Dave Sires (R-Cedar Falls).

First legislative deadline next week

This week was the fifth week of the legislative session, and with our first legislative deadline coming up next week, our focus remained on subcommittee and committee meetings to consider legislation for this year. More subcommittee and committee meetings meant a wide variety of proposals are still being filed and discussed in our committees, including department bills.

First bills debated on the floor

Along with a busy committee schedule, we saw our first debate of the year on Tuesday. The first bill discussed was SF 2096, which brings more flexibility to the foster parent training requirement and reinforces competent-based training. This will eliminate redundancies in the application process, while maintaining proper screening and background checks. This bill is a step toward modernizing Iowa’s foster parent system that promotes opportunities for individuals to become foster parents. The bill was passed.

The second bill we debated was Senate File 2201, the proposal by Senate Republicans for K-12 education funding for the next fiscal year. This bill is an increase of nearly $100 million for the next school year and brings total spending on K-12 education by the state to $4.35 billion. Under this bill, the state would be spending $8,133 per student in Iowa, not including local or federal sources of money. Including all sources of funding – state, federal and local – Iowans are investing over $19,200 per student. The proposal passed by the Senate this week clearly shows a dedication to education, fiscal responsibility and the priorities of Iowans. Additionally, this proposal continues the commitment by Senate Republicans to reducing the tax burden on Iowans by increasing the state’s share of the property tax payment for public education.

Education funding has become one of the most discussed and debated issues in our state and across the nation. Questions about how much to invest, where those dollars should go, and how to measure success are complex and deeply felt by families, educators, and taxpayers alike. It’s natural that there will be disagreements. Education is personal, and everyone wants what’s best for their children and their community. My wife and I are both proud graduates of public schools, and so are our three children. Our experiences in Iowa’s public schools helped shape who we are today. While we may not always agree on the exact approach to funding, we should agree on the goal: ensuring that every Iowa student has access to a high-quality education that prepares them for college, careers, and life.

Transparency shouldn’t be partisan

On Tuesday, I crossed the aisle with three other Republicans to support an amendment to the Senate rules, led by Senator Bill Dotzler, that would have required 24 hours’ notice before holding subcommittee meetings. Unfortunately, the amendment failed. Subcommittee meetings are the only opportunities Iowans have to participate in the legislative process, and there’s a long-standing agreement that they should be scheduled with at least a full day’s notice. This hasn’t been happening as of late. Earlier this session, a subcommittee on an important issue was announced at 4 p.m. and then held at 8 a.m. the next morning, giving the public almost no time to prepare or participate. Transparency and public access shouldn’t be partisan; they should be the standard to ensure an open and accessible government.

An awesome grand opening

This week, I had the honor of attending North Tama’s grand opening of their new high school and athletic area, a truly momentous occasion for the community. It was inspiring to see the excitement and pride shared by students, staff, and residents alike as they celebrated this important milestone. As part of the ceremony, I had the privilege of presenting the school with a State of Iowa flag and a U.S. flag, both of which were flown over the Iowa State Capitol, symbolizing the school’s connection to our state and nation. It was a memorable event that highlighted the community’s commitment to education and excellence.

More visitors to the Capitol

This week was filled with wonderful visits from many people back home, which I truly enjoyed. I had the pleasure of meeting with representatives from the UNI student government, who were in the building promoting mental health legislation. Additionally, I connected with Allen College Occupational Health Students during their annual lobby day, showcasing their dedication to health initiatives. I love seeing visitors at the Capitol and always try to meet with as many groups as possible. If you plan to be at the Capitol, please reach out so I can include it on my calendar!

State Senator Dave Sires represents Iowa Senate District 38 including Cedar Falls, Hudson, Traer, Dysart, Evansdale, Elk Run Heights, Gilbertville, Washburn, LaPorte City and Mount Auburn. Contact Sen. Sires at dave.sires@legis.iowa.gov.