State Sen. Eric Giddens (D-Cedar Falls)

Last week was an exciting week at the Statehouse! Tuesday was the University of Northern Iowa’s Day at the Capitol, one of my favorite days each session. It’s always an honor to welcome UNI students and faculty to showcase the University’s opportunities and achievements.

As a state, we must continue to invest in education and support our higher learning institutions. UNI has a long-standing tradition of excellence, and it was inspiring to see the passion and dedication of its students, faculty, and staff who came to promote their programs and research.

Other highlights of the week included visits by school board members and credit union advocates from our district, and a subcommittee hearing on a bill to address the issue of domestic violence that was proposed by Dusky Steele of House of Hope in Waterloo. I’m proud of the greater Cedar Valley community and region, and I love the work of advocating for my constituents on issues that are important to them.

Thank you to everyone who contacted me this week either in person at the Capitol or via email. I’m here to help in any way that I can, so please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns.

Listening in Council Bluffs

Recently Senate Democratic Leaders held our very first listening tour of 2023, traveling to Council Bluffs for a series of meetings with community leaders and everyday Iowans.

We heard what’s on folks’ minds and how their state legislature could work better for them – from workforce to transit and education to apprenticeships to ethanol.

More than 40 people turned out for our listening session, where we had a great conversation on the hot buttons in the legislature and how we can push back against the most dangerous parts of Gov. Reynolds’ agenda.

We’ll be holding more events like these in communities across Iowa. Drop by when we’re in your town and, in the meantime, fill out our survey to let us know what’s most important to you!

Expanding access to medical cannabis

A Senate subcommittee advanced a bill on Tuesday to expand access to medical marijuana in Iowa. SSB 1113 would add additional vaporizable options for patients, while also doubling the amount of licensed dispensaries in the State. This bipartisan bill is a crucial step to ensuring that Iowans have access to effective treatment for a variety of conditions, including epilepsy and PTSD.

Maternal health bill falls short

Also on Tuesday, a Senate subcommittee considered parts of Gov. Reynolds’ maternal health package, including increased taxpayer support for controversial anti-abortion centers. While there are positive elements in the bill, many attendees expressed disappointment that a proposal from Senate Democrats to expand post-partum health coverage was not included. Read more about the bill here: https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2023/02/14/senate-panel-advances-governors-health-care-bill-without-over-the-counter-birth-control-provision/

Tax season is here

The Iowa Department of Revenue began processing tax returns on January 23, and Iowa income tax returns are due on May 1. The Department website is a good starting point to find tax forms and answers to all kinds of tax questions. The Tax Guidancesection has been improved to allow taxpayers and tax professionals the ability to easily search for tax guidance. The Expanded Instructions section provides line by line details to help complete the IA 1040. And for tax year 2022, the What’s New? page addresses some of the most common filing questions about individual income tax changes.

Safe at Home keeps survivors safe

Did you know Iowa provides address confidentiality for survivors of domestic violence, sexual abuse, assault, trafficking, and stalking? The Safe at Home program provides participants with a legal substitute address, mail-forwarding, and confidential voter registration and absentee voting. Visit SafeatHome.Iowa.gov to learn more.

State Senator Eric Giddens represents Iowa Senate District 38 including Cedar Falls, Hudson, Traer, Dysart, Evansdale, Elk Run Heights, Gilbertville, Washburn, LaPorte City and Mount Auburn. Contact Sen. Giddens at 319-230-0578 or eric.giddens@legis.iowa.gov.