Creating jobs that improve our communities
The Senate Ways & Means Committee recently approved two bills that will help expand Iowa’s middle class by creating good jobs in fields that improve our state’s economy and quality of life. The...
View ArticleMore skilled workers will grow Iowa’s economy
We need to do more to expand Iowa’s middle class and help Iowans still recovering from the national recession. One problem is that Iowa does not have enough skilled workers to fill available job...
View ArticleCreating jobs, growing middle class with clean energy
As a leader in wind energy and ethanol, Iowa is showing the nation that clean energy works—and it’s good for more than just the environment. Bipartisan support for expanding production is helping Iowa...
View ArticleEconomic plan invests in Iowans, jobs & communities
In the final weeks of the 2014 session, we continue our work to strengthen Iowa’s middle class and generate economic activity in communities across the state. A big part of that effort is the Economic...
View ArticleApprenticeships & job training expand middle class
The 21st century economy needs workers with postsecondary credentials and the ability to adapt to changing business needs. Apprenticeship programs prepare thousands of workers to fit that bill every...
View Article2014 Session Successes
STRENGTHENING IOWA’S WORKING FAMILIES Prepared by the Senate Democratic Staff May 1, 2014 (PDF of 2014 Highlights) This year, we built on efforts to provide greater economic security for Iowa families...
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End of Session Statement by Senate President Pam Jochum
Senate President Pam Jochum May 2, 2014 When we began the 2014 session of the 85th General Assembly, I urged us to create a rising tide to lift all boats. The recovery from the 2008-2009 Great...
View ArticleQuality-of-life investments boost economy, middle class
Iowa’s great quality of life is bolstered by a variety of arts, culture and recreation. These opportunities make daily life more enjoyable—and they’re good for our economy. “They create jobs, attract...
View ArticleEnjoy new Iowa endeavors this summer
As the school year ends and the weather warms up, many Iowans are thinking about summer vacations, weekend trips and activities to enjoy with family and friends. There is a lot to do close to home....
View Article2014 Session Successes – UPDATED
STRENGTHENING IOWA’S WORKING FAMILIES Prepared by the Senate Democratic Staff Updated with Governor’s vetoes, June 26, 2014 (PDF of updated 2014 Highlights) This year, we built on efforts to provide...
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Bolkcom: Don’t dump $25 million MORE into worst economic development deal ever
Senator Joe Bolkcom presenting information to the Iowa Senate on the worst Iowa economic development deal ever, the Orascom deal. July 10, 2014 (DES MOINES) State Senator Joe Bolkcom of Iowa City, the...
View ArticleCreating jobs, growing Iowa’s economy with clean energy
Iowa is proof that clean energy works. We lead the nation in wind power generation and in biofuels production. We also rank among the top 12 states in the nation when it comes to energy efficiency....
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August 26 & 27: Oversight Hearings on pressuring judges to rule against...
August 26 and 27 Senate Oversight Committee Hearings Did Branstad officials pressure judges to rule against Iowans seeking unemployment benefits? The Branstad Administration’s response to overpayments:...
View ArticleTraining a skilled Iowa workforce
Studies repeatedly find that employers are unable to find workers with the skills to fill job openings, education and training don’t match workplace needs, and workers are not aware of programs that...
View ArticleLocal businesses get a tax cut this month
Iowa’s fiscal responsibility has allowed us to cut property taxes and still end the fiscal year with a budget surplus. Senate File 295, approved in 2013, included the largest property tax cut in Iowa...
View ArticlePetersen: “Reforms that will clean up state government”
September 30, 2014 Prepared Statement by Senator Janet Petersen, chair, Iowa Senate Oversight Committee Last spring, when the Iowa Senate debated reforms related to various scandals involving state...
View ArticleApprenticeships & job training expand middle class
The 21st century economy needs workers with postsecondary credentials and the ability to adapt to changing business needs. Apprenticeship programs prepare thousands of workers to fit that bill every...
View ArticleInvestments in job creation and small business
One of the most important jobs of the Legislature is to invest in the long-term prosperity of Iowa and its citizens. Fiscal responsibility and sound budgeting are allowing us to do that, with...
View ArticleIowa stands out for jobs and business climate
Creating more good jobs and expanding Iowa’s middle class are our top priorities for the 2015 legislative session. Iowa is already one of the best states in the nation for business because of our...
View ArticleHistoric preservation revitalizes communities
Historic Preservation Tax Credits are an important economic development tool to revitalize Iowa communities and preserve our cultural heritage for future generations. The program also generates...
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