• Senator Staed’s Feb. 7 Newsletter

    Please join Representative Tracy Ehlert and me this Saturday, Feb. 10, from 9-10 a.m. for an informal discussion about what’s on your mind. Politics, coffee, and casual conversation at Tommy’s Restaurant, 393 Edgewood Rd. NW.


    From the Desk of Senator Staed

    Iowa has some of the richest and most productive soil in the world. In fact, more than 85% of Iowa’s land is used for agriculture. But Iowa is faced with myriad water quality issues, including excessive nutrient loads from fertilizers and dangerously high fecal bacteria. Iowa Dept. of Natural Resources reports nearly half of our lakes and streams are “impaired.” Factory farms pollute Iowa waters because they have lax regulations compared to other industries. Current manure management plans and construction permits often don’t provide enough oversight. Iowa’s patchwork of CAFO regulations allows unacceptable amounts of nutrients to runoff into Iowa’s recreational lakes and rivers, causing algae blooms and beach closures. Polluted waters are a nightmare for local tourism, drinking water facilities, and leave Iowa taxpayers to foot the bill for restoration projects.

    Bold and effective measures are needed to remedy this problem.

    I am currently working on a bill addressing nutrient runoff reduction.

    This week I filed my water quality bill, SF183. It’s a starting point for serious discussion and legislative action addressing one of the issues. If passed, it would:

    • Limit pollution at the source by requiring medium and large CAFOs (Confined Animal Feeding Operations) to obtain NPDES (National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System) permits under the Clean Water Act.
    • Mandate that all permitted CAFOs monitor their operations for pollution discharges and report that monitoring data to the Iowa DNR, where it will then be made publicly available.
    • EPA regulations would no longer be a “ceiling” for CAFO oversight in Iowa, allowing state regulators to decide what’s best for Iowa.
    • Ensure that when violations happen, CAFOs are responsible for damages and cleaning up their mess.

    Link to Food and Water Watch research report on water quality: Food and Water Watch: Iowa Drinking Dirty Water


    Addressing Iowa’s Childcare Crisis

    This week, in an effort to tackle an ongoing crisis that affects Iowa’s children, families, and workers alike, my colleagues and I are turning our attention toward one of Iowa’s most persistent issues: childcare.

    Childcare is one of the single-largest expenses in the monthly budget for any growing family. Full-time care for an infant, for example, can rival annual in-state tuition at one of our Regents universities. A lack of robust childcare options represents a significant barrier for parents looking to re-enter the workforce and for Iowa businesses hoping to recruit and retain the state’s top talent.

    At present, there is a roughly 50,000-slot gap between Iowa’s available supply of childcare options and its current demand. And, according to data from the Center for American Progress, nearly a quarter of Iowans live in a childcare desert. For rural families, that number expands to 35%.

    Simply put, there are not enough affordable and accessible childcare options in the state to adequately serve Iowa’s families.

    In order to tackle Iowa’s childcare crisis, Senate Democrats are introducing a legislative package to address two critical elements of the childcare equation: lowering costs and expanding accessibility.

    To start, I have signed on to co-sponsor legislation designed to help Iowans afford childcare by expanding eligibility for state assistance to thousands of working families who do not currently qualify. Raising income eligibility from 160% of the Federal Poverty Level to 200% (and up to 240% for families requiring special needs care) will help more Iowa families access childcare and lower families’ monthly costs.

    Another step in expanding eligibility and accessibility involves guaranteeing state childcare assistance as families grow. To that end, I am supporting the following two proposals:

    • The first ensures that children under 18 who have a child of their own are automatically qualified to receive state childcare assistance, instead of having to rely on their parents’ income to qualify. (SF122)
    • The second allows siblings to automatically qualify, ensuring parents can continue to access childcare assistance while their family grows.

    Finally, in order to address Iowa’s ongoing struggle to grow and maintain childcare capacity, I am supporting a proposal designed to raise wages for childcare workers, allowing childcare centers to maintain staffing levels, improve affordability, and expand capacity. The proposal would double investment in the state’s current Child Care Solutions Fund pilot program. For every private dollar raised from the community, the state will provide two matching dollars. Investing in our childcare workforce is critical to expanding our capacity for care and lowering costs for Iowa families.

    Childcare isn’t a partisan issue. It affects folks of every demographic and ideology. Together, we can create a better deal for Iowans, provide greater economic security for Iowa families, and reduce the structural barriers for Iowa’s workers all at the same time by finally adequately addressing Iowa’s childcare crisis.


    This Week in the Capitol

    Juliana Pins and her mom, Amanda Ott Pins, are at the statehouse to talk about the horrific disease of Alzheimer’s. Juliana’s grandma was diagnosed in her 50s and finally had to move into a nursing home for 24-hour care.

    Amanda and Juliana are asking the legislature to fund Dementia Service Specialists with an appropriation of $750,000. In 2020, more than 62,000 Iowans 65+ were living with Alzheimer’s.

    Investing in Dementia Service Specialists would keep these Iowans out of a facility longer, saving the state money. A wise investment!

    Thank you to Juliana and Amanda for advocating for Alzheimer’s patients and their families.


    Kathy Johnson, Abbe Center’s Executive Director, discussed proposed cuts to the behavioral health funds for our community mental health centers. The Iowa Behavioral Health Association has several legislative asks, including:

    • Sustain federal block grants funding with safety net providers
    • Accelerate funding timelines to ensure the continuity of safety net services by providers unable to budget for staff beyond the current fiscal year due to a lack of certainty
    • Stay true to the model of Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics and not allow restrictive “Iowa Only’ requirements
    • Reinforce Iowa’s network of nonprofit behavioral health safety net providers who serve high ratios of Medicaid members by enhancing Medicaid rates
    • Dedicate opioid settlement funds to behavioral health safety net providers

    Very appreciative of Kathy and her team’s work ensuring Iowans have access to quality mental health services.


    Emily Shields, Executive Director of Community Colleges of Iowa, discussed the legislative priorities for the 15 community colleges in Iowa. They are not just exceptional educational institutions but serve as economic engines for Iowa.


    Three bills passed in Tuesday’s Education Committee and are now eligible for passage/debate in the full Senate:

    SSB 1025 – Remote Testing Allowed for Online Students

    The bill does not address many of the proctor issues or the true costs to implement remote testing with secure cameras, etc. I also voted NO because the costs to proctor these tests are passed on to public schools.

    SSB 1027 – Allowing management to use levy funds for teacher recruitment/retention

    [YES vote. However, this bill is a ‘Band-Aid’ to help fix the public school underfunding the past 8 years by the legislature – shifting the costs to property taxes.]

    SSB 1036 – School Start Date modification

    School start date is based on state fair dates. There are times that the state fair ends on a Friday, but August 23 falls late the follow week. Schools can’t get a full week of instruction into that first week of school, but under this bill they would be able to get a full week of instruction, after the state fair concludes. It also allows more flexibility to meet local needs.   [YES vote]


    I LOVE our local libraries – and their staff!

    Librarians Dara Schmidt, Cedar Rapids Public Library; Chris Stoner, Hiawatha Public Library; Bill Carroll, Marion Public Library; and Amanda Sand, Dubuque Public Library, told me about their crucial partnership in workforce development and career resources, and the increased usage of the food pantry in the Hiawatha location.

    As community hubs, libraries fill many roles that make our lives richer.

    (BTW, what book are you enjoying right now? Susan’s reading The Frozen River while I’m having fun with an old one in my personal library: “14,000 Quips and Quotes”).


    Senate Democrats invited Dr. Richard L. Deming to discuss his cancer research with the caucus. Dr. Deming is the Medical Director of Mercy Cancer Center in Des Moines. Iowa has consistently ranked among the states with the highest cancer rates.

    Part of our discussion centered on a comprehensive assessment of pesticide use patterns and increased cancer risk, along with the Nitrate & Health Fact sheet from the Environmental Health Sciences Research Center at Iowa’s College of Public Health.

    Democrats are working on legislation to reduce cancer rates across the state, using science-based research and information.


    Served on the sub-committee for SF82, relating to elections for bonds issued by a school district.

    Under current law, SAVE bonds are only subject to an election if someone requests that the question of the bond be submitted to the voters. SAVE money comes from state-wide sales tax – not property tax dollars. Most of the time, schools move to issue and bond, and the bond and all the details of what that bond will be used for are put to the voters and require a simple majority approval rate.

    This bill would require two – expensive elections – and require 60 percent approval for both elections before an infrastructure/SAVE bond can be issued. Another issue with the bill is time. If the bond doesn’t pass the first time, construction costs could escalate costing taxpayers’ additional money. The supermajority requirement will only delay projects, bidding up the costs to taxpayers and delaying the benefits of safe, technology-ready and right-sized facilities for students.

    I was a NO vote but it passed the sub, 2 -1.


    Two bills passed out of State Government:

    SSB 1031

    SSB 1031 is a Department of Administrative Services bill, that proposes several changes regarding state library code following government reorganization aligning the state library under DAS. The bill eliminates:

    Requiring reporting of the state library’s biennial plan.

    Development of a biennial unified plan of service and service delivery in coordination with the area education agencies as a required duty of the department.

    The requirement that state library develop standard for “state agency libraries”. The state historical building and the Iowa Department of the Blind house the only other state agency libraries.

    The term “access plus” and replaces it with the words “interlibrary loan” as the Department no longer brands the book exchange program access plus.

    [I was YES vote]

    SSB 1032

    SSB 1032 comes from the Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing and is an omnibus bill that includes some technical corrections, and some revisions to the code.

    [YES vote]

    How wonderful that my first opportunity to speak on the Senate floor, was to introduce refugees and immigrants to the Chamber!

    “Since 2015, Refugee & Immigrant Voices in Action (RIVA) with AmeriCorps have helped more than 10,000 new Iowans access education and skills-building opportunities – strengthening communities across the state. This year RIVA AmeriCorps has 33 AmeriCorps members at 10 service sites across Iowa supporting 700+ clients –preparing them for economic success with new skills. Today 19 of those members are here at the Capitol, excited to meet with you to share the positive impact they are making in Iowa. Please give a warm Senate welcome to these AmeriCorps volunteers.”


    Meeting with RIVA AmeriCorps volunteers who hail from all over the world. Thankful for the fullness of our culture due to the diversity of our citizens.

    With RIVA AmeriCorps Program Manager Nafissatou Lamidi, Michelle Binam, Christina Sehna, Ghada Dahab, Mercy Thompson, and Sina Gul Hakim Khan

    Learn more here: https://www.rivaiowa.org/riva-americorps


    With former colleague Representative John Forbes, who is also a pharmacist. John is at the Capitol who pharmacy students who are in support of SSB 1017 relating to pharmacy benefits managers reverse auction and group insurance for public employees. We’ve passed similar legislation in the House, but it never made it through the Senate. Hopefully, this will be the year to help our small business pharmacies, especially those in rural areas (last year 30 shut their doors).


    Iowa Realtors Association members from Cedar Rapids speaking with legislators about the Home Inspection Accountability Act. They are asking that inspectors be registered with the state to have some credibility with a professional association. Also talked about a bill asking for lead pipe disclosure upon sale of home.

    Good to visit with the people who help many find the perfect home.


    State troopers keeping the peaceful protestors back so that Moms for Liberty can hold an event. MFL is designated as a hate group by the Southern Poverty Law Center.


    Served on the sub for SF141, relating to public school districts accepting cash for tickets to extracurricular activities. I now understand the issue and nuances. There’s a liability risk and a security risk in accepting cash. But there are many who have limited options and may not be able to use a card or electronic transactions. We agreed to move the bill forward for further discussion and likely an amendment.


    Visiting with Zack Kucharski at the Iowa Newspaper Association legislative reception. Always impressed with Zack’s breadth of knowledge covering so many topics important to Iowans.


    My first Senate floor action occurred Thursday, voting on the Senate Code of Ethics and Senate joint rules governing lobbyists.


    Decoding Dyslexia Iowa is at the Capitol every year, educating legislators on what it means to be dyslexic. 15–20% of Iowans have dyslexia – a learning disability that affects reading, writing, and spelling. In fact, it’s the most common learning disability that impacts people in varying degrees.

    DD has a bill this legislative cycle, SF72, to fund the Dyslexia Specialist endorsement at our universities. To be eligible, individuals must work in an Iowa school or AEA for 2 years after completing the endorsement. This structure ensures that taxpayer dollars directly impact Iowa students.

    Thank you to Decoding Dyslexia Iowa Executive Director Katie Greving and board members Randy Califf and Nina Lorimor-Easley for their doggedness these past ten years in ensuring Iowa students have educators trained in best practices for teaching.


    It’s important for legislators to listen to those most impacted by the bills we pass. I spoke with Erika Eckley, Iowa Public Information Board Director, concerning SSB1085. This bill changes the length of time a person can file a complaint with IPIB from 60 days to 90 days after an alleged violation of open meetings. Erika explained there are only a few cases each year that miss the 60 days window, but this means the client would have to take legal action instead of remediation.


    Fantastic legislative coffee and conversation last Saturday covering a sundry of political topics.

    Always appreciate hearing views from constituents on the issues that impact them personally!


    Quick Updates

    • Robert Mannheimer Youth Advocacy Award Winners: Congratulations to Danika Jacobsen and Ivy Wishman who won the ACLU of Iowa’s Youth Advocacy Award! I imagine we’ll see some extraordinary young people advocating for their rights this year. If you spot them, be sure to nominate them.
    • Looking to turn your overwhelm into action? Get involved with Iowa Migrant Movement for Justice. Sign up for the newsletter, login to their First Friday updates, and, volunteer for event support – intake, hospitality, even childcare.
    • Iowa State University Extension and Outreach’s Wild-harvested Mushroom Certification Class will return this spring, offering mushroom hunters a valuable opportunity to sharpen their identification skills, learn more about their favorite mushrooms, and connect with other hunters. The class is for those hoping to sell wild-harvested mushrooms, as sellers are legally required to complete a certification workshop to sell eight different varieties of wild-harvested mushrooms. Mandatory in-person workshops will be held March 15, March 29 and April 12, and registration is $60. Visit the Wild-harvested Mushrooms Certification website to register.
    • Become a Bald Eagle Nest Monitor: The Iowa DNR will be holding one training opportunity for people interested in becoming volunteer bald eagle nest monitors. The workshop will be held via Zoom on Feb. 9 and seats are limited. Participants are welcomed statewide but be aware that most known nests are in Polk, Johnson, Linn, and Story counties. The commitment for conducting the survey and submitting data is 8 hours from March and July each year, depending on travel time, and will require multiple visits to a nest. Visit VWMP webpage to apply.
    • The 2025 Tri-State Forest Stewardship Conference will be held March 1 at the Grand River Center in Dubuque, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The event is co-led by Iowa State University, University of Illinois, and University of Wisconsin-Madison Extension Services. The conference is designed specifically for forest landowners in the Midwest, but forestry professionals, consultants, volunteers, Master Naturalists, and students are all encouraged to attend. To register, visit the website or call University of Illinois Extension at 815-858-2273.
  • Senator Staed’s Jan. 31 Newsletter

    From the Desk of Senator Staed

    Thank you for your emails, calls, and postcards this past week. It’s refreshing to see this much interaction with the public on a variety of issues impacting Iowans. It is my firm belief that elected officials must be held accountable to the People, which is why I strive to bring sunshine to the process – letting you know my votes on the bills that come before me. (See more about the bill process below.)

    It’s unfortunate that I have yet to see a Republican bill moving through the process that addresses the needs of everyday Iowa families. Most Iowans aren’t better off than they were eight years ago. Housing isn’t more affordable, and childcare isn’t more accessible. State revenues continue to decline while the governor has proposed a budget that spends more than we will take in. Relying on one-time relief funds while cutting tax revenues is not a sustainable model for long-term budgeting. We’re passing on an increased fiscal burden to the next generation. This is fiscally irresponsible.

    Senate Democrats are for providing economic security for Iowa families – ensuring, safeguarding, and expanding opportunity. We are working to ease the financial burdens on Iowa families by supporting accessible and affordable housing and childcare options and creating more stability and predictability for our workforce. We believe every Iowa child deserves access to a high-quality public education, including pre-school through college. We believe every Iowan should have the right to earn a paycheck that supports their family and respects their work.

    After three weeks, it’s time to refocus the legislature’s priorities on the needs of everyday Iowans.


    I’m Just a Bill – Staying Involved in the Legislative Process

    As we come to the end of our third week at the Statehouse and bills are beginning to make their way through the legislative gauntlet, I thought it would be a good idea to put together a refresher so you all can stay engaged in our work at the Capitol.

    Do you remember the old Schoolhouse Rock! song, “I’m Just a Bill”? That little three-minute cartoon taught so many young Americans the fundamentals of the legislative process in Washington, D.C. Here in Iowa, the process isn’t all that different!

    If you haven’t tracked legislation before, the whole system can feel a bit complicated. Not to fear! Here’s a quick guide to understanding the process so you can ensure your voice is heard.

    And, as always, please don’t hesitate to reach out with a question if I can be of more help along the way!

    Step 1: Subcommittee

    Subcommittees are where we hear from you.

    • The first step for most bills under consideration in the Senate is a subcommittee. This is where a small panel of lawmakers review a bill and hear public comment. If you want to make your position known on a given bill, this is the place to do it!
    • Subcommittees take place at the Capitol but are also usually streamed online, with time set aside for public comment.
    • What to do: If you want to speak on a bill in a subcommittee, you can attend in person or participate online. You can also leave written comments for lawmakers to read and consider.
    • You can find a schedule of subcommittees here. Click “Agenda” for meeting details and the Zoom link. Click “Comments” to leave a comment.

    Step 2: Committee

    Committees are where we iron out the details.

    • If a bill passes out of subcommittee (and many don’t), it’s heard by a full committee of senators. In the Senate, we have 17 standing committees focusing on various policy areas. Each committee has between 6 and 20 members, often with specific expertise in that issue area.
    • In committee, senators discuss a bill and ask questions of the bill manager.
    • Senators can also amend the bill in committee – that is, offer changes and additions to it based on what they’ve heard from constituents and experts.
    • Committees take place in person at the Capitol but are also streamed online.
    • What to do: Attend in person to show public interest in the issue. Contact senators on the committee to let them know what you think and how you want them to vote. Find committee schedules here. Click here to find senators’ contact information.

    Step 3: The Floor

    Floor debate is where we make our stand.

    • A bill that passes committee is eligible for floor debate (although the floor leader decides if and when a bill comes up).
    • If a bill is brought up for debate, the sponsor introduces it, and then all 50 senators have a chance to speak and offer amendments to change it. At the end of debate, senators vote on whether to pass it.
    • Floor debate is held in the Senate chamber and streamed online. You can watch debates live by clicking here. If you’d like to see archived debates, click here.
    • What to do: The Senate chamber galleries are open to the public. Attend in person or watch online. Contact your senator to make your voice heard.

    Step 4: What Happens Next

    What happens after the Senate passes a bill depends on whether the bill has also been considered by the House.

    • If the bill started in the Senate, it moves over to the House for further consideration.
    • If it’s already passed the House, it moves on to the governor. The governor gets the final say on all legislation, choosing whether to sign it into law or veto it.

    The next few weeks will be very busy with bills moving through the subcommittee and committee process. If there’s an issue you care about, now is the time to get involved and ensure your voice is heard!


    Reasserting Iowa as a National Leader in Public Education

    It’s time to talk about school funding.

    The governor and Senate Republicans have proposed a 2% increase in school funding for the upcoming school year – less than the funding increase for public schools in both 2023 and 2024. After years of persistent underfunding and school closures around the state, the Republican plan would result in half our school districts getting less funding this year than last. It is just another in a series of gut punches for Iowa’s public schools and the students and families they serve.

    The Republican proposal fails to keep pace with rising costs and would leave many school districts strapped for cash and laboring under significant budgetary pressures. Many schools would not be able to provide the resources their students need. More than half of the state’s school districts would be forced to raise property taxes just to keep the lights on in their schools. If that weren’t enough, the governor is also proposing a $32.5 million cut to our AEAs, further depriving Iowa kids, families, and schools of critical resources and services.

    My colleagues and I believe that 2% falls well short of fulfilling our commitment to Iowa’s schools.

    Senate Democrats are proposing a 5% increase in school funding for the more than 482,000 kids in Iowa’s public schools – this equals the same dollar amount Republicans are proposing to give to the roughly 27,000 kids in the voucher program.

    Our proposal allows school districts to adequately address ongoing teacher shortages, invest in modern educational materials, update classroom technology, support special education needs, and expand preschool programs.

    Once upon a time, Iowa’s public schools were among the finest in the nation. It’s time to stop prioritizing the few over the many, adequately fund our public schools, and reassert ourselves as a national leader in public education.


    Iowa’s Workers Deserve a Better Safety Net

    Navigating a job loss is hard. It’s financially complicated and emotionally stressful. We should be streamlining the process and easing the burden so Iowans can get back on their feet and back to work quickly. Instead, Republican lawmakers have created a system that further punishes job loss and adds another stressor for Iowa’s workers.

    Back in 2022, Republican lawmakers made a series of changes to Iowa’s unemployment insurance system that slashed benefits and created unnecessarily complicated bureaucratic hurdles in an effort to dissuade Iowans from even applying for unemployment.

    At a time when it seems I can hardly go a day without seeing news about another round of layoffs or a plant closing, now, more than ever, we need the safety net that unemployment benefits provide for hardworking Iowans seeking their next opportunity.

    This week, I signed on to co-sponsor a bill aimed at addressing one of the changes made to Iowa’s unemployment system in recent years.

    • SF157 would increase the number of weekly benefits from 16 to 26, bringing Iowa back in line with most of the country (38 states provide at least 26 weeks of benefits).

    Iowans want to work. They want to provide for themselves and for their families. We shouldn’t punish them further for losing their jobs. Let’s fix our unemployment system.


    Quick Updates

    • The Iowa Senate Democratic Caucus is extending a warm welcome to our new member, Senator-elect Mike Zimmer! Mike is the president of the Central DeWitt School Board, a longtime professional educator, coach, and small business owner. He will serve Senate District 35 in Eastern Iowa, representing Clinton, Scott, and Jackson counties. We’re excited to bring him on board to help create a better deal for Iowans!
    • Potential changes to the Iowa Civil Rights Act: Senate Democrats are keeping an eye out for legislation to remove gender identity from the Iowa Civil Rights Act, stripping transgender Iowans of anti-discrimination protections in the areas of housing, education, employment, and more. Senate Democrats believe ALL Iowans should be treated fairly and equally by the laws of our state. We will continue to provide you with updates as they happen.
    • Nominations open for the John Lewis Youth Leadership Awards – If you know any young people in your community fighting for civil and voting rights, nominations for the John Lewis Youth Leadership Awards are open through May 31. The awards aim to send the message that age is not a barrier to creating change and every voice matters.
    • Donating to the Fish/Wildlife Fund (also known as the Chickadee Checkoff), on line 21 of your Iowa state tax form 1040, can help support vulnerable wildlife through research, habitat development, and education.
    • Volunteers needed to judge science fair: Iowa State University Extension and Outreach is seeking judges for the State Science and Technology Fair of Iowa. Students in grades 6-12 will participate in the exhibition on March 27-28 at Hilton Coliseum in Ames. The fair is held annually to celebrate the achievements and innovations of students in science and engineering. Organizers will assign judges based on their category preferences, level of education, field of study, and professional experience. To volunteer, please sign up online.
    • SHIIP-SMP Volunteer Medicare Counselors Needed Across Iowa: The Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) and Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) are free, confidential, and unbiased services of the State of Iowa Insurance Division. Applications for the 2025 SHIIP-SMP New Volunteer Training will be accepted through April 20, 2025. Live virtual new volunteer trainings will be available. Learn more about the opportunity and apply through the website: www.shiip.iowa.gov/get-involved.
    • 2025 Iowa Travel Guide Now Available: The new 2025 Iowa Travel Guide is now available to inspire travelers looking to plan a trip to Iowa. The free 148-page guide can be ordered online at traveliowa.com or picked up at any of Iowa’s Welcome Centers and DOT rest areas. An online version is also available.
      • Features in the publication include:
        • Farm-to-Table Dining: Get a literal taste of Iowa at restaurants using fresh, locally sourced products.
        • Mountain Biking: Explore scenic trails that challenge and excite cyclists of all skill levels.
        • Historic Hotels: Step back in time at properties more than a century old.
        • Cozy Winter Getaways: Discover charming cabins and inviting destinations to embrace the colder months.
        • Farm Stays: Experience life on various working farms across the state.

    The Iowa Tourism Office, part of the Iowa Economic Development Authority, works closely with community partners, attractions and events, to promote the state’s beautifully vast scenery and unique history. Tourism in Iowa generated $7.3 billion in expenditures in 2023, with more than $1.1 billion supporting state and local governments, while employing a total of 70,954 people statewide. For more information on everything Iowa has to offer tourists, visit traveliowa.com.


    The Week in Pictures

    First meeting of the week was with Katie Biechler, new Political Organizing Director with Iowa Citizens for Community Improvement. The issues Katie mentioned CCI is interested in this Session are also my issues: vouchers opposition, school board elections, no eminent domain for private gain, and water quality.


    Zoom meeting with Di Findley, Executive Director of Iowa CareGivers, to discuss solutions for Iowa’s Direct Careworker (DCW) shortages. They are asking the legislature to increase wages, modernize the DCW directory, and establish a family caregivers tax credit.

    I have known Di several years now and appreciate her advocacy, intelligence, and compassion. The time is now to enact change, supporting Direct Careworkers.


    In Monday’s Natural Resources Committee, we discussed and passed SF 10, relating to landowners’ and tenants’ turkey hunting licenses. It expands the law to allow the special wild turkey hunting license to be used during any open turkey hunting season. It passed and is now eligible for the full Senate to debate.


    Served on the subcommittee for SSB 1022 related to operational savings. It allows flexibility and more access to shared social workers, mental health professionals, and school resource officers, especially in rural areas.

    I supported the bill; it passed out of sub and can now come before the full Education Committee.


    Monday, I also served on the sub for SSB 1033. The bill simply updates IPERS code, eliminating the snail mail requirement for statements. They will still send it via mail if it’s requested.

    It’s a cost-saving and efficiency measure saving IPERS an estimated $200,000 annually.

    We passed this out of sub and it is now eligible for debate in the full Senate State Government Committee.


    The main reason I chose to run for office again was a passion for ensuring future successes for our youngest Iowans.

    It’s all about the kids.

    United Way of Central Iowa has the same vision and launched a Coalition to Advance Mental Health in Iowa for Kids program (CAMHI4Kids). It represents statewide experts and organizations dedicated to advancing a coordinated approach to address our children’s mental health crisis.

    And it IS a crisis – suicide is the second-leading cause of death among Iowans 15-24. [Iowa Dept of Health and Human Services].

    But there IS hope if we act now, 50% of all lifetime mental illness begins by age 14 and 75% by age 24 (NAMI).

    Thank you to CAMHI4Kids and all advocates for a stronger and more comprehensive children’s mental health system in Iowa!

    With United Way’s Dave Stone and Diana Echeverria; Blank Children’s Hospital, Chaney Carr Yeast; lobbyist Cyndi Pederson and Senator Molly Donahue


    Speaking of Iowa’s youth, Linn-Mar High School teachers brought some of their students to the capitol to discuss their Venture Academics program. Venture is a learning module using coursework in project/community involvement. This is another great example of connecting with local businesses and professionals for the purpose of students gaining exposure to individuals and careers in our community.

    With educators Chelsea Dill, Elyssa McDowell, and Kathleen Wilson Kelley and students Katelyn Castor, MacLynn Hannan, Kyra Bassett, Emma Larson, Reina Gilbertson, and Lucas Digmann.


    Tuesday’s Technology Committee passed SF49 which prohibits use of bots for ticket purchase/resale. It’s a consumer protection bill that passed out of Committee.


    Cedar Rapids Community School District representatives are at the statehouse to discuss the benefits of full-time pre-school and public-school funding.

    With School board president, Cindy Garlock, members David Tominsky, Marcia Roundtree, Truman Early Learning Center Principal Monica Frey, Superintendent Dr. Tawana Grover, Senator Molly Donahue, and State Rep. Aime Wichtendahl.


    Linn-Mar Community School District Superintendent Amy Kortemeyer, Board member Brittania Morey, Midhat Mansoor, and Communications Director Renee Nielson spoke with Senator Molly Donahue and me about their legislative priorities, including increased access to mental health professionals, local accountability, full day preschool, and adequate public school funding.


    Mental health seems to be a theme today as I also had the opportunity to visit with Erin Liz, Director of Linn County’s Mental Health Access Center. Along with Annie Emerson Battien, Clinical Supervisor at Mercy Sedlacek Treatment Center, and Carissa Brown, Dubuque County Public Health Project Coordinator, we discussed substance use services and treatments. The group is concerned that recovery and peer-support is not prominent in the new reorganization. They are also asking for distribution of the opioid settlement funds – still not addressed by either the Iowa House or Senate.

    Glad we have such strong advocates for Iowa’s addiction treatments and mental health services!


    Served on the sub for SF 16 dealing with school district dissolutions and realignments which basically fixes a timing issue of effective dates. It moved out of sub and goes to the full Senate Education Committee.


    Eric Evans is the Iowa Vocational Rehabilitation Services Bureau Chief and a great guy! VR does a stellar job helping those with disabilities enter the workforce. They need to continue to secure state matches to pull down federal dollars.


    As great as it is to pack up my bags every Sunday and head to Des Moines to do good things for Iowans, it’s perhaps even better to open the door of our condo at the end of the week and announce, “I’m home!”

    Bet you understand that feeling also. I know the new owners of Cedar Valley Habitat for Humanity homes certainly get it. I spoke with some of them as I went door-to-door this summer and the pride of homeownership was evident.

    So, it was great to meet with Brittany Scanlon, CV Habitat’s Executive Director. Brittany had a few legislative requests:

    Transfer on death deeds, to help mitigate costs of going through probate

    Increase supply and preservation of decent housing

    Help make housing affordable for all Iowans through property tax relief measures and down payment assistance programs

    “The magic thing about home is that it feels good to leave, and it feels even better to come back.”

    ― Wendy Wunder, The Probability of Miracles


    Good discussion with Des Moines University students about some of the healthcare concerns we’re facing in Iowa. Jordan Samuel, Mallory Britz, and Jessica Duffy shared the college’s legislative priorities which include:

    • Support fully funding Rural Loan Repayment Program
    • Support funding for psychiatric education
    • Support funding and additional in-state graduate medical education opportunities

    Wouldn’t it be awesome if these students stayed in Iowa after graduating, to begin their careers in OB/GYN and psychiatry?


    Served on the sub for SF108 which gives a life jacket exemption when a personal watercraft (jet ski) is traveling 10 mph or less in a no wake zone. So many reasons this could be dangerous and life-threatening for a jet ski rider. No wake zones can be considered high-risk areas due to the nature of navigating at low speeds and in proximity to other vehicles or obstacles. Common causes of accidents include operator inexperience, improper maneuvering, submerged objects, distractions, and sudden changes in direction. Public Safety is the issue.

    This is Sen. Dickey’s bill who was cited by the DNR for not wearing a life jacket on a jet ski moving at a low speed.

    I was a NO vote, but it passed 2-1 out of sub-committee.


    In Wednesday’s State Government Committee, we passed two bills. One was SSB 1033, the IPERS clean-up bill I mentioned earlier, and the other was SSB 1034, from the Secretary of State. The bill adds language to chapter 524 (banking code) that the filer of any document submitted under the code chapter may request extra filing service and the Secretary of State shall provide the service upon the assessment of a surcharge.

    Both bills passed out of committee unanimously and are eligible to come before the full Senate for debate/passage.


    Quick visit with Joe Lock, CEO of Eastern Iowa Health Center, about the harmful impacts of the Trump Administration’s federal spending freeze. The freeze would likely result in many Iowans not receiving healthcare.


    Friend and constituent Garret Frey and Jennifer Jenn Wolff are in Des Moines for Iowa DD Council advocacy day. Spoke with several attendees and the topic was focused on employment. Those with a disability on Medicaid who are working have grave concerns over eligibility (losing benefits) if they exceed income limits. One person’s comment, “We always make too much for benefits but not enough to survive.” Another said, “I WANT to pay taxes, live in a bigger home, and buy a car….no way I can with the income limits.”

    This has got to be remedied.


    Speaking with Matt Herman of the Iowa Soybean Association about their legislative priorities including:

    • Modernizing the Grain Indemnity Fund
    • Limiting civil lawsuits against manufacturers of glyphosate
    • Support research funding at ISU
    • Iowa’s forest and fruit tree tax exemptions reforms

    I do not agree with all these positions but it’s important to listen and understand all sides of the issues impacting Iowans.


    Dollars 2 Donuts, the non-partisan Legislative Services Agency’s quick run-through of various budget issues. Thursday’s topic was school aid presented by Ron Robinson.


    Passed several bills out of the Senate Education Committee, including three I’d served as Ranking Member on the subcommittee:

    SSB 1028 – Pro-life advocacy required sex ed curriculum: SSB 1028 requires the Human Growth and Development curriculum provided by school districts, accredited nonpublic, and charter schools in grades 1-12, to include instruction depicting pregnancy and human development inside the womb. This is the same language as last year’s bill that required the “Meet Baby Olivia” video or a comparable video. This version does not specifically name the video but describes the same requirements.

    SSB 1028 also changes the current law/definition of “research based” for human growth and development classes. The bill strikes from the Iowa Code the references to medical professionals/organizations in determining “complete and unbiased information.” The bill strikes the requirements that this information be free of racial, ethnic, sexual orientation, and gender biases.

    SSB 1053 Sets public school funding (State Supplementary Assistance) at 2%. This is a $149 million dollar state expenditure compared to the $135 million increased cost for vouchers. So public schools with over 482,000 students will get $14 million additional funds than the voucher program with around 27,000 students.

    I was strongly opposed to both bills and voted NO.


    Always great to hear success stories, like Cedar Rapids AMP Coordinator Laticia Aossey’s. Latisha joined an Achieving Maximum Potential Council when she was a teen and is now helping other foster youth build life and leadership skills. I was impressed with students Daishon and Brittany as they spoke about how AMP helps them personally.

  • 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 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.