This week the legislature began debating budget bills on the floor of the House. There are many tough decisions ahead of us as we consider the funding needs of different government areas in Iowa.

Education, job creation, and a balanced budget continue to be my priorities for this session and I am carrying these priorities into our discussions of the budget bills. I am committed to passing a balanced, responsible budget that will not result in surprise cuts down the line to the detriment of citizens of my district and of Iowa.

I have received many emails and phone calls from my constituents concerned with cuts to education funding. As a parent, I share these concerns and am committed to providing as much funding as possible to education to continue to provide the high caliber of educational services we have come to expect for our children.

Please let me know if you have ideas, comments, or suggestions as we continue to discuss budget bills in the coming week.

If you have any friends who are not on the list encourage them to subscribe here.

I look forward to serving you.



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Bill Will Bring Accountability to Tax Credit Spending

The House Ways and Means committee passed legislation to bring accountability, transparency, and common sense to tax credit spending.

House File 2527 suspends the Film Tax Credit for two years, repeals three little used credits, makes adjustments in seven other credits, and cuts the spending cap for various state agency awarded credits from $185 million to $120 million per year. Read More

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Governor Signs Bill to Reorganize State Government

Governor Culver signed one of the largest government reorganization initiatives in state history aimed at saving taxpayers over $265 million. It will also initiate efficiencies in the delivery of services by state government to Iowans.

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

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Jobs Plan Focuses on Small Businesses

The House has approved a jobs plan that will expand critical support for small businesses and help put Iowans back to work.

Despite tough budget times, the House increased support for Small Business Development Centers to provide more one-on-one counseling to assist in small business growth. To find a Small Business Development Center near you, go to www.iowasbdc.org.

The plan also expands MyEntre.net to provide live, on-line support to connect business owners with the services and resources they need. Log on to www.myentre.net for more information. Read More

Governor Signs Veterans Bills into Law

Mental Health Hospitalization Notification on to Governor

Legislature Begins School Board Association Investigation

Bill Licensing Real Estate Closing Agents Sent to Governor

Public Hearings Set For Alliant Electric Rate Increase

Report Shows Program Helps Community Attractions