The 2010 legislative session has adjourned for the year and I'm proud of our record listening to your ideas and acting on your priorities. We helped Iowa's children receive a quality education, created good paying jobs and helped Iowa's small businesses, all while balancing the state budget without raising taxes.

You will be receiving a newsletter from me during the interim every other week. I encourage you to contact me with your ideas and suggestions. 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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Iowa's Economy Grows; Adds 15,400 Jobs

A host of new reports out this month show Iowa's economy gaining strength and adding 15,400 jobs in the first three months of the year.

According to the Iowa Department of Revenue, Iowa's March 2010 index of leading economic indicators posted the largest single monthly increase since the index was established 11 years ago. The March report was also the sixth straight month of positive changes in the index.

The report noted the strong job gains of 15,400 is over a quarter of the jobs lost in Iowa during the recession. Read More

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Standardizing Weapons Permits

After years of discussion, lawmakers overwhelmingly approved a bill to standardize the way sheriffs in all 99 counties issue or deny permits to carry weapons, as well as training standards.

Often referred to as the "shall issue" bill, beginning on January 1, 2011, county sheriffs will have 30 days to either approve or deny an application to carry a weapon. If the sheriff doesn't take action on the application within 30 days, the application is automatically approved. Read More

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Farmers Markets Sales Grow 92%

Already a national leader, sales at farmers markets in Iowa has grown 92% over the last five years. Iowa has also seen the number of markets increase by more than 75% over the past 15 years.

A new report by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) estimates $59.4 million in direct and indirect sales last year from farmers markets and an additional $12.2 million of personal income for our farmers and vendors. In addition, 374 direct jobs and over 200 indirect jobs could be attributed to the activities of farmers markets. Read More

New Flood Recovery Assistance for Businesses