Statehouse News
March 31, 2010

The 2010 Session of the Iowa House of Representatives adjorned on Tuesday. It has been a short and stressful session, but given the difficult economy and pressing issues we have accomplished a great deal. I thank you all for visiting, emailing, calling and writing during the last two years. Your input and wisdom has been imperative for legislative decisions. It has been a privilege and honor to serve as your State Representative for District 23.

This week I was honored to share with Nels and Joann Wehner of Independence as they were recognized on Gifts to Iowa's Future Recognition Day in March 24 at the Capitol.

On Tuesday, I attended the Association of Iowa Workforce Partners (AIWP) legislative breakfast, where I visited with representatives of Iowa’s local workforce system and persons accessing workforce services. They discussed how Iowa’s workforce programs help people to find jobs and enable the state’s economy to recover. The Association of Iowa Workforce Partners is a statewide partnership of regional Workforce Investment Act partners that serve dislocated workers, PROMISE JOBS participants, youth, and special populations. Member organizations match participants with employment and educational opportunities that make them more self-sufficient members of Iowa’s workforce and communities.

Balanced Budget & Jobs Focus of 2010 Session

When the 2010 session began, legislators promised to keep the focus on the priorities of Iowans -- balancing the budget, strengthening Iowa’s economy, and creating jobs.

As Iowa begins to emerge from the national recession, legislators approved a balanced state budget without raising taxes.

The fiscal year 2011 budget, which begins on July 1, spends less than the budget last year and even less than the budget approved four years ago.

As required by state law, the blueprint next year spends only 99% of state revenues and puts over $200 million in the state’s savings account. Read More

Government Reorganization Saves $265 Million

The General Assembly has approved two major pieces of legislation that will save taxpayer’s $265 million and result in a more efficient delivery of government services to Iowans.

Senate File 2088 contains over 50 different ideas, both large and small to reorganize state government. It eliminates 14 different boards and commissions, combines state purchasing, consolidates information technology within state government, and cuts down on middle management to keep front line workers in their jobs. Read More

Jobs & Small Business Assistance

To help Iowans through the national recession, the legislature worked to create good paying jobs and to help Iowans find work.

A new $5.2 million small business loan fund is created to help small businesses and entrepreneurs expand and create jobs. Another measure will allow more small businesses to qualify for low-interest loans through their bank. In addition, a website clearinghouse is created with information on all technical and financial assistance available for businesses in Iowa. Read More

Contact Gene:
gene.ficken@legis.state.ia.us
1827 218th Street
Independence, IA 50644
319-334-4905 (Home)
515-281-3221 (Capitol)
www.geneficken.com