Iowa Senate Blog

Senate Leader Gronstal on Iowa Press

2007-11-07T16:18:00.001-06:00

Watch the show, read the transcript or download the audio.

Why is Iowa Student Debt So High?

2007-11-07T08:40:00.003-06:00

Robert Shireman of the Projectonstudentdebt.org was asked to discuss Iowa college student debt levels--among the highest in the nation--with members of the Legislative Oversight Committee.

Type rest of the post here

Democrats put record amount in state rainy day funds

2007-05-22T15:04:00.000-05:00

Iowa's new Democratic Legislature worked with Governor Culver to fill Iowa's state savings accounts to their highest level ever: $592 million. That's a growth of more than $400 million in the last four years. In related news, since 2004 the Legislature has repaid $163 million of the $300 million owed to the Senior Living Trust Fund.

Various versions of the Rainy Day Funds chart.

70 successes of the 2007 Session

2007-05-22T11:52:00.000-05:00

First-term State Senator Rob Hogg sent his constituents the following list of 70 accomplishments from the 2007 legislative session.

Seventy Accomplishments for 2007 (you can review all bills in the "bill book" at the legislative web site, www.legis.state.ia.us)

EDUCATION

Preschool ($15 million per year) (HF877)
4% allowable growth for schools ($108 million) (SF109)
Teacher pay (approximately $4,000 per teacher) (SF277)
Grants for "supplemental strategies" to reach grade level ($2.5 million) (SF588)
More aid for private school students and school tuition organizations (SF588/SF601)
Math and science initiative ($200,000 grant) (HF829)
Before and after school programs ($1 million) (HF907/SF588/SF601)
Record level of support for community colleges
$12.4 million general aid increase (SF588)
$2 million dedicated for community college faculty salaries (SF601)
$4.5 million dedicated for renewable energy workforce (HF927/HF911)
New biorenewable research facility at Iowa State (HF911)
New institute for biomedical discovery at University of Iowa (HF911)
Bonding for new chemistry building at Iowa State (HF920)
Bonding for new college of public health building at Iowa (HF920)
Additional $25 million for university operations and tuition control (SF588)
Increase in Iowa Tuition Grant Program ($1.8 million increase) (SF588)
Create All-Iowa Opportunity Grants for college aid (SF588/SF601)

HEALTH CARE

Raise tobacco tax (SF128)
Funding and outreach to add 10,750 children for health coverage (HF909)
Funding to add nearly 6,000 low-income parents under Medicaid (HF909)
More funding for tobacco prevention & cessation (~$12 million) (HF907/HF909)
Allow additional stem cell research (SF162)
Authorize small business health insurance pooling (HF790)
Require insurers to accept uniform health insurance applications (SF346)
$17 million in new funding for county mental health/disability programs (HF909)
3% provider increase for all child welfare providers ($3.2 million) (HF909)
Lead testing for students by age 6 (HF158/HF909)

ENERGY AND ECONOMY

Create Iowa Power Fund ($25 million for four years) (HF927/HF918)
State energy plan including policy recommendations (HF918)
Climate change advisory council (SF485)
Renewable energy workforce programs ($2.5 million) (HF927)
New transportation funding formula (HF932)
Expand historic preservation tax credits from $6.4 million to $20 million (SF566)
Create Iowa film industry incentives (HF892)
Targeted industries expansion, including workforce, lean manufacturing (HF829)
Fund state and local housing trust funds ($2.5 million) (HF911)
Extend the community attraction and tourism program to 2013 (SF601)
Additional funding for tourism ($250,000) and Main Street ($400,000) (SF562)
Additional funding for small business development centers ($250,000) (SF562)
Recreational Trails - $2 million (HF911)
REAP funding - $4 million increase (SF551)
Expand civil rights protections (SF427)
"Generation Iowa" Commission (HF617)

PUBLIC SAFETY

Keg registration (HF650)
Expand child abuse prevention programming ($200,000) (HF909)
Trooper overtime pay (SF601)
Opened new Oakdale prison facility and added 37 correctional officers (SF575)
Create drug court in Linn and Johnson Counties (SF575)
Community corrections mental health facility in Cedar Rapids (HF911)
Hire additional OSHA inspectors to comply with federal guidelines (SF562)

"ZERO POVERTY" INITIATIVES

Raise the minimum wage (HF1)
Cap interest rates for car title loans (HF5)
Authorized new short-term, small-dollar loans by credit unions (SF347)
Fully funded legal aid ($2 million) (SF575/SF601)
Expanded the earned income tax credit ($10 million) (SF590)
Assessment and resolution program for energy assistance ($400,000) (HF909)
Fully fund child care assistance to avoid waiting list ($16.4 million increase) (HF909)

FAMILY AND SENIOR ISSUES

Fund office of substitute decision-maker (HF909)
Alzheimer's training and task force and dementia care training (SF489/HF909)
Continue funding for case management for the frail elderly (HF909)
Continue phase out tax on social security and increase in filing threshold
Grandparent and great-grandparent visitation (HF909)
Foster care sibling visitation (SF480)
Funding for the Chief Justice's Children's Justice Initiative (SF563/SF575)

VETERAN ISSUES

Veterans homeowner assistance program (SF95/SF601)
Injured veterans grant program (SF95)
Vietnam Veterans Bonus (June 30, 1973 to May 7, 1975) (SF578)
Expand charitable bingo and raffles (SF414)

ELECTION ISSUES

Same day election voter registration (HF653)
Voter verified paper trails (SF369/HF911)

FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY

Fill the cash reserve fund ($444 million projected)
Restore the economic emergency fund ($138 million projected)
Repay the senior living trust fund ($144 million projected)
Fully funded the state Medicaid program (HF909)
School sharing and reorganization incentives (SF447)

‘Road map’ to increase public safety

2007-04-20T10:33:00.000-05:00

In 2006, the Legislature requested a comprehensive study of the Iowa prison system. Last Friday, the Durrant Group of Dubuque presented its findings to the Iowa Board of Corrections.

The study found that Iowa has dedicated and talented staff throughout the correctional system who are doing an outstanding job with available resources.
At the same time, the study outlined these concerns:

· Iowa’s prisons are overcrowded.
· There is a lack of consistency in the classification of prisoners.
· There is a critical need for appropriate mental health, drug treatment, and follow-up care.
· There is a need for gender-specific treatment.

These concerns and others create a lack of safety for employees at the institutions. In addition, they reveal that resources need to be used more efficiently. The Durrant Group has provided a “road map” for the Legislature to consider.

One of their first recommendations is to address the issues of women prisoners. They recommend that all female prisoners be housed at one facility and that there be a more reliable classification system as many women are currently “over-classified” as maximum security prisoners.

In addition, the report calls for gender specific mental health, substance abuse, and sex offender treatment. Research has shown that with appropriate treatment, female prisoners have a lower recidivism rate than males. It is possible that with appropriate classification and treatment, Iowa could significantly reduce its number of female prisoners.

The Legislature will now study the report and its recommendations to determine how to best improve public safety in our prisons and across the stat

Senate approves initiative to bring access to high quality preschool to all Iowa families

2007-04-19T08:20:00.000-05:00

(DES MOINES) On Wednesday, April 18, the democrats helped the Iowa Senate approve a four-year initiative that will expand access to high quality, voluntary preschool to all Iowa families.

“There are a higher percentage of two parent families in which both parents work in Iowa than in any other state, yet only 30 percent of Iowa families have access to high quality preschools,” State Senator Staci Appel of Ackworth said. “House File 877 works with public and private schools, churches and childcare providers to extend these opportunities to the 28,000 Iowa four-year-olds who are mostly from families who either do not have access to high quality preschool choices or can’t afford to give their children this advantage.”

Each child that benefits from House File 877 will receive a minimum of ten hours of class time with a qualified preschool teacher. This is a voluntary effort that will work with existing private and public preschools. The legislation uses Iowa’s existing K12 school system to help manage issues dealing with budgeting, personnel and facilities. $15 million will be invested next year, and that investment will increase by $15 million annually for the next three years.

“Business leaders in our communities agree that access to high quality preschools helps recruit and keep the best employees,” Senator Becky Schmitz of Fairfield, a former school social worker, said. “When working parents know their kids are safe and are learning, they can focus on their work and do a great job for their employers.”

The legislation will create a long-term, sustainable funding mechanism that will help Iowa’s public and private preschools become as well regarded as Iowa’s K12 schools.

“We have some outstanding public and private preschools in Iowa that are doing a great job for families. The benefits children receive from attending one of these high quality preschools are obvious when they start kindergarten, and continue as they move to graduation,” Senator Bill Heckroth of Waverly said. “This legislation will help these organizations improve and expand the effort they are making to help every child start school ready to learn.”

Lawmakers demand change from Wal-Mart

2007-04-18T14:36:00.000-05:00

In an event at the Statehouse on Tuesday, Senator Jack Hatch of Des Moines called on major corporations to provide adequate wages and health insurance for their employees. Hatch said that Iowa taxpayers should not subsidize the profits of some of the largest corporations in the country by taking health insurance away from children that need it. To prevent this sort of abuse and corporate welfare, legislators want the tools to gather information to help ensure that Iowa’s largest employers do the responsible thing and pay the health care cost of their employees. (Photo: Soheila Yalpani)

Senator Appel on Preschool Program

2007-04-18T14:26:00.000-05:00

Iowa Senator Staci Appel discusses new Iowa legislation that would put at least 90 percent of Iowa toddlers in a preschool program.

CRG Dems push for offender legislation

2007-04-18T13:40:00.000-05:00

Dems push for offender legislation
Rod Boshart

DES MOINES - Democrats who control the Iowa Senate said they plan to forge ahead today with legislation intended to establish safe zones around schools, parks and other places where children congregate to better protect them from sexual predators.

The safe zones provision -- where offenders could not be present without written permission from the authority in charge near schools, child-care facilities, arcades, public parks, swimming pools, libraries and other places -- has been part of a more expansive proposal to expand protections against sexual offenders that has been discussed for much of the 2007 session.

But backers now worry the package may stall and they want to push ahead with pieces they believe have consensus to get passed and to the governor's desk yet this session.

Sen. Keith Kreiman, D-Bloomfield, said majority Democrats have decided to proceed with the debate to "kick start the process and get some movement from Republicans and Democrats" in hopes of forging an agreement this year.

"I think it's going to be much more difficult to get it done next year than it would be this year," Kreiman said, given that 2008 is an election year. "I just think it's too important of an issue to not get something done," he added.

Senate GOP Leader Mary Lundby of Marion said Republicans are insisting that there be no change in Iowa's current law that bars offenders convicted of crimes with minors from residing within 2,000 feet of a school or daycare center.

"We're willing to look at additional money for monitoring and assessments. We're willing to look at improvements that make it safer, but we're not willing to do away with the 2,000-foot rule," said Lundby. "We're not interested in making it easier for criminals."

DARE kids meet senator

2007-04-17T14:24:00.000-05:00

Sixth-grade students from East Buchanan Middle School in Winthrop celebrated completion of the DARE (Drug Alcohol Resistance Education) program by touring the State Capitol in Des Moines on Tuesday. DARE teaches children to stay away from drugs. The students were greeted at the Statehouse by their state senator, Brian Schoenjahn of Arlington, who encouraged them to remember the healthy lifestyle lessons taught in the DARE program. The students were accompanied by Sheriff Bill Wolfgram of Buchanan County. (4/17/07, Credit: Soheila Yalpani)

Meyer confirmed as public safety head

2007-04-17T14:22:00.000-05:00

By JONATHAN ROOS
REGISTER STAFF WRITER

Gov. Chet Culver's appointment of Gene Meyer as public safety commissioner
received the approval of the Iowa Senate this afternoon, reversing a vote taken a week ago.

A handful of Republican state senators who had opposed the Democratic governor's selection of Meyer to head the Department of Public Safety switched sides.

Confirmation requires the approval of two-thirds of the Senate, or 34 members. Today's vote was 38-12. The Senate vote last Tuesday was 32-17, which fell two votes short of the number needed to make Meyer's appointment permanent.

GOP leaders have voiced concerns about whether Meyer, as a department “insider” who’d been in charge of the Division of Criminal Investigation until retiring in 2006, could fairly administer the entire state agency. The department also includes the Iowa
State Patrol, state fire marshal’s office and narcotics enforcement division.

Sen. John Putney of Gladbrook, one of the Republican senators who had a change of heart in voting for Meyer today, said concerns he had about the former West Des Moines mayor were laid to rest after conferring with law enforcement officials both inside and outside the Iowa Department of Public Safety.

“I personally am confident that Gene Meyer has the expertise and the vision to lead the Department of Public Safety,” Putney said.

Meyer, a political independent, was chosen by Culver in early January to begin serving as public safety commissioner.

Public interested in solving transportation challenge

2007-04-16T12:44:00.000-05:00

A recent nine-city “road show” by two key legislators showed there is great public interest in improving the state’s transportation system, including how it can better support local efforts to expand job creation.

Senator Tom Rielly, the Democratic chair of the Senate Transportation Committee, and the top Republican on the committee, Senator Larry Noble, traveled across Iowa to listen to Iowans’ concerns about our state’s transportation issues.

Iowa has nearly 114,000 miles of highways, roads and streets under the jurisdiction of the Iowa Department of Transportation and the state’s 99 counties and 947 cities.

Nationally, our state ranks 12th in number of miles of roadway and fifth in number of bridges. These are parts of Iowa’s transportation infrastructure that past generations built to help our state grow and prosper.

The transportation investments we’ve made in recent years, however, have not kept up with demand. In fact, at the rate we are going, we will have a $27.7 billion problem over the next 20 years, including a $4 billion shortfall affecting our most critical road infrastructure needs.

The reason that Senators Rielly and Noble visited nine communities and held meetings with more than 500 Iowans was to help find the answer to that problem.

This is not a simple issue. As our state’s economy grows and changes, our transportation needs change.

For example, truck traffic has grown by 51 percent since 1990, in part because of the increased truck traffic required to ship corn to existing ethanol plants. This means more wear on the roads, safety concerns, and congestion as trucks queue to enter the plants.

At the public meetings, there were few people willing to let Iowa’s transportation system stagnate and decline. Suggestions on how to pay for our transportation needs included raising the gas tax, increasing pickup fees, building toll roads, approving a statewide penny sales tax, and increasing license fees. Attendees also had ideas for improving our transportation infrastructure, such as expanding rail traffic, developing new recreation trails, building regional airports, and improving locks and dams.

You probably won’t be surprised to hear that the “Transportation Road Show” did not uncover a magic answer that will solve our transportation budget problem and win universal agreement.

Legislators intend to keep listening and working on this issue, though. It is a big challenge that can only be solved by a bipartisan approach.

I will keep you updated on our progress, and I would appreciate your ideas as we make our generation’s contribution to Iowa’s transportation system.

Photo Credit: Jason Hancock

Senate boosts investment in clean-up and recreation initiatives

2007-04-13T12:46:00.000-05:00

The Iowa Senate voted this week to expand clean-up efforts and create more recreational opportunities across the state.

The Agriculture and Natural Resources budget includes a $4.5 million increase in funding for the popular Resource Enhancement and Protection program, bringing REAP’s total funding to $15.5 million.

REAP provides funding for conservation and natural resource projects in communities throughout Iowa.

For example, local governments apply for REAP dollars to improve or expand parks and other recreational opportunities in their communities. Soil and water conservation districts may receive funding to improve water quality. REAP money is also available for state parks and historical sites.

REAP has been highly successful over the years. By increasing funding, we are investing in Iowa’s quality of life, expanding recreational and tourism opportunities, and making our state a more attractive place to live, work, and raise a family.

State insurance chief quizzed on Conseco deal

2007-04-13T12:42:00.000-05:00

Iowa Insurance Commissioner Susan Voss appeared before a special joint meeting of the Senate and House Commerce Committees on Tuesday to answer questions on an agreement reached with Conseco Life Insurance Company in March.

Under Iowa law, Voss was unable to get restitution for Iowans who were overcharged by the insurer. Instead, she fined Conseco $750,000 for wrongfully removing parts of life insurance policies without telling customers.

Conseco denied that it violated Iowa laws or insurance regulations but paid the fine. However, details of the agreement were kept confidential in a “memorandum of understanding.” Since the Iowa Insurance Division (IID) agreed not to proceed with further action against Conseco, it did not issue a final report, which would have been public record.

The IID had investigated Conseco's use of an obscure pricing mechanism, called an R-Factor, which lowers insurance policy costs but also works to the disadvantage of the owners when used with a life insurance policy.

As a result of a class-action lawsuit against Conseco in a California federal court, the company agreed to a settlement that would collectively give policyholders nationwide up to $400 million in cash or credits. About 1,000 Iowans may be entitled to a portion of that money.

Voss said the IID’s agreement with Conseco allowed Iowa policyholders to benefit from the California action and allowed the state to collect the civil penalty.

"Our number one concern is consumer protection,'' Voss said.

The Commissioner cannot legally order Conseco or any other insurer to make restitution to policyholders. When asked by committee members, Voss said changing Iowa law to allow such action would be beneficial. Several lawmakers expressed interest in pursuing legislation that would open up the IID's limited authority over the companies it regulates.

Documents regarding Conseco are available on the Insurance Division’s Web site at http://www.iid.state.ia.us/news_media/whatsnew.asp.

Pioneers honored at Statehouse

2007-04-12T10:26:00.000-05:00

The Pioneer Lawmakers Association of Iowa inducted the Class of 1987, which includes current and former state senators and representatives who began their legislative service 20 years ago. The ceremony was presided over by Senator Mike Connolly of Dubuque.

Lions, tigers, and bears: Oh my!

2007-04-12T08:39:00.000-05:00

Iowa Senator Joe Seng discusses new legislation banning the acquisition of dangerous and wild animals.

Legislature supports Main Street Iowa

2007-04-11T10:01:00.000-05:00

Senator Bill Heckroth speaks about the importance of the Main St. Iowa program, and about the support the Iowa Legislature has invested in the program.

Senate Republicans vote to reject nominee to head Department of Public Safety

2007-04-11T08:47:00.000-05:00

Dan Gearino
Globe Des Moines Bureau

DES MOINES — Iowa Senate Republicans gave Gov. Chet Culver a political punch in the nose Tuesday night, voting to reject his appointee for commissioner of the Department of Public Safety.

The appointee, Gene Meyer of West Des Moines, will become unemployed because he only got 31 votes out of 50 for confirmation, three votes short of the two-thirds he needed. Meyer is the former head of the Division of Criminal Investigation, an office within the public safety department. He is also the former mayor of West Des Moines.

Senate Majority Leader Mike Gronstal, D-Council Bluffs, decried the vote in terms rarely heard on the Senate floor.

“This is the most gutless display I’ve seen in my 25 years in the Senate and I’m not ashamed to say I’m angry,” he said.

He also called GOP senators “a bunch of political hacks.”

Democrats hold a 30-20 majority in the Senate. The Republican minority has little power to pass legislation, but enough power to reject gubernatorial appointees.

Senate Minority Leader Mary Lundby, R-Marion, said Republicans think the leader of the Department of Public Safety should come from outside the department.

“The reasoning for that is so that the person doesn’t come in with biases toward certain people or divisions within the department,” she said.

Lundby said past directors have come from outside, which she thinks is a good tradition.

After Gronstal’s comments on the Senate floor, Lundby noted that Meyer is a Republican. She said Gronstal insisted on brining the confirmation up for a vote Tuesday night, rather than discuss Republican concerns.

The action comes a day after Lundby and Culver had a closed-door meeting to talk about Republican objections to the governor’s four nominees for the Board of Regents. Republicans have said they will reject some of the Regents’ nominees because there are no candidates from western Iowa and no candidates with experience on medical issues.

Two Republicans voted for Meyer’s confirmation: Pat Ward of West Des Moines and Brad Zaun of Urbandale.

“I’ve known him for a number of years. I have respect for him as an individual and respect his service to the community,” Ward said earlier in the day.

In a procedural move, Gronstal switched his vote at the last minute so he would be on the prevailing side. This allows him to file a motion to reconsider and bring the nomination up again if Democrats can persuade two more Republicans to support it. Technically, the rejection of Meyer won’t be final until Gronstal lifts his motion.

The vote against Meyer is part of a larger tug-of-war between Senate Republicans and Culver over appointments. Republicans have threatened to reject some of the governor’s four nominees for the Board of Regents because there are no candidates from western Iowa and no candidates with experience on medical issues.

Gronstal condemns the Republicans' rejection of appointee

2007-04-11T08:30:00.000-05:00

Statement by Senate Leader Mike Gronstal on the rejection of Public Safety Commissioner appointee Gene Meyer

On Tuesday, April 10, the Republican minority of the Iowa Senate voted almost unanimously against the appointment of Republican Gene Meyer to be
Commissioner of the Iowa Department of Public Safety, denying him
the 2/3 majority needed to be approved. Senate Leader Mike Gronstal delivered a blistering rebuke after the vote.

“Gene Meyer is a victim of cruel game-playing by gutless Republican legislators.

“Gene Meyer is a Republican who has all the qualifications necessary to be a great Commissioner of the Iowa Department of Public Safety. He has the strong support of the Iowa State Troopers Association and other members of the law enforcement community.

“During last fall’s election, Iowans made it clear that they are sick and tired of partisan bickering and gridlock. Republicans still haven’t gotten the message.

“I hope Republican legislators will reconsider their vote and confirm Gene Meyer. More important, I implore Republican legislators to turn down the partisan heat and seriously consider all of Governor Culver’s appointees to key positions and commissions.”

Local legislators push their plans as session nears end

2007-04-10T08:18:00.000-05:00

CHARLOTTE EBY,
Courier Des Moines Bureau

DES MOINES --- With just three weeks remaining until the Iowa Legislature's scheduled ending, Cedar Valley lawmakers are hoping their key priorities make it through before the gavel falls upon adjournment.

At the top of the list for Rep. Mark Kuhn, D-Charles City, is new livestock regulations that have proven controversial this year and previous years in the Legislature.

Kuhn has co-sponsored a bill that would extend the distance new livestock confinement facilities would have to be built from homes, businesses, tourist destinations and other protected areas. Other standards are in place to protect water sources.

Ag groups, including the Iowa Farm Bureau, have opposed the legislation, but environmental groups support it.

House leaders gave the bill new life last week by referring it to another committee after it faced opposition in the House Agriculture Committee.

Kuhn wants to see good faith negotiations between farmers and environmentalists to find something they can agree on.

"We have to find some common ground," Kuhn said. "We have to work to balance the ability of the industry to grow, yet restore some of those rights to neighbors."

A wide range of other bills are topping the to-do lists of other area lawmakers.

State Sen. Bill Heckroth, D-Waverly, is hoping to see the final passage of legislation that would help a local business.

An Iowa law that prohibits emergency vehicle manufacturers from also selling them is hampering a Sumner ambulance dealer, Heckroth said.

Legislation sponsored by Heckroth would help Life Line Emergency Vehicles and other manufacturers.

"It was a specific thing that helps them. They've got 180 employees up there, and it's only a problem in the state of Iowa," Heckroth said.

The measure already has cleared the Senate 50-0 and is awaiting consideration in the House.

Rep. Tami Wiencek, R-Waterloo, wants to see approval of a measure she co-sponsored that is intended to help keep new college graduates in the state. The plan, called the Iowa Advantage Fund, would extend tax credits to Iowa employers that agree to help pay down student loan debt to new employees who have just graduated from college.

Wiencek said she is optimistic it will be passed in the closing weeks of the session.

"I think there's a chance it will still get through," Wiencek said.

Rep. Bob Kressig, D-Cedar Falls, is eager to see an early childhood education package that passed the House gain approval in the Senate.

The plan would help expand pre-school programs around the state and provide for a licensed instructor at least 10 hours each week. He said quality pre-school programs are important for early brain development and help prepare children for school.

"It makes so much sense to me that we really focus on that," Kressig said.

Statement by Senate Leader Mike Gronstal on Revenue Estimating Council Estimates

2007-04-06T12:17:00.000-05:00

“Today’s revised estimate of state revenue for the next fiscal year confirms the need for Republicans and Democrats to take the steps necessary to put our fiscal house back in order while attempting to meets Iowa’s priorities. That’s why we were prudent to develop a state budget plan that will be balanced, comply with Iowa’s expenditure-limitation law, and fully fund the state’s Cash Reserve Fund.

“The new state revenue projections also point out the need to take bolder steps to grow the Iowa economy by investing more resources in alternative energy and other initiatives that will create more good-paying jobs and make us less dependent on foreign oil.

“I am proud of our efforts to simultaneously adopt better budgeting practices and work in a bipartisan manner to keep the Legislature’s commitments to Iowa’s students, families and communities.”

Teacher pay bill sails through House

2007-04-06T10:29:00.000-05:00

By JENNIFER JACOBS
REGISTER STAFF WRITER

Additional $145 million over two years approved

Iowa teachers will likely each get an extra $3,600, on average, next school year.

The year after that, each of the state's 36,000 teachers will see about $5,400 more in their annual salaries.

The Iowa House on Thursday voted 90-7 in favor of spending an extra $70 million on teacher salaries in the fiscal year that starts July 1, then another $75 million the next year.

"That's a lot of money. I'm just elated," said B.J. Garrison, 56, a Norwalk Middle School art teacher of 28 years. "It's about time Iowa got with the program."

Garrison said both of his parents had died by the time he was 13.

"I can remember when I was a little kid, all the people I respected the most were teachers," he said.

The plan had already passed the Iowa Senate but because the House amended it slightly, it now bounces back to the Senate.

By the 2008-09 school year, the total spending for teacher salaries, mentoring, professional development, and voluntary training for national board certification would be $249 million, up from $104 million this year.

The new spending in Senate File 277 could bring Iowa teacher salaries from 40th in the nation to 25th by the 2008-09 school year - as long as other states maintain current spending, said Rep. Cindy Winckler, a Democrat from Davenport.

Another goal of the bill is to ensure that all children have access to a school nurse, librarian and counselor, she said.

If districts can't afford to hire those three positions at least part time, schools could opt to ask for permission for a property tax increase.

"The 365 school districts in Iowa collectively have $635 million in cash reserves, so we think they can afford that," Winckler said.

Republicans were critical of the plan, saying they don't believe higher pay equals better teachers or higher student achievement.

Teachers who are not meeting teacher-quality standards will still get a pay raise above a cost-of-living increase, said Rep. Jodi Tymeson, a Republican from Winterset.

"It's too bad the bill rewards good teachers and ineffective teachers equally," she said.

Winckler said that's inaccurate. Districts have the authority to keep the pay level the same for teachers who are not meeting expectations, she said.

House Minority Leader Christopher Rants said the legislation has nothing to do with helping children become better students but instead is all about paying back the teachers' unions for pouring money into Democratic campaigns.

"That certainly wasn't my motivation in working so hard on this bill," Winckler said. "To me the bill is about great opportunities for our kids when they have quality teachers in the classroom."

All Democrats and 37 out of 46 Republicans in the House voted in favor of the bill. Opponents, all Republicans, were Reps. Dwayne Alons, Betty De Boef, Sandy Greiner, Polly Granzow, Scott Raecker, Jim Van Engelenhoven and Ralph Watts.

Three people were absent: Democrat Ray Zirkelbach, who's deployed in Iraq, and Republicans Royd Chambers and Dan Clute.

Reporter Jennifer Janeczko Jacobs can be reached at (515) 284-8127 or jejacobs@dmreg.com

Democratic Leaders Tout Accomplishments; More Work on the Way

2007-04-05T10:00:00.000-05:00

House majority leader, Representative Kevin McCarthy speaks at a Thursday press conference.

“There are many reasons why we have a Democratic legislature and Democratic Governor in Iowa for the first time in 40 years. One of the biggest reasons for the Democratic successes in the 2006 election was that our party is working harder to listen to Iowans,” said Senate Whip Tom Courtney of Burlington.

“During the more than 10 years that Republicans controlled the Legislature, they stopped listening to Iowans,” said House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy of Des Moines. “Instead of focusing on the bread and butter issues that most Iowans care about, they focused on Republican political wedge issues.”

“In 2006, Iowans voted for positive change and we are delivering results,” said House Speaker Pat Murphy of Dubuque. “We are on track to keep the promises we made to Iowans in our Plan for Prosperity.”

The leaders outlined a top ten list of accomplishments so far:

1. Moving to recruit and retain the best teachers by increasing teacher pay to 25th in the nation

2. Boosting basic school funding, expanding the early childhood efforts and making higher education more affordable

3. Passing the Safe Schools initiative

4. Raising the state’s minimum wage

5. Lifting restrictions on stem-cell research

6. Reforming election laws to allow Election-Day Registration and to increase voter turnout and confidence

7. Cracking down on car-title loan companies and other predatory lenders

8. Raising the tobacco tax and discouraging smoking, especially by young Iowans

9. Expanding access to affordable health care for all Iowans

10. Helping small businesses afford health care through pooling, the uniform application form, and preparing for more fundamental reforms thought the “Interim Commission on Affordable Health Care for Small Businesses and Families.”

“Iowans can be assured that we aren’t done yet. More good news is on the way as we work on the Iowa Power Fund, take up the various budget bills, and finish other legislation,” said Courtney. “Iowans asked to get our state moving forward again; Democrats listened, and we are now delivering on their requests.”

Increasing commitment to fight Internet predators, protect Iowa children

2007-04-05T08:20:00.000-05:00

With the advent of the Internet, Iowans have easy access to a wealth of information and resources. Unfortunately, use of the Internet also carries risks, particularly for young users.

In 2004, the state Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) received a federal grant to create the Iowa Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, which allows law enforcement agencies across Iowa to work together on investigations of sexual exploitation of children over the Internet.

The Senate Appropriations Committee voted last week to appropriate nearly $400,000 and to authorize hiring three full-time DCI employees to expand the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.

A major component of the Task Force is training parents, teachers, librarians, community leaders and others to be aware of the dangers of the Internet, as well as the steps that can be taken to protect children from Internet predators and other dangers.

The Task Force also investigates Internet sex crimes. For example, help is available to a parent whose child has been contacted by an adult attempting to entice them into a meeting for sexual contact of some kind. In such a case, agents would step in to build a case and make an arrest if the adult attempts to meet the child.

In addition, the Task Force has digital forensics capabilities for analyzing digital evidence. This could include examining a computer hard drive seized in connection with a child pornography case or to build a case against an individual who attempts to meet and have sex with a child they met over the Internet.

During 2006 the Task Force participated in more than 80 arrests of adults traveling to or within Iowa with the intention of meeting and having sex with a child. By increasing our commitment to these efforts to target and catch people that use the Internet to prey on Iowa children, we can send a message that it’s not safe to be a sexual predator in Iowa.

For information about the Task Force and Internet safety resources, go to www.iowaicac.org.

Senator Warnstadt on the creation of a Health Care Commission

2007-04-04T15:29:00.000-05:00

Making health care accessible to more Iowans

Senate passes legislation to provide legal protections for funeral plans

2007-04-04T15:23:00.000-05:00

Senator Brian Schoenjahn speaks about the legislation

The Iowa Senate passed legislation this week to allow Iowans to create a legal document indicating what they want done with their bodies when they die. This includes ensuring what kind of ceremony, if any, you want to have performed upon your death.

Currently, there is no provision in Iowa law that legally requires survivors to honor your wishes about what you want done with your remains after you die. Thus, even though you may have told family members what type of funeral you desire, once you die, family members are not legally bound to respect your wishes.

Senate File 473 would change that. If this bill becomes law, you will be able to execute a legally binding document indicating what type of services you want upon your death and the person you choose to carry out your wishes.

The bill was drafted by a working group of legislators and approximately 30 representatives from the Iowa Insurance Division, the Iowa Department of Elder Affairs, the Attorney General’s Office, and the Iowa State Bar Association.

School nurses watch as school salary legislation unfolds

2007-04-04T09:12:00.000-05:00

By MICHAEL NEARY
Fort Dodge Messenger

Amendment would include nurses in proposed teacher salary increase

Cooper Elementary School nurse Juli Springer helps third-grader Emma Gibson, 9, tally her weight.

Members of the state House of Representatives are working on an amendment to include school nurses in a bill to raise Iowa teachers’ salaries — a move supporters laud as they cite families’ heavy reliance on school nurses.

“I would love to see nurses compensated along the same line as teachers,” said K.C. Williams, community health nurse with the Fort Dodge Community School District.

The bill proposes an investment of $35 million into teacher pay next year and more than $40 million the following year, according to the Associated Press.

The current version of the bill, Senate File 277, does not include nurses among the recipients of those additional dollars. But the Senate will most likely adopt an amendment from the House later this week, according to Sen. Daryl Beall, D-Fort Dodge.

“By the time it goes to the governor, I’m 99 percent sure it will be there,” said Beall, a member of the Education Committee, in a telephone interview Monday evening.

Starting salaries are the same for nurses and teachers in the Fort Dodge district, but the progression of nurses’ salaries in the district falls behind that of teachers. Williams said that nurses, for instance, are not rewarded for advanced degrees in the same way that teachers are.

In arguing for the importance of including nurses in the bill, State House Speaker Pat Murphy told the Associated Press that many students rely heavily on the health care administered by school nurses.

“For a lot of kids, this is the health care they will receive, the school nurse,” said Murphy, D-Dubuque, in a published report.

Local health officials contended that school nurses provide key diagnostic services for students, as well as assistance in getting children into the care of physicians.

“A lot of parents don’t know that their children have vision deficits until they get a note saying, ‘Your child didn’t pass the vision screening,’” said Deb Shelton, an Area Education Association representative and special education consultant.

For some families, nurses play a crucial role in setting up appointments and providing transportation, according to Juli Springer, the nurse for Cooper Elementary School.

“Some of our parents were special education students themselves,” added Springer. “It’s just hard for them to know some of the things that for other parents are common sense.”

Cooper is the school, Springer said, that hosts the district’s most medically fragile students. Springer said 60 percent of the students who attend have an illness or health care need.

Williams said the absence of adequate health insurance also places a strain on some families. Eleven percent of students in the district, she said, do not have health insurance.

Williams said government-funded insurance programs — Hawk-I insurance and Title 19 — provide strong coverage for the families who qualify. The problem, she said, arises when parents need to collect their income records for the application.

‘‘Some (parents) work for cash, some work for a month and they’re unemployed,’’ said Williams, who noted that shifting residency on the part of children can also make completing applications difficult.

Williams mentioned another group of parents for whom insurance provides only limited help.

‘‘For the middle-class family with both parents working, they’re carrying insurance with a high deductible and there are no resources to take care of them,’’ she said.

Williams said 36 percent of the district’s students carry private insurance, with 53 percent participating in either Hawk-I or Title 19.

Springer said the services she provides at Cooper Elementary include diabetic care, tube feedings, treatment for severe asthma seizures and allergy treatment. She said she had eight ‘‘EpiPens’’ to inject epinephrine into students who might experience allergic reactions. She said she also helped students use insulin pumps.

Shelton said some of these treatments, such as the EpiPens, were far less common about five years ago.

United Iowa Senate sets sights on significant health care change

2007-04-03T09:10:00.000-05:00

DES MOINES – The Iowa Senate voted Tuesday to create an “Interim Commission on Affordable Health Care for Small Businesses and Families” to make Iowa’s health care system more affordable. The ambitious proposal was approved by a near-unanimous vote of 48 to 2.

“When this commission reports back to the legislature next year, we will have a pathway to a new health care system with lower premiums, improved access and a much more comprehensive health care for all Iowans,” said Senator Jack Hatch of Des Moines, the floor manager of Senate File 573.

The impetus behind the legislation is the fact that Iowa health care premiums are growing at rates double or triple the cost of living. Iowa small businesses and families are increasingly unable to afford health insurance. Currently, 9 percent of Iowans, including 40 to 50 thousand children are completely without health insurance.

The commission, which was developed in a bipartisan effort, will be composed of 10 legislators and representatives from the insurance industry, medical providers, small businesses and individual consumers.

“The commission’s job is to build a consensus that will result in significant progress,” said Tom Rielly of Oskaloosa, an independent insurance agent. “It won’t be easy but the problems we face are too great to just keep on doing as we’ve been doing. Bold, innovative thinking is what’s needed to solve these problems and help move our state forward.”

Senator Steve Warnstadt of Sioux City said: “Our plan for health care reform will combine insurance market reform, individual responsibility and government support.”

The Commission will present its recommendations to the legislature next year.

“This commission is the third leg of this session’s three-legged health care stool,” Hatch said. “First, we raised the tobacco tax to discourage smoking. Second, we used all of the money raised by the tobacco tax to expand access to health care. Third, we’ve created this bipartisan commission help us make major progress on the health care issues that are a drag on our economic growth and a constant worry for too many Iowa families.”

Funding increased for public safety and homeland security

2007-04-03T08:31:00.000-05:00

The Senate Appropriations Committee approved funding for Iowa’s justice system this week to ensure improved public safety and homeland security. The appropriation includes an additional $36.9 million for the Departments of Justice, Corrections, Inspections and Appeals, Public Defense, Public Safety, Iowa Law Enforcement Academy, Board of Parole, and Civil Rights Commission.

This funding increase will offer better safety and security for Iowans by providing more corrections officers to meet the challenges of our ever-growing prison population; additional resources to crack down on sex offenders; increased support for Iowa State Troopers, the Fire Marshal’s office and narcotics enforcement; and funding for Homeland Security and Emergency Management.

Committing Iowa’s resources to these public safety priorities will allow our emergency response personnel to work more effectively for security and protection of all Iowans.

Moving Iowa forward with pro-growth initiatives

2007-04-02T09:43:00.000-05:00

By TOM RIELLY
Iowa Senate District 38

How does the saying go… “Be careful what you wish for?” Well, over the past few weeks that saying couldn’t have been more accurate, as I traveled the state to listen to citizen concerns as chair of the Senate Transportation Committee. This listening tour proved to be one of the best experiences I’ve had since being elected to the Senate.

Over the past few weeks, ranking committee member Sen. Larry Noble, of Ankeny, and I traveled more than 900 miles, as we visited nine communities and talked with more than 500 people about Iowa’s transportation needs. Several told us they believe their communities are not able to compete in the economic development race due to congested and unsafe two-lane highways; others complained of a lack of air, barge and rail access, and some said they wanted to see more trails linking communities and adding to Iowa’s quality of life.

I was surprised and impressed by the level of participation, candid discussions, and overall enthusiasm that Iowans displayed at the meetings. Right now Sen. Noble and I are comparing notes and writing a report on our findings. My initial impressions are that Iowa is in great need of substantial road infrastructure improvements; however, there are few resources to meet those needs. I’m not sure yet how we are going deal with this dilemma, but I am encouraged that we are discussing the problem and working in a bipartisan manner to address it.

Iowa’s transportation system is one crucial aspect of our ability to compete in today’s economy, but there are many others. That is why am working with my colleagues in the Senate on a pro-growth agenda.

Some of the ways we plan to invest in long-range economic development across Iowa include maintaining Iowa’s leadership position in alternative energy. That’s one of the purposes of the $100 million Iowa Power Fund proposed by the Culver/Judge Administration. It will help Iowa businesses expand our renewable energy, alternative fuel, energy efficiency and clean technology industries.

Additionally we must boost our skilled, capable, and knowledgeable work force because it continues to be the number one factor to securing new business investment and expansion opportunities. To accomplish this we plan to increase funding for job training programs at our community colleges. We will also help entrepreneurs by expanding the services of small business development centers into rural areas and by supporting small businesses owned by women, minorities and people with disabilities.

In recent years, Iowa has experienced a “brain drain,” with too many of our educated young adults leaving the state, but this week the Iowa Senate took a step in our bipartisan effort to make Iowa more attractive to young people. New legislation would set up a Generation Iowa Commission to advise and assist in the retention and attraction of young adults in our urban and rural areas. The Commission would be made up of young adults between the ages of 18 and 35 from all areas of the state, multicultural backgrounds and sectors of employment.

Another important aspect of growing our state is enhancing Iowa’s quality of life. Forbes Magazine says Iowa already ranks first in the nation for quality of life, but increased funding for tourism can help make more Americans aware of our state’s strong points. To keep our lead, we should expand recreation opportunities and revitalize our inner cities and small towns through such programs as Main Street Iowa. This will make Iowa more attractive to young people while providing small business opportunities and jobs.

Finally, it is imperative that Iowans have access to affordable health care. This week the Senate unanimously passed two bills that I have worked on since my election that will do just that. Senate File 346 provides for a simple, uniform health insurance application to be used by small businesses. If this legislation becomes law, small business owners will no longer have to fill out multiple, lengthy group insurance applications. This makes it easier for them to shop around for the most affordable health insurance coverage for their employees.

The Senate also passed House File 790 which expands the ability of small businesses to pool through trade associations for purchase of health insurance. This bill also allows for the use of wellness programs, which may help reduce the cost of health insurance. Such programs provide incentives for employees to quit smoking, lose weight and exercise more. By encouraging their employees to be healthier, small businesses may see reductions in their health insurance costs over time.

On one last note I want to let you know that federal aid is available to Iowa’s small businesses hit by recent winter storms if a minimum of five Iowa small businesses owners apply by April 16. If you or someone you know is in need of aid, complete details and an application can be found at http://www.iowahomelandsecurity.org/SBA.asp.

Iowa Senate approves small business health care initiatives

2007-03-30T08:37:00.000-05:00

The Iowa Senate approved legislation on Thursday to make it easier for small businesses to provide their employees with health insurance. The legislation will allow small business to pool their health insurance bargaining power through associations and will increase competition by requiring all insurers to accept a uniform application form, thus making it easier to shop for the best deal.

Senator Tom Rielly, the floor manager

The 2008 Health Care Trust Fund

2007-03-30T08:29:00.000-05:00

Today, Thursday, March 29, the Joint Health and Human Services Appropriations Subcommittee, is expected to approve legislation which will dedicate all of the new state income generated by the tobacco tax to health care in the following ways. (In many cases, the funds listed below are in addition to other state funding).

Addictive Disorders

Substance Abuse Treatment - HF 471 $450,000

Tobacco Use Prevention and Treatment $8,882,254

Healthy Children and Families

Children’s healthy mental development $200,000

Childhood Obesity Prevention $180,000

Child Health Specialty Clinics $473,981

Hawk-I health insurance for kids $8,329,570

Others

Iowa Consortium for Comprehensive Cancer Control $700,000

Tissue Banking - HF 337 $20,000

Cervical or Colon Cancer Screening $200,000

Local Public Health Redesign $75,000

Mental Health Professional Shortage - HF 146 $250,000

Dental Screening - HF 517 $39,000

Other Iowa Collaborative Network Initiatives $2,600,000
to increase the efficiency, quality and effectiveness of
the health care system, including free and rural clinics.

Increasing access to Medicaid for low income Iowans $97,003,096

Mental Health $7,592,099

Total Health Care Trust Fund $127,600,000

Forbes Magazine says Iowa is first in the nation for quality of life

2007-03-29T09:13:00.000-05:00

Forbes Magazine says Iowa is first in the nation for quality of life. Increased funding for tourism can help make more Americans aware of Iowa strong points.

To keep our lead when it comes to quality of life, we should expand recreation and tourism opportunities. This will make Iowa more attractive to young people, while providing small business opportunities and jobs.

In addition, the Senate is looking to increase funding to the Main Street Program, which helps revitalize our inner cities and small towns. Making it easier for small businesses and other employers to shop for the most affordable health care for their employees is also an important quality of life issue.

We intend to stay focused on growing our state’s economy for the benefit of all Iowans.

(Photo credit: traveliowa.com)

Broad health care boost thanks to tobacco tax

2007-03-29T08:40:00.000-05:00

Senator Jack Hatch discussing the House and Senate Health and Human Services Budget Subcommittee's decision to to spend the money raised by the cigarette tax increase to help Iowans quit smoking, to expand health insurance for children, to fund rural health care clinics and for other health related purposes.

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Senate passes legislation to recognize Tribal Court decisions

2007-03-29T08:26:00.000-05:00

The Senate passed legislation this week that provides respect for Indian tribes that interact with Iowans.

The legislation requires Iowa courts to recognize orders and judgments issued by Indian Tribal Courts, essentially providing for enforcement of those judgments.

Iowa law already recognizes certain types of Tribal Court rulings and requires state courts to provide “full faith and credit” to these rulings.

Senate File 430 extends full faith and credit of Tribal Court rulings to a broad range of cases. However, the Tribal Court must also grant full faith and credit to Iowa courts.

Iowans can be proud of this positive step the Senate has taken to recognize, enforce, and respect Tribal Court decisions.

New effort to make Iowa more attractive to young people

2007-03-29T08:23:00.000-05:00

The Iowa Senate took another step this week in our bipartisan effort to keep more of Iowa’s best and brightest in our state.

New legislation would set up a Generation Iowa Commission to advise and assist in the retention and attraction of young adults in our urban and rural areas.

The Commission would be made up of young adults between the ages of 18 and 35 from all areas of the state, multicultural backgrounds, and sectors of employment.

In recent years, Iowa has experienced a “brain drain,” with too many of our educated young adults leaving the state.

The new commission would give periodic reports to the Governor and the Legislature, providing guidelines for employers and the Department of Economic Development to attract and retain young adult employees.

In addition, the reports will include findings on the movement of young adults between the rural and urban areas of Iowa, as well as the rate at which they leave the state.

The House has approved the bill, which now goes to Governor Culver for his consideration.

Iowa Senate approves small business health care initiatives

2007-03-29T08:11:00.000-05:00

Broad health care boost thanks to tobacco tax

DES MOINES – Responding to the concerns of thousands of Iowa small business owners and their employees, the Iowa Senate approved legislation on Thursday that will make it easier for small businesses to provide their employees with health insurance.

The legislation will allow small business to pool their health insurance bargaining power through associations and will increase competition by requiring all insurers to accept a uniform application form, thus making it easier to shop for the best deal.

“Health insurance is a major challenge for small businesses that want to do the right thing for their employees,” said State Senator Tom Rielly of Oskaloosa, the bill’s floor manager. “Today the Senate unanimously approved legislation that provides real help.”

House File 790 allows associations to offer group health care plans and wellness initiatives.

Senate File 364 requires Iowa’s insurance commissioner to develop a uniform health insurance application form and ensures that insurance carriers working with Iowa’s small businesses accept it.

“What we’ve done is increase the bargaining power of small businesses in two ways,” said Rielly. “One, they can choose to work with associations to get a better deal on insurance. Two, if they choose to work with insurers directly, the simplified application form means it will be easier for business owners to compare insurance offers on an apples to apples basis.”

The more than $127 million which will be raised next year by the tobacco tax increase will go entirely to improve the health care of Iowans.

The money, which goes into the Health Care Trust Fund, is dedicated “only for purposes related to health care, substance abuse treatment and prevention and tobacco use prevention, cessation and control.”

Today the House and Senate Health and Human Services Budget Subcommittee approved legislation to spend that money to help Iowans quit smoking, to expand health insurance for children, to fund rural health care clinics and for other health related purposes.

Senator Jack Hatch of Des Moines, Senate chair of the subcommittee, said, “The tobacco tax increase was a bi-partisan vote that helps discourage Iowans from smoking and provides important funding to expand health care to low income Iowans, help people quite smoking, and increase access to affordable health care across Iowa.”

A detailed spreadsheet outlining the funding can be found at www.iowasenatedemocrats.org/media along with video and audio clips about today’s Senate actions on health care.

Election Day voter registration approved in Iowa

2007-03-28T11:42:00.000-05:00

State Senator Staci Appel of Indianola gives her opening address as the Iowa Senate debates, and then approves Election Day voter registration. Citizens can now register to vote on Election Day, a measure which has increased voter turnout in other states.

Senate acts to make voting easier and to increase the integrity of Iowa elections

2007-03-28T09:58:00.000-05:00

Senate Democrats voted to remove one of the biggest barriers preventing some Iowans from voting and to require a voter verifiable paper trail to protect the integrity of Iowa elections.

House File 653 allows voters to register to vote on Election Day at their polling location.

“Iowa law currently ends voter registration 10 days before an election, just about the time voter interest and news coverage of the election begins to peak,” State Senator Staci Appel of Ackworth said. “Today we voted to remove an unnecessary barrier that can frustrate people trying to fulfill their democratic responsibilities.”

In Minnesota and Wisconsin, states that have Election Day registration, the percentage of the population that votes is typically 10 percent higher than in states that do not allow prospective voters to register on Election Day. The proposed law has tough measures to prevent fraud. For example, citizens seeking to register at the polls must provide proof of residence, and sign a written oath testifying that they have not already voted in any other precinct.

The bill, which was earlier approved by the Iowa House, now goes to Governor Culver for his signature.

The Senate also overwhelmingly approved Senate File 369, a measure requiring that all Iowa voting machines produce a paper trail that will be the primary record used in any recounts. The intent of the legislation is to ensure that all Iowa voting machines are in compliance by the 2008 general election.

“Knowing that your vote will be accurately counted is just as important as being able to cast your vote,” Appel said. “Iowa’s reputation for clean elections is worth protecting and this legislation accomplishes that.”

Iowa Governor Chet Culver signs car title reforms

2007-03-27T13:51:00.000-05:00

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Iowa Senate Expands Civil Rights

2007-03-27T11:47:00.000-05:00

Senate Majority Leader Mike Gronstal gives his closing arguments supporting the expansion of Iowa's civil rights laws by adding sexual orientation to Iowa's protected classes which include gender, race, religion, and ethnicity.

Senate approves extension of civil rights to gays, lesbians

2007-03-27T08:20:00.000-05:00

By MIKE GLOVER

Associated Press Writer

DES MOINES, Iowa- The Senate has approved a significant expansion of the state's civil rights laws, adding sexual orientation and gender identity to the list of traits that are protected from discrimination.

The bill passed 32-17 Monday and moves to the House for more debate.

"Today, we have the opportunity to reaffirm that in Iowa job performance is what counts - not what you look like, not what church you attend, not how old you are or who you love," said Senate Majority Leader Michael Gronstal, D-Council Bluffs. "It is difficult to convince a talented young person to come to Iowa or to stay in Iowa when they can be discriminated against because of who they are."

Republicans sought to limit the measure, including pushing a provision that would have specified that the bill would not affect the state's ban on gay marriage. The Legislature nearly 10 years ago approved a measure defining marriage as between a man and a woman.

"We are opening the door to a whole host of unintended consequences," warned Sen. Nancy Boettger, R-Harlan. She sought to exempt schools from the gender identity provisions, saying the measure could allow cross-dressing in schools.

The measure is the second piece of gay rights legislation debated in the Legislature this year. Last month the Legislature approved a bill that adds sexual orientation to the list of characteristics for which students in school can't be harassed. That measure has been signed into law by Gov. Chet Culver.

Gronstal said the public is ready for lawmakers to take the next step. He noted that similar legislation has already been approved in 19 states.

"I'm asking you to approve this expansion of civil rights because we want every American to know they and their families are welcome to live in Iowa, work in Iowa and to help us build a more prosperous Iowa," Gronstal said.

The state's civil rights laws already protect against discrimination based on race, religion, gender and age.

Senator Gronstal's Opening Remarks (1:30):
MP3 WAV Complete release and transcript

Senate approves bill to register beer kegs

2007-03-27T08:18:00.000-05:00

Des Moines, Iowa
Associated Press

A bill headed to Gov. Chet Culver's desk would help authorities crack down on underage drinking by requiring that all kegs of beer sold in the state be registered to track the purchaser.

The Senate approved the bill Monday on a 49-0 vote with virtually no debate. Supporters of the proposal say it will discourage adults from buying kegs for minors.

Law enforcement officials complain that when they break up a party where minors are drinking beer from a keg, it's virtually impossible to trace the purchase and determine which adult bought the beer and gave it to the youngsters. Heavy pressure for the measure came from college-town lawmakers who warned that keg parties involving minors are common.

Under the measure, an identification tag would be affixed to each keg and the purchaser would have to show photo identification when making he purchase.

The retailer would then keep a record of the purchase for up to 90 days, allowing police to easily trace a keg.

Senate debates extending civil rights to gays, lesbians

2007-03-26T17:03:00.000-05:00

By MIKE GLOVER
Associated Press Writer

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) -- The Senate began debate Monday on a bill that would expand the state's civil rights laws to protect gays and lesbians from discrimination.

"Today, we have the opportunity to reaffirm that in Iowa job performance is what counts, not what you look like, not what church you attend, not how old you are or who you love," said Senate Majority Leader Michael Gronstal, D-Council Bluffs. "It is difficult to convince a talented young person to come to Iowa or to stay in Iowa when they can be discriminated against because of who they are."

Gronstal said similar legislation has already been approved in 19 states, and the move is backed by major businesses like Pioneer-Hi-Bred International Inc., Principal Financial Group, Wells Fargo, Rockwell Collins and Alliant Energy Corp.

Those businesses already are competing for workers, and argue that it makes little sense to put limits on their ability to recruit.

The measure is the second piece of gay rights legislation debated in the Legislature this year. The Legislature approved a measure to protect gays and lesbians from bullying.

That measure has already been signed into law by Gov. Chet Culver.

Gronstal said the public is ready for lawmakers to take the next step.

"I'm asking you to approve this expansion of civil rights because we want every American to know they and their families are welcome to live in Iowa, work in Iowa and to help us build a more prosperous Iowa," Gronstal said.

The state's civil rights laws already protect discrimination based on race, religion, gender and age.

© 2007 The Associated Press

Senate Democratic pro-growth agenda and accomplishments for 2007

2007-03-26T11:30:00.000-05:00

A summary of the accomplishments of the Senate Democrats

Providing incentives to create good jobs
• Creating a $100 million Iowa Power Fund to help Iowa businesses expand renewable energy, alternative fuel, and clean technology industries (SF 500, HF 498)
• Providing assistance to targeted small businesses (HF 361)
• Developing more opportunity for wind energy projects (SF 355)
• Increasing the cap on historic tax credits (SF 98, HF 360)
• Expanding Enterprise Zone Distress Criteria (HF 648)
• Reducing commercial property taxes

Building a better workforce and a better quality of life
• Expanding access to high-quality preschool programs (SF 350/HF527)
• Ensuring more student accountability by requiring a Core Curriculum (SSB 1276/HSB 240)
• Increasing teacher pay to 25th in the nation
• Boosting basic school funding by 4 percent
• Increasing funding for job training programs at our community colleges
• Boosting funding for the Main Street program
• Increasing funding for tourism
• Increasing funding for small business centers
• Expanding services to rural areas/businesses for entrepreneurs
• Encouraging competition in broadband communications

Making Health Care more affordable for employers and employees
• Making it easier for small businesses and other employers to shop for the most affordable health care for their employees (SF 346)
• Allowing employers to provide incentives for wellness programs and to pool to negotiate for lower health insurance rates (SF 345)
• Creating a Health Care Commission to develop a comprehensive health insurance plan and to identify cost savings so that more small businesses can provide affordable health insurance to their employees (SF 367)
• Discouraging smoking, especially by young Iowans (SF 128)
Making our communities safer
• Providing greater protections against sexual predators (SSB 1085)
• Establishing a system to automatically inform crime victims and their families and other interested persons about the criminals who caused them harm (SF 70)

Tax hike gives smokers a new reason to quit

2007-03-23T08:42:00.000-05:00

By KRISTIN BUEHNER, Of The Globe Gazette

MASON CITY — The $1 a pack hike in the cigarette tax is convincing many North Iowans that now is the time to quit smoking.

The tax increase, signed into law March 15 by Gov. Chet Culver, took effect Friday.

“I ran out of cigarettes Friday morning and haven’t bought a pack since,” said 40-year-old Jeff Lentz of Plymouth. “I was ready anyway, but the cigarette tax kind of put the final straw on it.”

A smoker since the age of 18, Lentz smoked a pack a day. And, at a reported $5.85 for a generic brand of smokes, that’s a pretty expensive habit.

“People who are going to smoke are going to smoke anyway,” Lentz said. “Those who are going to quit, this is the thing that’s going to take ’em out.”

Lentz, who is quitting cold turkey, said “it’s all mind-set.”

“The worst time is usually in the morning and I just keep moving.”

Since the tax went into effect, more than 150 smokers have contacted Quitline Iowa, up from 70 during the same period a year ago, according to figures provided by the cessation program.

Pam Erickson, a tobacco specialist with the Smoke-Free Families program of North Iowa Community Action Organization, said her office has been fielding a lot more calls since the new tax went into effect.

“We’ve had a huge influx of calls, tons of questions about how to enroll in the program,” Erickson said. “People are calling and saying, ‘I can’t afford to smoke any more. I really need help to stop.’ ”

Carla Miller, coordinator of Smoke-Free Families, said interest in Smoke-Free Families was running high Monday at the Community Action’s Womens, Infants and Children (WIC) Clinic in Clear Lake.

“Everybody we talked to today has concerns about the tobacco tax,” said Miller. “I’m hoping this inspires them to quit to improve their health, as well as the health of those around them.”

A spokeswoman for Mercy Family Health Line said she received three calls Friday, the day the tax increased, about quitting smoking.

“They were wondering about the withdrawal effects, how long does it take and some options for treatment.”

Mason City pharmacist Ryan Corell, manager of Mercy Family Pharmacy-Regency, said prescriptions for medications to help quit smoking are definitely “on the upswing” right now.

“One medication, Chantix, is fairly new,” he said. “It’s really picked up since the first of the year. It’s been pretty promising. People have had pretty good results.”

The medication, which is not a nicotine replacement, makes the body feel like it’s smoking, Corell said. “We’re selling four to five prescriptions a day.”

Other medications available to help quit smoking are Zyban, the nicotine patch and nicotine gum.

Teri Elsbury, health promotions coordinator for the American Cancer Society in Mason City, said she believes some smokers probably stocked up on cigarettes before the new tax was signed into law, but when their supplies are exhausted, may need to consider cessation efforts.

“We have received several inquiries from other counties and organizations about FreshStart,” the American Cancer Society’s smoking cessation program, Elsbury said.

Miller said the interest in quitting smoking created by the new cigarette tax is encouraging.

“We’ve been lobbying several years for it,” she said. “It’s exciting to see that maybe it will make a difference. I’m hoping that it helps reduce teenage smokers.”

Keeping guns away from domestic abusers

2007-03-22T08:36:00.000-05:00

Video interview with Heather Fredrickson, a survivor of domestic abuse

In the past ten years, 155 Iowans have been killed in domestic abuse murders. The victims include 20 children.

Ninety-three of the 155 were killed by a person using a firearm. In many cases, the killer had a gun despite having a history of domestic abuse.

Attorney General Tom Miller is urging the Iowa Legislature to consider banning the possession of firearms by anybody who has been convicted of domestic abuse or is under a domestic abuse restraining order. Miller believes this law will help prevent the use of guns by domestic abusers to terrorize, maim or kill their victims.

Miller’s argument was strengthened by the release of a disturbing video this week at a Statehouse news conference. The video shows a man – who was under a domestic abuse restraining order – terrorizing his ex-wife at gunpoint. Fortunately, she survived unharmed, and he is now serving a life sentence for kidnapping.

Iowa Senate approves new protections for Iowa consumers

2007-03-21T13:39:00.000-05:00

The Iowa Senate voted today to change that by approving legislation to allow individual consumers to go to court on their own behalf when they are victims of fraud.

Iowa is the only state that does not allow individual consumers to go to court when they are the victims of unfair, deceptive, or fraudulent sales practices.

“This legislation will help Iowa consumers who have been defrauded by schemes, scams and other forms of fraud,” said Senator Keith Kreiman of Bloomfield, the bill’s floor manager. “It will also protect legitimate businesses that lose business to fraudulent competitors and deter consumer fraud generally in Iowa.”

Currently, Iowa’s Consumer Fraud Act is enforceable only by the state’s Attorney General. Because of limited resources, the Attorney General’s office is not able to represent all Iowa consumers who may need legal representation.

“Today, we approved legislation to make it possible for victims of consumer fraud to recover their attorney’s fees as well as damages up to three times the amount of actual damages if the fraudulent or deceptive behavior are especially outrageous,” said Kreiman. “I especially want to thank Attorney General Tom Miller for suggesting this legislation to the Senate.”

Senate Leader Mike Gronstal’s prepared opening remarks on Civil Rights Bill

2007-03-21T13:22:00.000-05:00

Senate File 427 is about ensuring more opportunity for all Iowans.

This legislation is designed to ensure that all Iowans can contribute to society.

Specifically, Senate File 427 adds sexual orientation and gender identity to the Iowa Civil Rights Acts.

What does this mean?

It means that we are taking a big step to address the concerns of some of our biggest employers in Iowa, who want more workers, a more diverse workforce, and a more qualified workforce.

According to the Des Moines Business Record, Principal Financial Group Inc., which employs 16,000 people worldwide, 7,600 of them in Greater Des Moines, has policies protecting employees from harassment and discrimination based on their sexual orientation that dates back 16 years.

Earlier this year, the Des Moines-based insurer added gender identity to its non-discrimination policies.

Jim DeVries, Principal's senior vice president of human resources, said gender identity wasn't added at the request of an employee or because an issue had been raised, but because the company likes to be progressive and proactive.

Creating an inclusive atmosphere is "good for employees, good for customers and good for shareholders," DeVries said. "It's smart from a business standpoint, but historically, we do this because we think it's the right thing to do."
At a time when we are facing a workforce shortage in our state, we should be encouraging – NOT discouraging – people from staying in Iowa or moving to Iowa.

In the 21st Century, a healthy vibrant economy must include a diverse workforce. That means we must embrace skilled, talented workers – regardless of their race, gender, religion, disability or sexual orientation.

Some might ask: If some private employers and some of our biggest cities in Iowa have already adopted similar anti-discrimination language, why does the state Legislature need to do anything?

The Iowa Civil Rights Commission may have put it best when they stated:

“We no longer wish to see our children, neighbors, co-workers, nieces, nephews, parishioners or classmates leave Iowa so they can work, prosper, live or go out to eat. Our friends who are gay or lesbian know the fear and pain of hurtful remarks, harassment, attacks, loss of jobs or housing simply because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Only nine cities – Ames, Bettendorf, Burlington, Cedar Rapids, Clinton, Davenport, Decorah, Des Moines, Dubuque and Iowa City – currently prohibit discrimination in employment, housing, credit, education and public accommodations based on sexual orientation. Iowans throughout the state deserve equal protection under the law.”

Calls to Quitline Iowa double after state boosts cigarette tax

2007-03-21T08:14:00.000-05:00

By TODD DVORAK, Associated Press Writer
IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) -- Cancer researchers predict 6,400 Iowans will die from the disease this year, while another 15,700 others will be diagnosed with some form of cancer, according to a report released Wednesday.

Researchers also reported that the tobacco tax increase signed into law earlier this month by Gov. Chet Culver has more than doubled smokers' desire to quit the habit.

Since the tax went into effect last week, raising prices by $1 per pack, more than 150 smokers have contacted Quitline Iowa, up from 70 during the same period a year ago, according to figures provided by the cessation program.

"This legislation could do more for the prevention of cancer than any other passed by the Legislature the last five years," said Dr. John Lowe, a smoking researcher at the University of Iowa's Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center.

The 2007 Cancer in Iowa report estimates that more men than women will die from cancer and be diagnosed with the disease this year.

Breast, lung and colon and rectum will likely remain the top three causes of cancer related deaths and new cases for women in 2007.

For men, the report predicts that prostate, lung and colon and rectum will be the most common cause of cancer deaths and new cases. Projections for men and women track trends of previous years and lung cancer remains the leading killer in both genders, accounting for three of every 10 deaths, figures show.

Researchers also say more lives are being saved from cancer deaths in the state, estimated at 3,066 since 1997. That projection is based on a formula using mortality rates in Iowa from 1994-96, which serves as baseline data, and mortality rates from 2003-05, the most recent years such data is available.

"It's a comparison of the number of deaths we have with what we thought we'd have given the data of 1994 through 1996," said Dr. Charles Lynch, director of state Health Registry of Iowa.

The most significant improvement in mortality rates are tied to prostate cancer, down 28 percent and female breast cancer, down 24 percent.

The decline in lung cancer deaths is just 2 percent, though Lynch said given its prevalence, estimates show the slight decline accounts for 982 lives saved in men. However, he said 323 more women have died from lung cancer than expected.

"This is because of the difference in incidents rates for lung cancer, which are still increasing in women, while declining in men," Lynch said.

This is my Iowa. My environment.

2007-03-20T10:55:00.000-05:00

Senator Daryl Beall of Fort Dodge added his signature to the "This is my Iowa. My Environment." poster provided by the Iowa Soybean Association to encourage protection of Iowa's land, air, and water quality through renewable energy initiatives. From left, Sen. Beall and board directors of the Iowa Soybean Association Jim Andrew of Jefferson and A. J. Blair of Dayton. (Credit: Soheila Yalpani)

Democrats vote to protect Iowa families

2007-03-19T11:35:00.000-05:00

“I’m proud of our efforts today to stand up to the special interests and to protect consumers.”

Today, the Iowa Senate approve new consumer protections for Iowa families.

The two pieces of legislation make it easier and safer to take out a home loan and reduce the interest rate on car title loans from more than 250 percent to a maximum of 21 percent.

“For too long, Iowa families have been left to fend for themselves against sophisticated predatory lenders who use every trick in the book to separate them from their money, their cars, and even their homes,” said Senator Bolkcom, a main supporter of the bill. “Today we’ve approved reasonable consumer protections, most of which are already available to the residents of other states. Now Iowans will benefit from increased consumer protections and Iowa businesses will be less likely to suffer from unfair competition by the bad actors in these industries.”

The legislation approved by the Senate today included:

Home Loan Reforms:
Senate File 541 would reform the subprime lending market by preventing lenders from “flipping” consumers by refinancing their loan without a net benefit to the consumer; advertising “teaser” loans at terms that are not available to a reasonable number of qualified applicants and which quickly rise to higher rates; lying about a consumer’s income or credit rating to qualify the consumer for a loan; and engage in other predatory practices.

Car Title Reforms
House File 5 reduces the maximum amount of interest that can be charged by car title loan lenders from more than 250 percent to 21 percent. The 21 percent interest is the same as banks and credit unions are currently allowed to charge for loans secured by a car.

Fiscally responsible state budget moving ahead, meeting Iowa’s needs

2007-03-19T10:43:00.000-05:00

Leaders of the Iowa House and Senate released more details this week of a joint budget plan that includes $25 million in commercial property tax relief.

We firmly intend to keep improving Iowa’s financial standing. That’s why our plan ensures that the state budget will be balanced, comply with Iowa’s expenditure-limitation law, and fully fund the state’s Cash Reserve Fund.

Legislation is also moving forward to provide increases for our schools at all levels, from pre-school to higher education. In addition, we are working on key initiatives to expand access to affordable health care.

A large group of legislators continues to meet and make progress on a major initiative on renewable energy. This effort – commonly referred to as Iowa’s Power Fund – will enhance our efforts to create good-paying jobs and make Iowa more energy independent.

I am especially proud that this budget gets serious about repaying funds borrowed in previous years. For example, we will repay half of the $300 million recent Legislatures have borrowed from the Senior Living Trust Fund. At the same time, Iowa’s rainy day funds will grow to $578 million, the largest amount ever in the state savings account.

With your encouragement and ideas, I’m working to refocus state government to better meet the needs of our communities and put the state in a significantly better financial position than it has been years.

Iowa Senate Passes Car Title Reform

2007-03-19T08:49:00.000-05:00

Opening address by Senator Joe Bolkcom of Iowa City when the Iowa Senate voted to reform the state's car title loan industry by reducing the allowable interest rate from more than 250% to 21% on Monday, March 19, 2007.

Better partnership needed to ensure health care for Iowa children

2007-03-16T10:41:00.000-05:00

There is a bipartisan effort in the Legislature this year to increase the number of Iowa children covered by health insurance and to improve the quality of care they receive.

It is critical, however, that the federal government remains a good partner in this effort. The current federal program is underfunded – Iowa is one of at least 14 states looking at a federal funding shortfall this year.

Congress faces decisions about whether and how to renew the State Child Health Insurance Program (called hawk-i in Iowa), which provides health insurance coverage to more than 32,000 Iowa children in low-income families.

Along with Medicaid, hawk-i provides primary and preventive health services to three out of every ten Iowa children. Despite rising health care costs and the falling number of employer health insurance programs, hawk-i has helped many Iowa children receive the health care they need.

Comprehensive health services for children are very cost effective. We should keep doing all we can to identify and treat health and development issues early, before they become chronic conditions.

Last year, the Legislature increased funding for hawk-i. I am hopeful that we can do more this year and that Congress will do its share to provide quality, affordable health care to more Iowa children.

Culver approves increased cigarette tax

2007-03-15T12:03:00.000-05:00

On Thursday, Governor Chet Culver signed an anti-tobacco measure that will improve the health of Iowans. The American Lung Association estimates that 36,000 Iowa young people will never become addicted to tobacco and more than 20,000 Iowa adults will quit smoking, thanks to the dollar a pack increase in cigarette taxes. (Photo: Soheila Yalpani)

Irish Parlimentarian honored in Senate

2007-03-14T12:56:00.000-05:00

Tony Dempsey, a member of the Irish Parliament, received a warm welcome from the President of the Senate, Jack Kibbie of Emmetsburg. Dempsey was honored in the Iowa Senate on Saint Patrick’s Day. Dempsey lauded the shared values and aspirations of Ireland and the United States and spoke of the contributions Irish immigrants have made to the U.S. A flag was flown over the Statehouse in his honor. Dempsey is the Government Governor for the Join Oireachtas Committee for Foreign Affairs. From left, Senator Kibbie, Dempsey, and Senator Daryl Beall.

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Funding advances for agriculture and natural resources programs

2007-03-14T11:31:00.000-05:00

The Senate Appropriations Committee approved legislation this week to increase funding for agriculture and natural resources programs for the state fiscal year beginning on July 1, 2007.

In addition to funding state operations and regulatory programs, several areas will see much needed funding increases. They include additional dollars for the operation of Iowa’s first destination park at Honey Creek; an additional $1 million for habitat development by DNR’s Fish and Wildlife Division; and, additional funding for soil conservation and water quality efforts.

Helping brothers and sisters in Iowa foster care

2007-03-13T14:12:00.000-05:00

Senator Keith Kreiman advocates for the rights of siblings in foster care. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lYnKeI1wFEE

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Bipartisan Senate votes to strengthen grandparents’ rights, foster sibling relationships

2007-03-13T11:39:00.000-05:00

Senator Amanda Ragan of Mason City addresses a Statehouse news conference attended by more than 50 children in foster care.

Grandparents will have more visitation rights and siblings in foster care will have closer relationships if legislation approved Tuesday morning by a unanimous Iowa Senate becomes law.

A unanimous Iowa Senate majority on Tuesday voted to strengthen the rights of grandparents and to support the sibling relationships of children in Iowa’s foster care system.

File 264 gives all grandparents the right to petition a court for visitation with their grandchildren and great-grand children.

Senate File 480 requires the state to help children in the foster care system to visit and maintain relationships with their siblings or state the reason why such visits would not be in the best interests of the child.

Foster child Jewel Barnes of Des Moines spoke at the news conference. She described how she was separated from her two brothers when her mother’s parental rights were terminated.

“I didn’t get to see them for almost three years,” said Barnes. “That was a big gap for me because they meant so much to me. I now have a good relationship with their adoptive parents and can visit them whenever I want.”

Barnes is a member of a group of more than 50 foster children who were at the Iowa Statehouse on Tuesday morning who watched the legislation pass the Senate. They are members of Elevate, a group of young people who seek to inspire others to new levels of understanding and compassion for the needs of foster care and adoptive teens by sharing their personal stories of hope. (http://elevate2inspire.com/)

Audio: State Senator Keith Kreiman on helping foster siblings stay in touch

(1:08) MP3 WAV TRANSCRIPT

Dems chalk up several victories in first months

2007-03-11T11:31:00.000-05:00

By CHARLOTTE EBY; Waterloo Courier Des Moines Bureau Democrats in the Iowa Legislature have ushered in a new progressive era in the state in just two months of their new majority.

After the first major deadline passed last week, lawmakers could point to a long list of accomplishments they promised voters on the campaign trail.

Most of them are issues that sat on the shelf when Republicans ruled the Legislature: raising Iowa's minimum wage, an anti-bullying measure to protect gay and lesbian students, and easing stem-cell research restrictions.

The Iowa Senate also moved forward with a $1 per pack cigarette tax; the Iowa House could take up the issue as early as this week. The Senate has approved money to bring teacher salaries up to the national average and the House is expected to do the same.

Measures that would allow local governments to set new public smoking restrictions also have cleared committees in both the House and Senate. And Democrats in both chambers are pushing bills that would work to create energy efficiencies and develop sources of alternative fuels.

Sen. Bill Dotzler, D-Waterloo, said the Democratic initiatives could lead to a renaissance in Iowa with new technology jobs, renewable energy and efforts to clean up the state's lakes and rivers. Dotzler has been a state leader in trying to find ways to attract skilled workers to Iowa. He believes that means making the state an inviting place to live.

He argues the state needs to think about ways to bring in creative people to fill the jobs of the future in Iowa. When stodgy lawmakers didn't get it, Dotzler kept pushing the idea of making Iowa a fun place through cultural events, the arts and recreational opportunities."

There's a lot of exciting things going down, and I think that this session's going to go down as a landmark legislative session for innovation," Dotzler said.

Republicans hope voters see the session as one that went too far. They'll point to one issue Democrats never took to the voters: fair share. Their controversial measure would force non-union members to pay fees for union services such as collective bargaining negotiations.

Democrats caved to pressure and jettisoned the idea of extending fair share to the private sector. The measure in consideration now only would apply to public sector employees.

Discouraging smoking and improving health care

2007-03-08T11:48:00.000-06:00

On Thursday, March 8, the Iowa Senate voted 34 to 14 to discourage smoking—especially by young people—and to expand access to affordable health care by increasing Iowa’s cigarette tax by one dollar per pack.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lGzROza9pbk

It is estimated that 36,000 Iowa young people will never become addicted to tobacco thanks to this tax and more than 20,000 adults will quit. This vote will make Iowa a healthier, more family friendly place to live.

Senate File 128 increases Iowa’s tax on cigarettes by one dollar a pack, making the total tax $1.36 a pack, up from 36 cents a pack, one of the lowest in the country. This is the first increase in 16 years. The additional state revenue will be used to expand access to affordable health care, including substance abuse treatment and helping smokers kick the habit.

Even with this increase, the total amount raised by Iowa’s cigarette tax will still be far less than the estimated $301 million Iowa taxpayers spend each year on Medicaid costs due to smoking related illnesses and disease. The real benefits to the state, communities, and families will come from discouraging smoking by young people and adults.

According to the American Cancer Society, 20 percent of Iowa high school students and 20 percent of Iowa adults smoke. Public opinion polls have found that more than 70 percent of Iowans favor increasing taxes on cigarettes, including more than half of smokers.

AUDIO: Opening Statement: Senator Matt McCoy dedicates debate to Iowa's Youth.
0:56 MP3 WAV

Safe Schools Initiative is signed into law

2007-03-06T12:23:00.000-06:00

Governor Chet Culver signed the “Safe Schools Initiative” into law at a ceremonial bill-signing at Valley High School on Monday. West Des Moines Superintendent, Dr. Tom Narak (center), applauded the bill, which requires schools to establish anti-harassment and anti-bullying policies.

He emphasized the importance of upholding the safety and well-being of children in schools. The bill protects all students, including those who have historically been targeted for bullying and harassment. Dr. Narak is the first recipient of the Kathy Collins Rielly Award for Courage.

Senator Appel of Ackworth (left) and Senator Matt McCoy of Des Moines, strong supporters of the Safe Schools initiative, attended the signing. “A safe and civil environment is necessary for students to do their best,” McCoy said.

Senate votes to improve student achievement

2007-03-05T12:19:00.000-06:00

Accountability measures will guide efforts

A bipartisan Senate majority approved legislation that will keep our commitment to Iowa’s students by continuing an aggressive plan to increase teacher quality across our state.

The initiative approved by the Senate will bring the average pay of Iowa teachers to 25th in the nation by the 2009-2010 school year.

The Teacher Quality Initiative will boost efforts to raise teacher pay to attract and retain the best and brightest teachers in the country.

The average pay of Iowa teachers currently ranks 40th out of the 50 states. In recent years, student teachers at Iowa’s teaching colleges have been heavily recruited by other states seeking to improve their school systems. Currently, Iowa teachers make $3,795 less than the average teacher in the nation.

Under the new legislation, the Legislature will increase annual spending on local schools by $70 million in the 2007-2008 school year and by $75 million in the year after. To improve teacher quality and increase teacher salaries to the national average by 2009, the Legislature will spend a total of $174 million in the 2007-2008 school year and a total of $249 million in the next year.

When added to the $108 million increase in basic state aid to local schools which was approved last month, Iowa’s students are on track to benefit from the largest increase in state funds for education in more than a decade.

Another key provision of the new initiative is funding for as many as 30 pilot projects in the next two years to study the most effective way to pay teachers who increase their students’ achievement. The bill also makes innovative changes in the delivery of continuing education for Iowa teachers to ensure more accountability by connecting these activities to such district goals as raising student achievement.

NYT: Democrats in State Capitols Push Antiwar Resolutions

2007-02-19T14:15:00.000-06:00

“The end of this war has to start sometime and somewhere,” the president of the Iowa Senate, John P. Kibbie, a Democrat, said Thursday. “And stopping the expansion of these troops needs to happen now.”

February 16, 2007
New York Times: Democrats in State Capitols Push Antiwar Resolutions
By JENNIFER STEINHAUER

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 15 — Frustrated by the inability of Democrats in Congress to pass a resolution opposing President Bush’s policies in Iraq, state legislators across the country, led by Democrats and under pressure from liberal advocacy groups, are pushing forward with their own resolutions.

Resolutions have passed in chambers of three legislatures, in California, Iowa and Vermont. The Maryland General Assembly sent a letter to its Congressional delegation, signed by a majority of the State Senate and close to a majority of the House, urging opposition to the increase in troops in Iraq.

Letters or resolutions are being drafted in at least 19 other states. The goal is to embarrass Congress into passing its own resolution and to provide cover for Democrats and Republicans looking for concrete evidence back home that anti-Iraq resolutions enjoy popular support.

“The end of this war has to start sometime and somewhere,” the president of the Iowa Senate, John P. Kibbie, a Democrat, said Thursday. “And stopping the expansion of these troops needs to happen now.” LINK

Senate opposes escalation in Iraq

2007-02-19T13:58:00.000-06:00

On Thursday, February 15, the Iowa Senate approved, on a voice vote, a resolution in opposition to President Bush's surge in Iraq. Iowa is the third state in the nation to pass such a resolution. Text of Senate Resolution 15 Text of Senate President Jack Kibbie's Prepared Remarks (MP3 of his remarks)

Senator Kibbie's opening statement

Fathers join Culver at stem cell news conf.

2007-02-14T12:33:00.000-06:00

On Wednesday, 14, 2007, the Iowa Senate approved legislation allowing stem cell treatments and research in Iowa. Governor Chet Culver held a press conference on the same subject later that day with two fathers whose children could benefit from stem cell research.

AUDIO

Governor Culver (6:31): MP3

Quent Boykin, father of a child who could benefit from stem cell research (6:27): MP3

Rick Langel, father of a child who could benefit from stem cell research (3:24): MP3

Governor praises the Senate's approval of Stem Cell Bill

2007-02-14T12:28:00.000-06:00

On Wednesday, 14, 2007, the Iowa Senate approved legislation allowing stem cell treatments and research in Iowa. Governor Chet Culver held a press conference on the same subject later that day.

News release on Senate Passage

Opening statement by Senator Joe Bolkcom

Governor Culver (6:31):
MP3
WAV
Quent Boykin, father of a child who could benefit from stem cell research (6:27):
MP3
WAV
Rick Langel, father of a child who could benefit from stem cell research (3:24):
MP3
WAV

Democrats propose reforms to lending market

2007-02-13T13:34:00.000-06:00

Audio: A 1:09 clip from Tuesday, 13, 2007 with Iowa Attorney General Tom Miller and State Senator Joe Bolkcom on Miller's proposed reforms for Iowa's subprime home mortgage lending market.

Attorney General Miller's Statement and web site
Senator Joe Bolkcom Statement Miller & Bolkcom (1:09): MP3 WAV TRANSCRIPT
Miller only (0:53): MP3 WAV
Bolkcom only (0:17): MP3 WAV
Complete news conference (21 minutes and 10 megabytes in size): MP3

Pharmacy students visit Capitol

2007-02-13T11:57:00.000-06:00

Pharmacy students converged on the Iowa Statehouse Tuesday, offering health care checkups and talking with legislators about health care in Iowa and the high cost of tuititon. Xin Wang gave Senator Amanda Ragan a complimentary blood pressure screening. Wang will graduate when she completes Drake University’s six year pharmacy program.

Protecting homebuyers from predatory mortgages

2007-02-13T10:37:00.000-06:00

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Senator Schmitz greets World Food Prize Intern

2007-01-29T12:01:00.000-06:00

Senator Becky Schmitz of Fairfield met with her constituent, Courtney Taglauer, at the Capitol on Monday following a Senate Resolution honoring Norman Borlaug and the World Food Prize. Taglauer, a World Food Prize intern, discussed her summer at the China Agricultural University in Beijing, where she researched the licorice plant.

C-SPAN Bus Visits Capitol

2007-01-23T13:45:00.000-06:00

Senator Jeff Danielson of Waterloo and his clerk Elyse Beenken took a tour of the C-SPAN Campaign 2008 Bus. The bus is dedicated to following the action in the upcoming and hotly competitive presidential election. It stopped at the capitol on as part of its tour across the nation travelling to political events and battleground states, touring state capitols, visiting schools, and meeting with politicians, journalists, and voters. The 45-foot long bus features a production studio.

President Jack Kibbie's Opening Day Address

2007-01-08T11:35:00.000-06:00

I would like to welcome back all returning members and staff to the 2007 session of the 82nd General Assembly and extend a special welcome to the seven new members who today take their place as Senators in this special institution. You have been invested as lawmakers and will have an important role in shaping Iowa’s future.

The November election also saw the voters, for the first time in 42 years, provide Democratic leadership in the Governor’s Office, the House of Representatives and the Senate. I am confident we are ready to lead this state in a responsible, common sense manner that will justify the voter’s confidence in us.
I want to thank my Democratic colleagues for placing their trust in me as President of the Senate. I pledge to be fair to all members during our debates and assure that my office is open to both Democrats and Republicans for any issues that may arise.
We face many challenges as we begin this new General Assembly. While Democrats are the majority, it is my hope that much of what we do can be in a bipartisan manner. The minority has an important role to play and I know our Republican colleagues have good ideas onlegislation that comes before us and am confident that committee chairs will seek the full participation of all the members.
In my remarks last year I said: “Another part of our economic development efforts should be towards rewarding those Iowans who work hard and play by the rules. They arethe unsung Iowans who go to work at low wage jobs every day. They are the workers employers depend upon and they answer the call. They raise our children, support their communities, and help their neighbors”. Often during that session Senator Courtney urged us to remember these workers and support them by raising the minimum wage. We didn’t listen last year, but early this session we will raise the minimum wage.
We have major challenges in education at all levels. While it is welcome news that our teacher compensation went from 42nd to 40th, that’s not good enough. We can do better.
It was just reported that tuition at Iowa’s public universities will rise again this year. We all ought to be concerned that ever increasing tuition puts great stress on middle income families and that we cannot price their children out of a college education. More than ever we need the best trained students to fill the 200,000 jobs that need to be filled in the next five to ten years which require specialized skills.
Our progress as a state and our economic success depends on a strong educational system top to bottom. Our K-12 system, community colleges, Regents institutions and private colleges are partners in providing the education Iowans need to move our state forward and keep young Iowans at home.
Over the last eight years, the Legislature and Governor Vilsack have adopted initiatives for cleaner air and water; Vision Iowa; the Iowa Values Fund; and Cultural and Tourism programs. These initiatives have proved their value and while we may want to providesome enhancements, I see no need to re-invent these important efforts to make Iowa better place in which to live and work.
We will spend considerable time looking at our property tax system. Most agree it is in need of repair. We need to be creative and innovative and look at ways to address current inequities especially in the way we tax commercial property.
Our health care system is an important component of economic security for our families. Many states have taken bold steps to address how best to provide affordable coverage for those who have health insurance and new initiatives to provide coverage for the uninsured. I am confident we can work together this year and next to reduce the number of Iowans without health insurance.
As a farmer all of my life, I would be remiss if I did not mention the continued importance of agriculture in Iowa’s future. For many years feed grains and livestock defined agriculture. With the broadened definition of agriculture, exciting opportunities exist for those in rural Iowa. Agriculture policy should continue to be one of the cornerstones of any discussion of a growing economy.
With the diversity in our agriculturaleconomy there are many opportunities to expand the agricultural community. We should support additional incentives for beginning farmers with ownership, opportunity, prosperity, environmental stewardship and robust
competition as our goals. Each new owner-operator of a farm provides rural Iowa with a newfamily, a growing community, and a vibrant economic presence.
I want to take a moment to talk about what consider a key issue in Iowa’s economic future and that is alternative and renewable fuels.
I still believe that every gallon of gasoline in Iowa should contain ethanol. It is good for our economy. It is good for our farmers. It helpsus become more energy independent. According to the Legislative Services Agency as of January, 2006, the percentage of all gasoline used on our highways that contained ethanol was only 76%. If every gallon of gasoline contained ethanol, it would mean more profit in the pockets of Iowa Farmers.
In November, I attended a gathering at Iowa State University which was titled, “A Call To Action Summit: Ensuring Iowa’s Leadership in the Bioeconomy”. It was an outstanding event about the future and the unlimited potential of our state’s role in economic and food security issues. The handout we received is a greatsummary of where we are at and where we need to go. If you haven’t seen it stop in my office and we will get you a copy.
The message from this conference is clear. We need a comprehensive, statewide energy policy to oversee the development and direction of our bioeconomy. Our transportation infrastructure to support this economy requires planning for roads, rails, pipelines, and other infrastructure.

Iowa's New Democratic State Senators

2006-12-26T12:41:00.000-06:00

CAPTION (Des Moines) The new leadership of the Iowa Senate and the winning candidates who gave Democrats control of the Senate spoke Sunday with reporters at the Statehouse.

Senate Democrats had gathered to elect their leaders and to discuss plans to bring Iowa positive change on education, the economy and health care. On Election Day, Iowa voters decisively broke the 25-25 tie in the Senate by electing five new Democratic Senators, giving Democrats a 30-20 majority and the Senate leadership for the first time since 1996. From left to right, Senator-elect Becky Schmitz of Fairfield, Senator-elect Bill Heckroth of Waverly, Senate Majority Leader Mike Gronstal of Council Bluffs, Senator-elect Staci Appel of Ackworth, Senator-elect Rich Olive of Story City, Senate President Jack Kibbie of Emmetsburg, and Senator-elect Rob Hogg of Cedar Rapids.

NYT: Seductively Easy, Payday Loans Often Snowball

2006-12-26T12:00:00.000-06:00

"While such lending is effectively banned in 11 states, including New York, through usury or other laws, it is flourishing in 39 others. The practice is unusually rampant and unregulated in New Mexico, where it has become a contentious political issue. The Center for Responsible Lending, a private consumer group, calculates that nationally payday loans totaled at least $28 billion in 2005, doubling in five years."

Read the complete article at:

http://select.nytimes.com/gst/abstract.html?res=F60A14F93A550C708EDDAB0994DE404482

First step consumer protection against predatory lending

2006-12-22T12:06:00.000-06:00

Leaders from the Iowa Senate and House joined Iowa Attorney General Tom Miller today in calling for fundamental reform of the car title loan industry to protect Iowa consumers.

“Last year, the reason we failed to clean up the car title industry was the Republican House leadership refused to let the bill come to the floor,” Kevin McCarthy, House Majority Leader said. “This year, we will vote on car title reforms and I expect it to pass the House with the same large bipartisan majority that approved it in the Senate. This is a first step for a new Iowa Legislature that takes consumer protection seriously.”

“The key test of any car title legislation is the interest rate. The Iowa Senate has repeatedly, with overwhelming bipartisan support, approved legislation which would cap t the interest rate at no higher than 21 percent,” said Senator Roger Stewart of Preston, who sponsored the bill last year in the Iowa Senate. “This rate is still high for a loan that is secured by your car but it is far better than the predatory, outrageous rates of 264 percent or more. Any legislation that claims to reform this industry must address the interest rate problem.”

“The one indicator of predatory lending that everybody agrees on is making a loan without regard to ability to pay,” Attorney General Miller said. “The result is that most consumers are on the ‘down’ escalator as soon as they sign car-title loan papers. It’s very risky to consumers, but the car-title loan company – with the vehicle as collateral – is risking little or nothing.”

“Elections have consequences and I’m hoping that one consequence of November’s election is that Iowans will be less likely to be victimized by outrageous interest rates and fees,” Senate Assistant Majority Leader Joe Bolkcom of Iowa City said. “Reforming car title loans should be the first step to helping consumers have confidence that financial transactions in Iowa are based on reasonable fees and interest rates.”

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Fiscally responsible Legislature will keep its commitments

2006-12-22T12:03:00.000-06:00

Statement by Senate Leader Mike Gronstal on Revenue Estimating

“Today’s revised estimate of state revenue for the next fiscal year will help guide our efforts to develop a balanced budget that meets Iowa’s priorities.

“The new state revenue has been created by continued growth in the Iowa economy, something that the Democratic majority in the Senate will work to continue.

“It will be important to keep the bipartisan commitments that the Legislature has made in recent years to Iowa’s students, families and communities. Built-in and anticipated increases mean that balancing next year’s budget will be a real challenge.

“We are committed to working in a bipartisan manner to keep our commitments in such key areas as health care, education, job-creation and tax relief.

“The best way to be in the position to keep those promises is to adopt a fiscally responsible approach, avoid financial shell games, and comply with the state’s balanced budget law.”

Senate committee chairs and members announced

2006-12-15T13:49:00.000-06:00

Des Moines) The names of the men and women who will chair the committees of the next session of the Iowa Senate were released today.

The 30 members of the new Democratic majority of Senate were assigned by Senate Majority Leader Mike Gronstal (Council Bluffs), who made his decisions in consultation with Senate President Jack Kibbie and the other members of the Senate majority. “We have an exceptionally talented and diverse group of Senators, which made it possible for me to assign a strong chair for each committee,” Gronstal said. “It is now their job as committee chairs to work with their colleagues, regardless of party, to find common-ground solutions to help Iowans and their families.” Under the Senate’s rules, committee chairs organize the work of their committees. All bills passed by the Senate must first pass through the committee process. “In recent years, the Legislature has relied too much on closed-door decisions made by a handful of senators,” President Kibbie said. “Committees are again going to be an important part of the Senate process. I expect some vigorous debate in committee and I expect the result will be good ideas that move Iowa forward by improving education, developing the bio-economy, creating new jobs, and expanding access to affordable health care.”(Below is a list of committee and their chairs and vice-chairs. A complete list of committee assignments can be found at www.iowasenatedemocrats.org.

STANDING COMMITTEES
Agriculture: Senator Gene Fraise, chair; Senator Tom Rielly, Vice-Chair

Appropriations: Senator Bob Dvorsky, Chair; Senator Matt McCoy, Vice-Chair

Labor & Business Relations: Senator Dick Dearden, Chair; Senator Tom Courtney, Vice-Chair

Commerce: Senator Steve Warnstadt, Chair; Senator Bill Heckroth, Vice-Chair

Economic Growth: Senator Roger Stewart, Chair; Senator Rich Olive, Vice-Chair

Education: Senator Brian Schoenjahn, Chair; Senator Staci Appel, Vice-Chair

Ethics: President Jack Kibbie, Co-Chair

Human Resources: Senator Amanda Ragan, Chair; Senator Becky Schmitz, Vice-Chair

Judiciary: Senator Keith Kreiman, Chair; Senator Rob Hogg, Vice-Chair

Local Government: Senator Herman Quirmbach, Chair; Senator Daryl Beall, Vice-Chair

Natural Resources & Environment: Senator Dennis Black, Chair; Senator Tom Hancock, Vice-Chair

Rules & Administration: Senate Leader Mike Gronstal, Chair; President Jack Kibbie, Vice-Chair

State Government: Senator Mike Connolly, Chair; Senator Wally Horn, Vice-Chair

Transportation: Senator Tom Rielly, Chair; Senator Jeff Danielson, Vice-Chair

Ways & Means: Senator Joe Bolkcom, Chair; Senator Matt McCoy, Vice-Chair

Veterans Affairs: Senator Daryl Beall, Chair; Senator Steve Warnstadt, Vice-Chair

APPROPRIATIONS SUBCOMMITTEES

Administration & Regulation: Senator Jeff Danielson, Chair; Senator Staci Appel, Vice-Chair

Agriculture & Natural Resources: Senator Joe Seng, Chair; Senator Brian Schoenjahn, Vice-Chair

Economic Development: Senator Bill Dotzler, Chair; Senator Bill Heckroth, Vice-Chair

Education: Senator Frank Wood, Chair; Senator Wally Horn, Vice-Chair

Health & Human Services: Senator Jack Hatch, Chair; Senator Keith Kreiman, Vice-Chair

Justice Systems: Senator Tom Hancock, Chair; Senator Gene Fraise, Vice-Chair

Transportation: Senator Matt McCoy, Chair; Senator Steve Warnstadt, Vice-Chair

Government Oversight: Senator Tom Courtney, Chair; Senator Mike Connolly, Vice Chair

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New Majority Will Lead to Safe, Secure Future for All Iowa

2006-11-08T15:05:00.000-06:00

Statement by Iowa Senate Democratic Leader Mike Gronstal

"It appears that during the next General Assembly, Democrats will hold a 30-20 majority in the Iowa Senate. The election was a victory for our candidates, men and women who were actively involved in their communities, who listened to Iowans, and who offered a positive agenda for a safe, secure future.

As legislators, our job now is to continue listening to our constituents and to work together to find common ground. We will work with Governor Chet Culver and with all Democratic and Republican legislators seeking to develop bold, bipartisan solutions.

Top priorities include:

• Big steps to improve Iowa schools by ensuring that we have the best teachers in our classrooms and more accountability in our schools.
• Initiatives to create more good-paying jobs that will enrich the lives of workers in big cities, rural areas and small towns, including Iowa’s continued leadership in renewable energy.
• Legislation that makes health care more affordable and accessible for more Iowans.

New Democratic Senators:

• Rich Olive, Story City (Senate District 5)
• Bill Heckroth, Waverly (Senate District 9)
• Rob Hogg, Cedar Rapids (Senate District 19)
• Staci Appel, Ackworth (Senate District 37)
• Becky Schmitz, Fairfield (Senate District 45)

Senator Black Speaks to Iowa Veterans

2006-01-17T11:51:00.000-06:00

Senator Dennis Black addresses a crowd of veterans. Hundreds of veterans visited the capitol to advocate for legislation that benefits veterans and active duty members of the armed services. Senator Black has been an advocate of legislation that includes home buying assistance, grants to injured veterans, the veterans property tax credit, lifetime fishing and hunting licenses, and educational assistance for the children of deceased veterans.