medical leave insurance program to provide paid, job-protected leave for specified family and medical reasons. The bill is an extension and modernization of the unpaid, federal Family and Medical Leave Act and is reflective of present and future workforce needs.

    Putting families first means providing real coverage for working Iowans during times of emergency, and I’m proud to join the entire Senate Democratic caucus in supporting SF109.

    Quick Updates

    • Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month: The Iowa Network Against Human Trafficking offers multiple ways for an individual to get involved and combat trafficking this month. If you or someone you know is a business owner, you can also join Iowa Businesses Against Trafficking and get access to resources to educate and take action.
    • The Healthiest State Annual Awards is an annual recognition that celebrates people and organizations in six categories for implementing best practices to support the physical, social, and mental well-being of Iowans. The deadline is Jan. 29th, 2025 to nominate someone you know!
    • IDALS warns pet owners to be aware of avian influenza: The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) encourages pet owners to keep their dogs and cats away from sick or deceased wild birds and animals. Pet owners should also prevent indoor/outdoor cats from hunting wildlife due to the threat posed by Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N1 HPAI) occurring in wild and migratory birds. Iowa veterinarians should call IDALS at (515) 281-5305 if they see cats or dogs displaying symptoms such as fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, red eyes, respiratory signs (eye or nose discharge), neurological signs (tremors, seizures, incoordination, blindness), and sudden death.

    This Week in the Capitol

    This Wednesday, we celebrated Veterans’ Day on the Hill at the Capitol, where I was invited to share some words with those in attendance. It was an honor.

  • Senator Donahue’s Jan. 24 Newsletter

    From the Desk of Senator Donahue

    Meet My Clerk!

    Every Iowa State Senator is helped in their legislative efforts by a clerk. Clerks are trusted aids working for a singular senator on all manner of issues. They serve as administrative assistants, communicators, schedulers, sounding boards, and confidants. Clerks help senators manage their legislative portfolios, committee and subcommittee assignments, bill filings, and amendments. They play an indispensable role in the Iowa Senate.

    Emily Fredin is a sophomore at Drake University and former Linn Mar Lion. Having a constituent on the team at the Capitol as my Clerk is exciting and she has stepped right up to the challenge and has shown her leadership skills as well as organizational skills keeping me on track and prepared for my meetings.

    When Emily is not at the Capitol helping me out, she is a student at Drake studying American Politics and Environmental Science. In Emily’s free time she enjoys singing in choir, volunteers at the hydroponic farm in Des Moines, and also participates in events with her sorority.

    Fun fact: Emily spent Christmas break abroad doing a legal fellowship at Fenchurch Law Firm in London and says UK lawyers do (sometimes) still wear powdered wigs.

    Putting Iowa Families First through Paid Leave

    This week I signed on to co-sponsor a piece of legislation designed to help provide economic security to Iowa families: the Iowa Family and Medical Leave Act.

    We’ve all experienced unexpected emergencies that require our immediate attention. Unfortunately, taking time away from work to deal with those emergencies isn’t possible for many Iowa families due to the potential lost pay. This bill empowers working Iowans to care for their loved ones with one fewer worry during their time away from work. It’s a critical step in creating a better deal for Iowans through increased opportunity and economic security.

    The United States is the only industrialized nation without paid family leave for private sector workers. Here at home, 79% of Iowa private sector workers are without access to paid family leave through their employers. That’s about 1,371,000 working Iowans who could be forced to make impossible choices between caring for their loved ones and providing financial stability for their families.

    The Iowa Family and Medical Leave Act, SF109, establishes a family and medical leave insurance program to provide paid, job-protected leave for specified family and medical reasons. The bill is an extension and modernization of the unpaid, federal Family and Medical Leave Act and is reflective of present and future workforce needs.

    Putting families first means providing real coverage for working Iowans during times of emergency, and I’m proud to join the entire Senate Democratic caucus in supporting SF109.

    Private School Vouchers: Where is the Oversight?

    We’re now in Year 2 of the taxpayer-funded private school voucher program here in Iowa. As has been the case throughout the program’s short existence, we have had to deal with an appalling lack of transparency from the governor’s office, and we still have many unanswered questions. Here are a few things we know at present.

    Vouchers are now, and have always been, a subsidy for families who already sent their children to private schools.

    • This school year, 79% of voucher recipients already attended private schools. That’s a double-digit increase from Year 1.

    In most of the state, Iowa kids do not have increased access to private schools.

    • 51% of school districts have fewer than 10 students utilizing private school vouchers.

    The private school voucher program continues to vastly exceed projected costs, ballooning state spending despite shrinking revenues.

    • In Year 1, vouchers cost the state $129 million — $22 million over the estimated cost.
    • In Year 2, vouchers are estimated to cost the state $218 million — $38 million over the estimated cost.
    • In Year 3, when the income eligibility cap comes off, the governor’s budget estimates vouchers will cost the state $315 million – but it’s anyone’s guess what the real cost will be.

    There is a fundamental imbalance between public and private schools when it comes to transparency and accountability. We expect public schools to submit to oversight and governance from elected school boards, and to hold open, public meetings inviting comments, recommendations, and concerns from the community. To this point, private schools accepting voucher dollars here in Iowa are not subject to the same accountability requirements as our public schools. This lack of transparency creates a series of unanswered questions. Here are some things we still don’t know.

    • How do private schools determine their admissions standards?
      • Public schools have a duty to accept and educate any student within their district boundaries. Which children and families are being turned away from Iowa’s private schools, and for what reasons?
    • Many private schools in Iowa raised tuition rates in response to the voucher program. How are they any more accessible to Iowa families whose kids did not already attend?
    • How many Iowa children used a voucher to attend a private school, only to return to public school after finding the private school did not meet their needs?
    • Which private schools in Iowa are not requiring appropriate teacher accreditation or licensure for educators and staff?

    I believe public dollars belong in public schools, full stop. But if I can’t get my Republican colleagues to agree on that, we should at least be able to agree that it’s time for some accountability and oversight for the private schools that take taxpayer-funded vouchers.

    Quick Updates

    • Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month: The Iowa Network Against Human Trafficking offers multiple ways for an individual to get involved and combat trafficking this month. If you or someone you know is a business owner, you can also join Iowa Businesses Against Trafficking and get access to resources to educate and take action.
    • The Healthiest State Annual Awards is an annual recognition that celebrates people and organizations in six categories for implementing best practices to support the physical, social, and mental well-being of Iowans. The deadline is Jan. 29th, 2025 to nominate someone you know!
    • IDALS warns pet owners to be aware of avian influenza: The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) encourages pet owners to keep their dogs and cats away from sick or deceased wild birds and animals. Pet owners should also prevent indoor/outdoor cats from hunting wildlife due to the threat posed by Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N1 HPAI) occurring in wild and migratory birds. Iowa veterinarians should call IDALS at (515) 281-5305 if they see cats or dogs displaying symptoms such as fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, red eyes, respiratory signs (eye or nose discharge), neurological signs (tremors, seizures, incoordination, blindness), and sudden death.
    • Frozen pipes season is here:ISU Extension encourages homeowners to prevent a burst pipe crisis bykeeping garage doors closed if there are water supply lines in the garage, opening kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing, letting the cold-water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes during extreme low temperatures, and keeping the thermostat set to the same temperature both during the day and at night. If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55° For more advice: https://blogs.extension.iastate.edu/answerline/2015/01/19/preventing-and-thawing-frozen-pipes/

    This Week in Social Media and in District:

    This Week Around the Capitol:

  • Providing Economic Security for Iowa Families Through Paid Leave

    Des Moines — As a part of an ongoing commitment to create a better deal for Iowans, Senate Democrats on Thursday introduced legislation to provide real paid family leave for all working Iowans, truly putting Iowa’s families first.

    The Iowa Family and Medical Leave Act, numbered SF109, is an extension of the federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and establishes a family and medical leave insurance program to provide paid, job-protected leave for specified family and medical reasons.

    Sen. Matt Blake (D-Urbandale), the bill’s lead sponsor, says the legislation is about providing economic security to Iowa workers.

    “Unexpected emergencies can happen to anyone,” Sen. Blake said. “This bill puts Iowa families first by allowing workers to care for their loved ones without the extra worry of lost pay during their time away from work, easing their financial burdens.”

    All 15 members of the Iowa Senate Democratic caucus have signed on as co-sponsors for SF109.

    The United States is the only industrialized nation without paid family leave. Here at home, 79% of Iowa workers are without access to paid family leave through their employers. That’s about 1,371,000 working Iowans who could be forced to make impossible choices between caring for their loved ones and providing financial stability for their families.

    ###

  • Senator Staed’s Jan. 17 Newsletter

    From the Desk of Senator Staed

    I am incredibly honored to be serving Iowans in my new position as State Senator. Susan (who agreed to be my clerk again this Session) and I have had a busy first week, working on legislation, attending several legislative receptions to learn about a host of issues impacting Iowans, and meeting with constituents who’ve come to the Capitol. Honestly, one of our favorite things is seeing YOU here in the Statehouse so please let us know if you plan on making the trek to Des Moines!

    Staying in Contact in 2025

    This week marked the beginning of Iowa’s 2025 legislative session. Over the next few months, my colleagues and I will be hard at work on your behalf at the Capitol and in our home districts. I want to thank you in advance for your passion and engagement on the issues facing Iowans today.

    This year, Senate Democrats will focus on providing opportunity to folks who just want a fair shot. We’ll be working on behalf of all Iowans to address wage theft and worker safety, to provide affordable and accessible housing and healthcare options, to properly fund and support public education and our AEAs, and to hold Republicans accountable when they prioritize special interests over Iowa families.

    With this weekly newsletter, I’ll be providing consistent updates on what’s happening at the Capitol so you can stay informed and active. Please continue to speak up for the issues you care about and stand up for our shared values. We’re in this fight together.

    In addition to this newsletter, you can follow me on social media and our website through the links below.

    Thank you for your continued support!

    The Condition of the State

    Governor Kim Reynolds used her annual Condition of the State address this week to paint a rosy picture of her administration’s leadership, but the reality just doesn’t back her up.

    Iowans aren’t better off than they were eight years ago. Housing isn’t more affordable, childcare isn’t more accessible, maternal and infant mortality rates continue to rise, and the gap between CEO and worker pay is larger than ever. There is so much work to be done.

    Let’s start with the bad. The governor introduced proposals last night that could threaten the long-term health of Iowa’s Unemployment Trust Fund and risk Medicaid recipients having their access to health care interrupted. She didn’t mention anything about expanding preschool access to the one-third of Iowa kids without it. She made no mention of the opioid settlement dollars sitting in state accounts that opioid-impacted Iowans desperately need. And she introduced a budget that will spend more money than the state takes in, forcing us to dip into our reserve funds.

    There are, however, opportunities for bipartisan cooperation this session, and I’m willing to work across the aisle to make Iowans’ lives better. We can address Iowa’s rising cancer rates, hands-free driving legislation, childcare access and availability, and cell phone usage in K-12 schools.

    I am for ensuring, safeguarding, and expanding opportunity for all Iowans. If my Republican colleagues want to make positive change, Senate Democrats and I are ready to work.

    Thank you to the Biden Administration for their work on so many fronts, making life better for everyday Iowans. Here’s a short list of some of those accomplishments and a link to a more detailed list:

    • Passed the $1.2 trillion bipartisan infrastructure package to increase investment in the national network of bridges and roads, airports, public transport and national broadband internet, as well as waterways and energy systems.
    • Helped get more than 500 million lifesaving COVID-19 vaccinations in the arms of Americans through the American Rescue Plan.
    • Stopped a 30-year streak of federal inaction on gun violence by signing the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act that created enhanced background checks, closed the “boyfriend” loophole and provided funds for youth mental health.
    • Made a $369 billion investment in climate change, the largest in American history, through the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022.
    • Ended the longest war in American history by pulling the troops out of Afghanistan.
    • Provided $10,000 to $20,000 in college debt relief to Americans with loans who make under $125,000 a year.
    • Cut child poverty in half through the American Rescue Plan.
    • Capped prescription drug prices at $2,000 per year for seniors on Medicare through the Inflation Reduction Act.
    • Passed the COVID-19 relief deal that provided payments of up to $1,400 to many struggling U.S. citizens while supporting renters and increasing unemployment benefits.
    • Achieved historically low unemployment rates after the pandemic caused them to skyrocket.
    • Imposed a 15% minimum corporate tax on some of the largest corporations in the country, ensuring that they pay their fair share, as part of the historic Inflation Reduction Act.
    • Recommitted America to the global fight against climate change by rejoining the Paris Agreement.
    • Strengthened the NATO alliance in support of Ukraine after the Russian invasion by endorsing the inclusion of world military powers Sweden and Finland.
    • Authorized the assassination of the Al Qaeda terrorist Ayman al-Zawahiri, who became head of the organization after the death of Osama bin Laden.
    • Gave Medicare the power to negotiate prescription drug prices through the Inflation Reduction Act while also reducing government health spending.
    • Held Vladimir Putin accountable for his invasion of Ukraine by imposing stiff economic sanctions.
    • Boosted the budget of the Internal Revenue Service by nearly $80 billion to reduce tax evasion and increase revenue.
    • Created more jobs in one year (6.6 million) than any other president in U.S. history.
    • Reduced healthcare premiums under the Affordable Care Act by $800 a year as part of the American Rescue Plan.
    • Signed the PACT Act to address service members’ exposure to burn pits and other toxins.
    • Signed the CHIPS and Science Act to strengthen American manufacturing and innovation.
    • Reauthorized the Violence Against Women Act through 2027.
    • Halted all federal executions after the previous administration reinstated them after a 17-year freeze.

    Release: The Biden-Harris Administration Record

    Quick Updates

    • Radon Testing: The state Health and Human Services Department, in a partnership with the American Lung Association, is offering free radon testing kits for Iowans to use to measure radon levels in their home. Radon is one of the major causes for lung cancer, and if your home has not been tested recently, you may want to take advantage of the opportunity available through the state for a free test kit.
    • Iowa Corrections Officer Honored: High Risk Unit Officer Ben Keen has been named the US Marshal Northern District of Iowa Task Force Officer of the Year. I extend both my congratulations and thanks to Officer Keen’s dedication to community safety and justice.
    • Find a place to return your empty beverage containers: Retailers have been allowed to refuse to redeem beverage containers that consumers had purchased at that retail location since changes to the Bottle Bill were passed in 2022. This has made it more difficult for a consumer to know where they can return their containers to collect their nickel deposit and make sure that the containers are recycled. Now Iowans can use a website developed by the Iowa Beverage Association to find sites where they are can redeem their containers. Iowans can go to Empties.org and enter their address to find locations nearby where they can return containers, either at a redemption center or a retail location.
    • IRS opens Free File for Taxes: The Internal Revenue Service announced the IRS Free File Guided Tax Software has opened for taxpayers ahead of the official start of tax season later this month. Starting Jan. 10, the IRS Free File will begin accepting individual tax returns. Taxpayers can access free tools offered by trusted IRS Free File partners by visiting www.irs.gov/freefile.
    • Care for caregivers’ online series: Iowans who want to take better care of themselves as they care for others can enroll in Powerful Tools for Caregivers, a series of classes offered virtually by ISU Extension and Outreach. The next six-week online series begins Feb. 3, 1–2:30 p.m. The $40 fee registration fee also includes a guidebook. Online registration is now open. For more information about Powerful Tools for Caregivers, call 563-886-6157.
    • Grants available for tree plantings at Iowa schools: The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR), through the USDA Forest Service and National Association of State Foresters 2023 Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), received funds for schools to plant trees. A total of $105,000 in funds are available to help increase and diversify tree cover on school grounds, encouraging students to plant trees. Grant funding is up to $5,000 per project. Apply online at www.iowadnr.gov/urbanforestry by March 21.
    • Find a summer job in your favorite park or forest: Work alongside conservation and law enforcement professionals in an Iowa state park or forest this summer! Seasonal workers will explore the outdoors by performing hands-on duties in park management, natural resource practices, visitor engagement, and/or law enforcement. Apply at: www.iowadnr.gov/employment

    This Week in the Capitol

    I’m Ranking Member of the Senate Natural Resources and Environment Committee. During opening remarks of the first meeting Monday, I commented:

    “My priorities include protecting our natural resources, preserving water quality, soil health, and the air we breathe. I want us to ensure that future generations can enjoy the outdoors and all our natural resources. To me, this means better funding for the Dept. of Natural Resources, extension of the REAP sunset, funding the U of I Flood Center, and other clean water initiatives. It also means establishing a baseline for water quality, creating benchmarks to monitor our water quality, and to measure our achievements in every watershed, river, lake and stream in Iowa.”

    Interestingly, a couple members later commented during the committee that Iowa has great, clean water.

    It’s going to be an interesting Session. First, we’ll have to find agreement on the facts.

    Imagine this for a moment: sharing underwear that some unknown person wore before you.

    Gross, right?

    This is a real thing I learned about from members of the Youth Justice Council. Monica Malek and Audi Wodrazka-Espinoza explained that youth in “temporary” juvenile detention centers sometimes have to do this. YJC is spreading awareness on this practice and proposing that the youth be allowed to wear their own underwear or that funds be available to supply new ones.

    First meeting of the Senate Technology Committee (with Linn County Senator Charlie McClintock, Chair and Senator Liz Bennett, Ranking Member) was similar to most committees’ first meetings with the adoption of Rule 39. This is a standard set of rules for conducting a meeting, but #4 gives the Majority Party an incredible amount of power:

    “The rules adopted by a committee, including subsections 2, 3, 9, 10, 11, and 12 of this rule, may be suspended by an affirmative vote of a majority of the members of the committee.”

    For parliamentarians, here are the complete set of rules:

    Rule 39

    Rules for Standing Committees

    The following rules shall govern all standing committees of the senate. Any committee may adopt additional rules which are consistent with these rules:

    1. A majority of the members shall constitute a quorum.
    2. The chair of a committee shall refer each bill and resolution to a subcommittee within seven days after the bill or resolution has been referred to the committee. The chair may appoint subcommittees for study of bills and resolutions without calling a meeting of the committee, but the subcommittee must be announced by placing notice in the journal. No bill or resolution shall be reported out of a committee until the next meeting after the subcommittee is announced, except that the chair of the appropriations committee may make the announcement of the assignment to a subcommittee by placing a notice in the journal. Any bill so assigned by the appropriations committee chair shall be eligible for consideration by the committee upon report of the subcommittee.  When a bill or resolution has been assigned to a subcommittee, the chair shall report to the senate the bill or resolution number and the names of the subcommittee members and such reports shall be reported in the journal. Subcommittee assignments shall be reported to the journal daily. Reports filed before 3:00 p.m. shall be printed in the journal for that day; reports filed after 3:00 p.m. shall be printed in the journal for the subsequent day. Where standing subcommittees of any committee have been named, the names of the members and the title of the subcommittee shall be published once and thereafter publication of assignments may be made by indicating the title of the subcommittee.
    3. No bill or resolution shall be considered by a committee until it has been referred to a subcommittee, the subcommittee has held a public meeting, and the subcommittee has made its report unless otherwise ordered by a majority of the members.
    4. The rules adopted by a committee, including subsections 2, 3, 9, 10, 11, and 12 of this rule, may be suspended by an affirmative vote of a majority of the members of the committee.
    5. The affirmative vote of a majority of the members of a committee is needed to sponsor a committee bill or resolution or to report a bill or resolution out for passage.
    6. The vote on all bills and resolutions shall be by roll call unless a short-form vote is unanimously agreed to by the committee. A record shall be kept by the secretary.
    7. No committee is authorized to meet when the senate is in session. This rule does not apply to conference committees or subcommittees.
    8. A subcommittee shall not report a bill to the committee unless the bill has been typed into proper form by the legislative services agency.
    9. A bill or resolution shall not be voted upon the same day a public hearing called under subsection 10 is held on that bill or resolution.
    10. Public hearings may be called at the discretion of the chair. The chair shall call a public hearing upon the written request of one-half the membership of the committee. The chair shall set the time and place of the public hearing.
    11. A subcommittee chair must notify the committee chair not later than one legislative day prior to bringing the bill or resolution before the committee. The committee cannot vote on a bill or resolution for at least one full day following the receipt of the subcommittee report by the chairperson.
    12. A motion proposing action on a bill or resolution that has been defeated by a committee shall not be voted upon again at the same meeting of the committee.
    13. Committee meetings and subcommittee meetings shall be open.

    Access to mental health care continues to be a barrier for Iowa students. State of Iowa Youth Advisory Council members are asking legislators to support the requirement of mental health resources and information on school websites, and to require schools partner with students to identify other ways for students to be aware of mental health resources and information.

    Appreciative of SIYAC students Alexis Van Voorst and Ebele Agu for their work on this very important issue.

    Visited with the Board of Regents and University Presidents Tuesday afternoon. So appreciative of their passion for delivering a world-class education to our students. Especially enjoyed visiting with former colleague in the House, Nancy Dunkle, who now uses her gifts in finance and administration to serve on the Board.

    Soooo proud to work with these legislators!

    Representatives Tracy Ehlert, Aime J Wichtendahl, and Elinor Levin – three of the sharpest electeds who care deeply about ensuring their constituents’ voices are heard at the Statehouse.

    Chief Justice Susan Christensen gave the Joint Convention Condition of the Judiciary Address. She spoke about raising indigent defense attorneys’ salaries as we continue to have a shortage in the state. She also discussed cost-saving measures of changing the statute to require fewer magistrates as many have workloads less than 31%.

    Always impressed with Chief Justice Christensen’s passion to ensure all Iowans get fair and prompt justice.

    State Government Committee Chair, Sen. Rozenboom, said things are going well in Iowa and will scrutinize each bill before the committee to determine if there’s a compelling need for the change.

    Ranking Member, Sen. Cindy Winckler, suggested we should watch the Administrative Rules and Regulations changes and proposals taking place due to the government reorganization bill that passed last Session.

    This is one of the larger committees that covers a multitude of topics.

    Autism Advocacy Day at the Capitol gave me an opportunity to visit with Iowans from across the state who are on the autistic spectrum, along with their families. According to the CDC, 1 in 36 Iowa children are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.  

    I spoke with a mother who received a detention notice yesterday about her child missing school. This is due to a law passed last Session which tightens truancy. I believe the bill was misguided and takes away local control. Parents often need to pull their student out of class for therapy, treatment, and doctor appointments.

    The Autism Society of Iowa has several legislative priorities this year, including:

    • Eliminate age requirements for autism insurance coverage
    • Enable those on Hawki Insurance to have applied behavior analysis therapy coverage
    • Fully fund the Regional Autism Assistance Program in the HHS Budget so families have access to family navigators to assist them with services and resources
    • Increase wages for Direct Support Professionals
    • Increase Medicaid reimbursement for dental care
    • Improve employment opportunities for autistic adults through support of the Work Without Worry legislation

    Pictured with Dr. Matt O’Brien, Clinical Associate Professor of Pediatrics at the Stead Family Department of Pediatrics

    We’ve a page from my District (Hiawatha) this year in the Senate. Meet Isabelle Miller, senior at Marion High!

    State of the Iowa National Guard by Major General Stephen Osborn. The guard is strong and Major General shared some of their accomplishments and the commitment of our service members.

    Please join me at the League of Women Voters’ Legislative Forum this Saturday, 10am-11:30am, at the Hiawatha Public Library Community Room. All Linn County legislators have been invited to participate and it’s a great opportunity to ask us questions and learn more about legislation.

  • Senator Celsi’s Jan. 17 Newsletter

    From the Desk of Senator Celsi

    Well, the 2025 Legislative Session kicked off this week, and I was honored to be sworn in for my third term in the Iowa Senate (you’ll find photos from the first day of session at the end of this newsletter!). This year, I’m excited to return to several committees and to join some new ones:

    • Government Oversight
    • Health and Human Services
    • Natural Resources
    • State Government
    • Transportation
    • Ways & Means
    • Budget: Administration and Regulation

    As the session unfolds, I encourage you to reach out with your questions, concerns, or thoughts about the issues that matter most to you. Your input is invaluable to me as I advocate in the Senate for our district and for all Iowans.

    Let’s get to work!

    Staying in Contact in 2025

    This week marked the beginning of Iowa’s 2025 legislative session. Over the next few months, my colleagues and I will be hard at work on your behalf at the Capitol and in our home districts. I want to thank you in advance for your passion and engagement on the issues facing Iowans today.

    This year, Senate Democrats will focus on providing opportunity to folks who just want a fair shot. We’ll be working on behalf of all Iowans to address wage theft and worker safety, to provide affordable and accessible housing and healthcare options, to properly fund and support public education and our AEAs, and to hold Republicans accountable when they prioritize special interests over Iowa families.

    With this weekly newsletter, I’ll be providing consistent updates on what’s happening at the Capitol so you can stay informed and active. Please continue to speak up for the issues you care about and stand up for our shared values. We’re in this fight together.

    In addition to this newsletter, you can follow me on social media and our website through the links below.

    Thank you for your continued support!

    The Condition of the State

    Governor Kim Reynolds used her annual Condition of the State address this week to paint a rosy picture of her administration’s leadership, but the reality just doesn’t back her up.

    Iowans aren’t better off than they were eight years ago. Housing isn’t more affordable, childcare isn’t more accessible, maternal and infant mortality rates continue to rise, and the gap between CEO and worker pay is larger than ever. There is so much work to be done.

    Let’s start with the bad. The governor introduced proposals last night that could threaten the long-term health of Iowa’s Unemployment Trust Fund and risk Medicaid recipients having their access to health care interrupted. She didn’t mention anything about expanding preschool access to the one-third of Iowa kids without it. She made no mention of the opioid settlement dollars sitting in state accounts that opioid-impacted Iowans desperately need. And she introduced a budget that will spend more money than the state takes in, forcing us to dip into our reserve funds.

    There are, however, opportunities for bipartisan cooperation this session, and I’m willing to work across the aisle to make Iowans’ lives better. We can address Iowa’s rising cancer rates, hands-free driving legislation, childcare access and availability, and cell phone usage in K-12 schools.

    I am for ensuring, safeguarding, and expanding opportunity for all Iowans. If my Republican colleagues want to make positive change, Senate Democrats and I are ready to work.

    Quick Updates

    • Radon Testing: The state Health and Human Services Department, in a partnership with the American Lung Association, is offering free radon testing kits for Iowans to use to measure radon levels in their home. Radon is one of the major causes for lung cancer, and if your home has not been tested recently, you may want to take advantage of the opportunity available through the state for a free test kit.
    • Find a place to return your empty beverage containers: Retailers have been allowed to refuse to redeem beverage containers that consumers had purchased at that retail location since changes to the Bottle Bill were passed in 2022. This has made it more difficult for a consumer to know where they can return their containers to collect their nickel deposit and make sure that the containers are recycled. Now Iowans can use a website developed by the Iowa Beverage Association to find sites where they are can redeem their containers. Iowans can go to Empties.org and enter their address to find locations nearby where they can return containers, either at a redemption center or a retail location.
    • A Virtual Mobile Clinic (VMC) now serves homeless Veterans in the Des Moines area: The VMC is a mobile medical facility that contains two exam rooms, a laboratory area, and waiting room and can accommodate 12-15 appointments each day, staffed by a registered nurse, two telehealth technicians, and a driver. On Fridays, it will now be stationed at VA’s facility that supports Veterans experiencing homelessness in downtown Des Moines. The VMC offers vaccines, cancer and HIV screening, in addition to primary care. The downtown Veterans facility, the Community Resource and Referral Center (CRRC) is located at 1223 Center Street and veterans can use this facility to search for jobs, launder clothes, and receive other basic needs.
    • IRS opens Free File for Taxes: The Internal Revenue Service announced the IRS Free File Guided Tax Software has opened for taxpayers ahead of the official start of tax season later this month. Starting Jan. 10, the IRS Free File will begin accepting individual tax returns. Taxpayers can access free tools offered by trusted IRS Free File partners by visiting www.irs.gov/freefile.
    • Care for caregivers’ online series: Iowans who want to take better care of themselves as they care for others can enroll in Powerful Tools for Caregivers, a series of classes offered virtually by ISU Extension and Outreach. The next six-week online series begins Feb. 3, 1–2:30 p.m. The $40 fee registration fee also includes a guidebook. Online registration is now open. For more information about Powerful Tools for Caregivers, call 563-886-6157.
    • Grants available for tree plantings at Iowa schools: The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR), through the USDA Forest Service and National Association of State Foresters 2023 Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), received funds for schools to plant trees. A total of $105,000 in funds are available to help increase and diversify tree cover on school grounds, encouraging students to plant trees. Grant funding is up to $5,000 per project. Apply online at www.iowadnr.gov/urbanforestry by March 21.
    • Find a summer job in your favorite park or forest: Work alongside conservation and law enforcement professionals in an Iowa state park or forest this summer! Seasonal workers will explore the outdoors by performing hands-on duties in park management, natural resource practices, visitor engagement, and/or law enforcement. Apply at: www.iowadnr.gov/employment

    This Week in the Capitol

    I was joined on the first day of session by my family. (L to R) Daughter Bailey, Mom Ellen, Granddaughter Mia, Husband Todd, Daughter Chelsey, and Sister Teresa.

  • Senator Blake’s Jan. 17 Newsletter

    From the Desk of Senator Blake

    It’s official! I was sworn in as a State Senator this week, and we’re off to a busy start. The first week is full of tradition and ceremony, but the Governor’s Condition of the State address was a major highlight. In her speech, the Governor touched on areas where we can find common ground, like implementing a hands-free cell phone law, banning cell phone use in schools, and increasing medical residencies to address the physician shortage. However, there were proposals I strongly oppose, such as imposing work requirements for Medicaid. What stood out even more were the issues the Governor didn’t address: no plan to make housing more affordable, no solutions for factories laying off hardworking Iowans, and no commitment to ending the chronic underfunding of Iowa schools. These omissions speak volumes about the priorities being overlooked. My focus here in the Capitol is clear: fighting for Iowans and their future. I’m committed to tackling the challenges that matter most, and I’m ready to get to work.

    Staying in Contact in 2025

    This week marked the beginning of Iowa’s 2025 legislative session. Over the next few months, my colleagues and I will be hard at work on your behalf at the Capitol and in our home districts. I want to thank you in advance for your passion and engagement on the issues facing Iowans today.

    This year, Senate Democrats will focus on providing opportunity to folks who just want a fair shot. We’ll be working on behalf of all Iowans to address wage theft and worker safety, to provide affordable and accessible housing and healthcare options, to properly fund and support public education and our AEAs, and to hold Republicans accountable when they prioritize special interests over Iowa families.

    With this weekly newsletter, I’ll be providing consistent updates on what’s happening at the Capitol so you can stay informed and active. Please continue to speak up for the issues you care about and stand up for our shared values. We’re in this fight together.

    In addition to this newsletter, you can follow me on social media and our website through the links below.

    Thank you for your continued support!

    Quick Updates

    • Radon Testing: The state Health and Human Services Department, in a partnership with the American Lung Association, is offering free radon testing kits for Iowans to use to measure radon levels in their home. Radon is one of the major causes for lung cancer, and if your home has not been tested recently, you may want to take advantage of the opportunity available through the state for a free test kit.
    • Find a place to return your empty beverage containers: Retailers have been allowed to refuse to redeem beverage containers that consumers had purchased at that retail location since changes to the Bottle Bill were passed in 2022. This has made it more difficult for a consumer to know where they can return their containers to collect their nickel deposit and make sure that the containers are recycled. Now Iowans can use a website developed by the Iowa Beverage Association to find sites where they are can redeem their containers. Iowans can go to Empties.org and enter their address to find locations nearby where they can return containers, either at a redemption center or a retail location.
    • A Virtual Mobile Clinic (VMC) now serves homeless Veterans in the Des Moines area: The VMC is a mobile medical facility that contains two exam rooms, a laboratory area, and waiting room and can accommodate 12-15 appointments each day, staffed by a registered nurse, two telehealth technicians, and a driver. On Fridays, it will now be stationed at VA’s facility that supports Veterans experiencing homelessness in downtown Des Moines. The VMC offers vaccines, cancer and HIV screening, in addition to primary care. The downtown Veterans facility, the Community Resource and Referral Center (CRRC) is located at 1223 Center Street and veterans can use this facility to search for jobs, launder clothes, and receive other basic needs.
    • IRS opens Free File for Taxes: The Internal Revenue Service announced the IRS Free File Guided Tax Software has opened for taxpayers ahead of the official start of tax season later this month. Starting Jan. 10, the IRS Free File will begin accepting individual tax returns. Taxpayers can access free tools offered by trusted IRS Free File partners by visiting www.irs.gov/freefile.
    • Care for caregivers’ online series: Iowans who want to take better care of themselves as they care for others can enroll in Powerful Tools for Caregivers, a series of classes offered virtually by ISU Extension and Outreach. The next six-week online series begins Feb. 3, 1–2:30 p.m. The $40 fee registration fee also includes a guidebook. Online registration is now open. For more information about Powerful Tools for Caregivers, call 563-886-6157.
    • Grants available for tree plantings at Iowa schools: The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR), through the USDA Forest Service and National Association of State Foresters 2023 Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), received funds for schools to plant trees. A total of $105,000 in funds are available to help increase and diversify tree cover on school grounds, encouraging students to plant trees. Grant funding is up to $5,000 per project. Apply online at www.iowadnr.gov/urbanforestry by March 21.
    • Find a summer job in your favorite park or forest: Work alongside conservation and law enforcement professionals in an Iowa state park or forest this summer! Seasonal workers will explore the outdoors by performing hands-on duties in park management, natural resource practices, visitor engagement, and/or law enforcement. Apply at: www.iowadnr.gov/employment
    • Winter community trout stocking: The Iowa Department of Natural Resources will release rainbow trout in nine locations across Iowa this winter in areas that would not support them during warmer months. Anglers need a valid fishing license and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout. The daily limit rules apply. Go to www.iowadnr.gov/trout for more information.

    This Week in the Capitol

    Sworn in as Senator for District 22 on Monday, surrounded by my family at the Capitol.

    Monday, I was at the Des Moines Partnership with Mikki Stier (ChildServe), Samantha Winebrenner (Johnston Chamber), Andrea Hodapp (Big Green Umbrella), and Dr. Teri Wahlig (ChildServe CEO).

    On Thursday, I met with Love for Red, a student nonprofit organization dedicated to fighting period poverty and supplying free period products to Iowa schools.

    I escorted Major General Stephen Osborn, Adjutant General of the Iowa National Guard, during the Condition of the National Guard on Thursday.

  • Senator Petersen’s Jan. 17 Newsletter

    From the Desk of Senator Petersen

    2025 Legislative Session Underway

    The 2025 Legislative Session is underway and set to run for 110 days (or until the legislature passes a balanced budget).

    This year, Senate Democrats welcomed three new senators to our caucus: Matt Blake, Art Staed, and Tom Townsend. Senate Republicans welcomed four new senators. Governor Reynolds called for a special election for later this month to fill the vacant senate seat created when she named Sen. Chris Cournoyer as her new Lt. Governor.

    Thank you for your input on bills you’d like to see me sponsor this session. The best ideas for legislation come from the people I represent. Many of those bills are coming back from the bill drafters, and I’m look forward to filing them on your behalf.

    I hope to keep you updated on many of the happenings at the statehouse through my newsletter, social media and legislative town halls. You can follow me on social media and our website through the links below.

    Thank you for your continued support!

    The Condition of the State

    On Tuesday night, Governor Kim Reynolds gave her annual Condition of the State address. While she believes the condition of the state is strong, I’ve got concerns about where it is headed under her leadership.

    Iowans aren’t better off than they were eight years ago.

    Housing isn’t more affordable, our water isn’t cleaner, childcare isn’t more accessible, public schools and health care are underfunded, maternal and infant mortality rates are on the rise, minimum wage is still $7.25, and the gap between CEO and worker pay is larger than ever. There is so much work to be done.

    Let’s start with the bad. The governor introduced proposals going after safety net programs that provide economic security to Iowa families. Once again, she’s going after unemployment benefits for Iowans who lose their jobs by cutting earned benefits and making it nearly impossible to obtain. She is also proposing more hoops for Iowans (both kids and adults) to receive health care through Medicaid and Hawk-i.

    The Governor also introduced a budget that will spend more money than the state takes in. She’s dipping into reserve funds the same year her private school voucher program is set to remove its cap, allowing the wealthiest Iowans to send their kids to private schools on taxpayers’ dime. The private school voucher program is draining our budget, and students at public schools are paying the price. The Governor is proposing a 2% increase for public school budgets and no additional funding for preschool, which leaves 1/3 of Iowa’s four-year-olds without access to preschool.

    Governor Reynolds also made no mention of spending the millions of opioid settlement dollars that have been under lock and key in the Treasurer’s Office for more than two years while hundreds of Iowans have lost their lives to opioid addiction.

    On the positive side, Governor Reynolds did open the door to some opportunities for cooperation this session: address Iowa’s rising cancer rates, hands-free driving legislation, maternal health, and cell phone usage in K-12 schools.

    While we have many policy disagreements, I will continue to look for avenues to work together and push policies that improve the quality of our lives.

    Quick Updates

    • Radon Testing: The state Health and Human Services Department, in a partnership with the American Lung Association, is offering free radon testing kits for Iowans to use to measure radon levels in their home. Radon is one of the major causes for lung cancer, and if your home has not been tested recently, you may want to take advantage of the opportunity available through the state for a free test kit.
    • Find a place to return your empty beverage containers: Retailers have been allowed to refuse to redeem beverage containers that consumers had purchased at that retail location since changes to the Bottle Bill were passed in 2022. This has made it more difficult for a consumer to know where they can return their containers to collect their nickel deposit and make sure that the containers are recycled. Now Iowans can use a website developed by the Iowa Beverage Association to find sites where they are can redeem their containers. Iowans can go to Empties.org and enter their address to find locations nearby where they can return containers, either at a redemption center or a retail location.
    • A Virtual Mobile Clinic (VMC) now serves homeless Veterans in the Des Moines area: The VMC is a mobile medical facility that contains two exam rooms, a laboratory area, and waiting room and can accommodate 12-15 appointments each day, staffed by a registered nurse, two telehealth technicians, and a driver. On Fridays, it will now be stationed at VA’s facility that supports Veterans experiencing homelessness in downtown Des Moines. The VMC offers vaccines, cancer and HIV screening, in addition to primary care. The downtown Veterans facility, the Community Resource and Referral Center (CRRC) is located at 1223 Center Street and veterans can use this facility to search for jobs, launder clothes, and receive other basic needs.
    • IRS opens Free File for Taxes: The Internal Revenue Service announced the IRS Free File Guided Tax Software has opened for taxpayers ahead of the official start of tax season later this month. Starting Jan. 10, the IRS Free File will begin accepting individual tax returns. Taxpayers can access free tools offered by trusted IRS Free File partners by visiting www.irs.gov/freefile.
    • Care for caregivers’ online series: Iowans who want to take better care of themselves as they care for others can enroll in Powerful Tools for Caregivers, a series of classes offered virtually by ISU Extension and Outreach. The next six-week, online series begins Feb. 3, 1–2:30 p.m. The $40 fee registration fee also includes a guidebook. Online registration is now open. For more information about Powerful Tools for Caregivers, call 563-886-6157
    • Grants available for tree plantings at Iowa schools: The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR), through the USDA Forest Service and National Association of State Foresters 2023 Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), received funds for schools to plant trees. A total of $105,000 in funds are available to help increase and diversify tree cover on school grounds, encourage students in planting trees. Grant funding is up to $5,000 per project. Apply online at www.iowadnr.gov/urbanforestry by March 21.
    • Find a summer job in your favorite park or forest: Work alongside conservation and law enforcement professionals in an Iowa state park or forest this summer! Seasonal workers will explore the outdoors by performing hands-on duties in park management, natural resource practices, visitor engagement, and/or law enforcement. Apply at: www.iowadnr.gov/employment

    This Week in the Capitol

    Senate District 18 Legislative Team is back at the statehouse: (L to R) Rep. Austin Baeth, Sen. Janet Petersen, and Rep. Sean Bagniewski

    Thanks for the visit from Roosevelt High School I-JAG students Kamden, Eman, Gabriela, and Leontae and their instructor Vincent Hanna this week to talk about the program.

    Taking the oath of office in the Senate Chamber on Monday.

    Love for Red was at the statehouse this week, pushing for better access to period products for Iowans.

  • Senator Donahue’s Jan. 17 Newsletter

    From the Desk of Senator Donahue

    Week one is completed. Most of which was pomp and circumstance, but some committee work did commence throughout the week.

    I will reserve much of my comments about the start of session for forums and coffee talks over the weekend, but I am very unimpressed by the majority leadership and their start to the session – from both executive wing and the legislative wing, and many of those running the committees.

    I look forward to working on the priorities that you sent me to Des Moines to work on, and I will do my level best to push forward those initiatives that are important to our communities and to the 49% of Iowans who are not on the same page with what the majority is working on.

    Staying in Contact in 2025

    This week marked the beginning of Iowa’s 2025 legislative session. Over the next few months, my colleagues and I will be hard at work on your behalf at the Capitol and in our home districts. I want to thank you in advance for your passion and engagement on the issues facing Iowans today.

    This year, Senate Democrats will focus on providing opportunity to folks who just want a fair shot. We’ll be working on behalf of all Iowans to address wage theft and worker safety, to provide affordable and accessible housing and healthcare options, to properly fund and support public education and our AEAs, and to hold Republicans accountable when they prioritize special interests over Iowa families.

    With this weekly newsletter, I’ll be providing consistent updates on what’s happening at the Capitol so you can stay informed and active. Please continue to speak up for the issues you care about and stand up for our shared values. We’re in this fight together.

    In addition to this newsletter, you can follow me on social media and our website through the links below.

    Thank you for your continued support!

    The Condition of the State

    Governor Kim Reynolds used her annual Condition of the State address this week to paint a rosy picture of her administration’s leadership, but the reality just doesn’t back her up.

    Iowans aren’t better off than they were eight years ago. Housing isn’t more affordable, childcare isn’t more accessible, maternal and infant mortality rates continue to rise, and the gap between CEO and worker pay is larger than ever. There is so much work to be done.

    Let’s start with the bad. The governor introduced proposals last night that could threaten the long-term health of Iowa’s Unemployment Trust Fund and risk Medicaid recipients having their access to health care interrupted. She didn’t mention anything about expanding preschool access to the one-third of Iowa kids without it. She made no mention of the opioid settlement dollars sitting in state accounts that opioid-impacted Iowans desperately need. And she introduced a budget that will spend more money than the state takes in, forcing us to dip into our reserve funds.

    There are, however, opportunities for bipartisan cooperation this session, and I’m willing to work across the aisle to make Iowans’ lives better. We can address Iowa’s rising cancer rates, hands-free driving legislation, childcare access and availability, and cell phone usage in K-12 schools.

    I am for ensuring, safeguarding, and expanding opportunity for all Iowans. If my Republican colleagues want to make positive change, Senate Democrats and I are ready to work.

    Quick Updates

    • Radon Testing: The state Health and Human Services Department, in a partnership with the American Lung Association, is offering free radon testing kits for Iowans to use to measure radon levels in their home. Radon is one of the major causes for lung cancer, and if your home has not been tested recently, you may want to take advantage of the opportunity available through the state for a free test kit.
    • Iowa Corrections Officer Honored: High Risk Unit Officer Ben Keen has been named the US Marshal Northern District of Iowa Task Force Officer of the Year. I extend both my congratulations and thanks to Officer Keen’s dedication to community safety and justice.
    • Find a place to return your empty beverage containers: Retailers have been allowed to refuse to redeem beverage containers that consumers had purchased at that retail location since changes to the Bottle Bill were passed in 2022. This has made it more difficult for a consumer to know where they can return their containers to collect their nickel deposit and make sure that the containers are recycled. Now Iowans can use a website developed by the Iowa Beverage Association to find sites where they are can redeem their containers. Iowans can go to Empties.org and enter their address to find locations nearby where they can return containers, either at a redemption center or a retail location.
    • IRS opens Free File for Taxes: The Internal Revenue Service announced the IRS Free File Guided Tax Software has opened for taxpayers ahead of the official start of tax season later this month. Starting Jan. 10, the IRS Free File will begin accepting individual tax returns. Taxpayers can access free tools offered by trusted IRS Free File partners by visiting www.irs.gov/freefile.
    • Care for caregivers’ online series: Iowans who want to take better care of themselves as they care for others can enroll in Powerful Tools for Caregivers, a series of classes offered virtually by ISU Extension and Outreach. The next six-week, online series begins Feb. 3, 1–2:30 p.m. The $40 fee registration fee also includes a guidebook. Online registration is now open. For more information about Powerful Tools for Caregivers, call 563-886-6157
    • Grants available for tree plantings at Iowa schools: The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR), through the USDA Forest Service and National Association of State Foresters 2023 Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), received funds for schools to plant trees. A total of $105,000 in funds are available to help increase and diversify tree cover on school grounds, encourage students in planting trees. Grant funding is up to $5,000 per project. Apply online at www.iowadnr.gov/urbanforestry by March 21.
    • Find a summer job in your favorite park or forest: Work alongside conservation and law enforcement professionals in an Iowa state park or forest this summer! Seasonal workers will explore the outdoors by performing hands-on duties in park management, natural resource practices, visitor engagement, and/or law enforcement. Apply at: www.iowadnr.gov/employment

    This Week in the Capitol

  • Iowa Senate Democratic Leader Responds to Condition of the State Address

    Iowa Senate Democratic Leader Responds to Condition of the State Address

    Iowa State Senator Janice Weiner released the following statement regarding Gov. Kim Reynolds’ Condition of the State Address on Tuesday:

    “After eight years of Republican leadership, housing isn’t more affordable, childcare isn’t more accessible, and costs for everyday Iowans continue to rise,” Senate Democratic Leader Janice Weiner (D-Iowa City) said. “There is much work to be done.”

    “After years of nonstop culture wars, Senate Democrats welcome the opportunity to address the issues affecting Iowa families, pocketbooks, and communities.”

    Sen. Weiner is the Senate Democratic Leader and represents Iowa City.