State Rep. Derek Wulf (R-Hudson).

I am often reminded of low’s original leaders and their service to our state, and it makes me more passionate serving the people of District 76. An honorable government is dedicated to the respect of power.

Every day, we welcome several organizations to the State House advocating for their views. This week was no exception. The State House welcomed the low Cattlemen’s Leadership Program Team to discuss the 2023 policy priorities that affect low’s farmers. In the heartland, lowa’s farmers know what is best for their operation. In order to preserve and protect our farmers, I am working on a bill that will benefit the independent livestock and crop producers by limiting drones flying over private property for surveillance purposes without permission, with regulations meeting requirements from the FAA.

Among several issues addressed, the Transportation Committee worked last week to allow for

restricted Commercial Drivers Licenses for limited agricultural purposes. This will allow all lowa’s farmers and suppliers to make the best decision for their operations for seasonal ag labor with restricted CDL licensing. The bill states that the hired individual restricted CDL licenses is valid for 210 days before renewal and within 150 miles of farm operation.

I would like to extend a huge thank you to Representative Sexton for his leadership in the Way & Means Committee on HF 205 and HF 206. Both passing the House, HF 206 is a bill creating property tax exemptions for above ground removable storage tanks. The moveable tanks above ground are no longer considered real estate and therefore shall not be assessed and taxed. HF205 directs $60,000 in taxes paid by small breweries with brewpubs and will go to the low Wine and Beer Promotion Fund.

Over the past month, I have been receiving emails with concerns from local governments about the Property Tax Rollback Calculations error that was made. I want to be clear that this error has beer fixed to prevent a property tax increase with a bill proposed by the Senate and passed by the House, SF 181. To address the concern of local governments, this bill has been amended to give local governments a one-month extension to reset their budgets for the fiscal 2023 year.

Late last week I led the House Chamber through HF 204 recommended by the Transportation

Committee. In 2005, the “Train Horn Rule” became effective nationwide, changing criteria for

sounding the horns at public highway-rail grade crossings to offer relief to communities where

trains pass through. Today across lowa there are only 16 quiet zones and this bill will help

communities recoup some costs when they install quiet zones. HF 204 states that a driver must stop within 50 feet but no less than 15 feet from a gate or signal. HF 204 will increase penalties from $250 to $520 with the option of deductions for taking the driver improvement program offered by the lowa DOT.

It’s always a pleasure greeting several students from lowa universities to the State Capitol. This week I had the opportunity to greet and talk with students from the University of Northern lowa. It amazes me how many opportunities are provided to help ensure great success for the next generation, with the quality of leadership from our colleges and universities. lowa will always be a home for those willing to help others.

Rep. Wulf’s district, Iowa House District 76, includes the communities of Traer, Dysart, and Buckingham in Tama County. He can be reached via email: derek.wulf@legis.iowa.gov