The 2010 legislative session is underway and we have a lot of work ahead of us. My priorities this year include balancing the budget, quality education and creating good jobs. I encourage you to contact me with your ideas and suggestions.

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I look forward to serving you.



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State to Save $60 Million in First Step of Reorganization

To help keep the state budget balanced, while maintaining key priorities in education and job creation, the House approved an early retirement plan that is estimated to save the state $60 million next year.

Under the Early Retirement Incentive program, a state employee who is at least 55 years old and files an application by April 15, 2010, is eligible to participate in the program. The employee must leave state employment by June 24, 2010. The employee cannot return to state employment if they leave under this plan. Read More

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Guaranteed Holiday for Veterans

The House Veterans Affairs Committee believes every veteran should be honored for their service. In an unanimous, bi-partisan vote, the committee approved a bill that will give Iowa veterans Veteran’s Day off.

House File 2197 requires that a veteran, at least one month in advance, can request Veteran’s Day off with their employer. In addition, the veteran must show proof of service. Read More

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House Passes WARN Notice to Employees

In an effort to give middle class families more stability, the Iowa House approved a bill that will give workers more notice before layoffs occur.

Similar to federal law, House File 681 requires employers of 25 or more full-time people to notify employees, or their representatives, and the department of workforce development of business closings that result in a layoff of 25 or more full-time employees in a 30-day period. Read More

Winter Officially a Disaster for 28 Counties

Protecting Iowans from Dishonest Auto Repair Shops

Care of Animals Legislation Passes Committee

Iowa Rails Receive Two Federal Grants

Protecting Iowa’s Children

Homelessness Study Released