Dave Sires (R-Cedar Falls).

Funnel Week

The sixth week of the legislative session officially kicked off the rush toward the first major legislative deadline. The initial “funnel” deadline is this week, making it imperative to advance any ideas intended for further consideration. This deadline brought a flurry of activity within various subcommittees and committees as we worked through the large number of proposals being considered in each chamber.

As the first funnel deadline brings this burst of activity, it is clear the Senate’s focus is a blend of fiscal responsibility, common-sense solutions, and preparing Iowa for the future. In the coming weeks we will shift from the rapid introduction of new ideas to debate and refinement of the bills that survived.

One bill that I’m proud to have managed through subcommittee is SF493, which would prohibit cities and counties from using tax revenue to pay for lobbying. Using taxpayer money to hire political lobbyists is fundamentally wrong because it diverts public funds to influence legislation in ways that may not align with the best interests of residents. Many cities already employ their own lobbyists, yet they still contribute additional tax dollars to other municipal or county organizations with their own lobbying efforts, creating a redundant and wasteful cycle. Often, these lobbyists work against the very issues that residents support, such as property tax reform, which many citizens favor. Moreover, state lawmakers are extremely accessible to their constituents and local officials, who have the capacity to advocate directly for their interests without the need for costly middlemen. By relying on local representatives and officials to voice concerns, taxpayers can ensure their money is spent more effectively and transparently, rather than on duplicative lobbying efforts that may work against their priorities. I was pleased to see this bill pass the full Local Government Committee on Thursday so it can now head to the Senate floor.

Education funding

Throughout the week, Senate and House leadership met to work out a final deal on State Supplemental Aid (SSA) for K-12 schools. The Senate had previously passed a 1.75% increase while the House passed a 2.25% increase. In the end, it looks like the final number will be a 2% increase which is what the governor originally proposed. Additionally, it will include $7 million that is to be allocated to increase paraprofessional salaries.

Remembering Parker Sutherland

On Monday, I paid tribute to UNI football’s Parker Sutherland, who tragically passed away unexpectedly on Saturday. Parker was a first-year student at UNI and a valued member of the football team, having come to UNI after an impressive athletic career at Iowa City High School, where he competed in football, basketball, and baseball. As a senior, he earned second-team all-state recognition in football, showcasing his talent and dedication. Parker loved video games, watching movies, and most of all, he cherished his teammates, friends, and family. His loss is deeply felt by all who knew him, and his memory will continue to inspire those around him. After my remarks, the Senate held a moment of silence for Parker and his family.

The heavy hand of government

On Tuesday, I delivered a speech on the Senate floor addressing the detrimental impact of government overreach on the manufactured housing industry. Prior to my remarks, a colleague highlighted the unfair treatment of mobile home residents and the declining conditions within these communities. As someone who has dedicated my entire life to this industry, I felt compelled to respond, emphasizing that the root cause of these issues lies in misguided government regulations and poor public policy. These mandates have created an environment where business viability is increasingly threatened. In fact, my wife and I recently sold our own mobile home park because we could no longer risk being driven out of business by these excessive government mandates. The community had been in my family since I was a child. We aren’t alone. More and more of these family-run communities are falling victim to big government.

Visitors this week

The Capitol was bustling with visitors again this week, and it was truly refreshing to engage in conversations with them in between committee meetings. On Monday, I had the pleasure of meeting with staff from Black Hawk County Public Health, discussing important community health initiatives. They are a great group of people who I always enjoy chatting with. Tuesday brought visits from members of the Iowa Professional Fire Fighters Association and UNI students studying athletic training. Thursday was especially exciting as we celebrated CTE (Career and Technical Education) Day at the Capitol, welcoming numerous talented high school students from the district who showcased their skills and ambitions.

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.