Good bills signed into law
With the 2016 session moving toward adjournment, many bills are finding consensus in the Legislature and making their way to the Governor’s desk. New laws to boost our economy, honor military veterans,...
View ArticleMore safe, convenient transportation options
New legislation will make safe, convenient, affordable transportation options more available to Iowans, while also creating job opportunities. House File 2414 sets consistent standards for...
View ArticleImproved historic tax credits will revitalize more communities
Iowa’s popular Historic Preservation Tax Credit Program helps rehabilitate historic buildings and revitalize communities throughout the state. It has successfully transformed big and small communities...
View ArticleBird flu prompts stronger biosecurity in Iowa
Iowa plays an important role in feeding the world. That’s why last year’s bird flu was so troubling. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has described the outbreak of 2015 as the largest animal health...
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2016 Session Highlights
Senate Democrats’ 2016 Session Highlight (PDF) Maintaining our commitments in tight budget times During this tight budget year, Senate Democrats fought to maintain economic security for Iowa families...
View ArticleMaintaining commitments in tight budget times
The 2016 legislative session wrapped up April 29. It was a tight budget year, but as always, we balanced the state budget responsibly. Iowa will end the fiscal year with a $75 million surplus and $700...
View ArticleVeterans can fill skilled job openings
Iowa needs skilled workers to fill immediate openings and anticipated retirements over the next five years. Our state has an average of 34,718 daily job vacancies and more than 100,000 workers are...
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Schoenjahn: Gov’s latest unilateral decision is bad news for Iowa children &...
June 6, 2016 Statement by Senator Brian Schoenjahn of Arlington: Senator Brian Schoenjahn “I am surprised and disappointed by Governor Branstad’s unilateral decision to close the 15-bed Psychiatric...
View ArticleTourism grows economy, improves quality of life
Summer is here, and it’s time to enjoy all that Iowa has to offer. Our great quality of life is bolstered by the arts, culture and recreation. These opportunities and amenities are important to local...
View ArticleOn Medicaid “…Iowans should be heard first.”
Opening Comments at the August 29th Statehouse Medicaid Listening Post by Senator Amanda Ragan of Mason City, Senate Co-Chair of the Health Policy Oversight Committee “I’m glad we are holding a...
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Danielson organizes listening post State of Iowa’s vision and support for UNI
Senator Jeff Danielson State Senator Jeff Danielson of Cedar Falls is organizing a public listening post at the University of Northern Iowa from 11:30 AM to 1 PM on Thursday, September 15, in the...
View ArticleWind energy is an economic success story in Iowa
Innovative energy has been a hallmark of the Iowa economy in recent years. Geography, natural resources and a strong agricultural heritage have positioned us for success in the industry. The...
View ArticleIowa’s solar industry is taking off
Iowa’s solar industry is growing with the help of successful policies that create jobs, promote installation and expand businesses. Utilities are constructing solar energy systems, and homeowners and...
View ArticleRenewable fuels deserve federal support
Americans deserve fuel choices at the pump. Here in Iowa, we encourage gas stations to install flex fuel pumps and other equipment to offer homegrown, renewable ethanol and biodiesel. The...
View ArticleFeedstock can boost homegrown economy
Iowa is the first state to adopt a biochemical tax credit. According to a 2014 study that laid out an economic road map for Iowa, it’s the type of growth opportunity we should pursue since we have lots...
View ArticleIowa is good for business
Senate Democrats are working to expand Iowa’s middle class and build a stable economy for all. We’re spurring long-range growth and prosperity across Iowa by: Ensuring Iowans have opportunities for job...
View ArticleBoosting Iowans’ income & employment
The Iowa economy is steadily moving in the right direction, and I’m working to ensure that continues. Iowans deserve good jobs and fair pay that reward their hard work. It’s also good news that we...
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