Dave Sires (R-Cedar Falls).

A week of debate

This was the seventh week of the legislative session and it was filled with debate following our first legislative funnel deadline last week. Some of the bills we passed in the Senate this week include:

Senate File 2219: This bill requires school districts to grant a student an exempt absence when the student is absent from school for an activity or project sponsored by 4-H club or FFA. School districts are required to allow the student who is absent from school to make up any work they missed because of this absence.

Senate File 2430: Requires all public buildings to lower the United States and State of Iowa flags to half-staff when directed by a proclamation issued by the governor. In 2025, the flags were lowered a number of times either in recognition of a loss or in remembrance of a tragedy like Memorial Day or National Peace Officers Memorial Day. However, this bill has proven necessary after the horrible assassination of Charlie Kirk and some localities refusing to lower the flags as ordered. Lowering the flags is a simple way for us to show our respect to the fallen and as our state’s highest elected official, all public buildings and their officers should follow her lead to demonstrate our state’s unity.

Senate File 2422: Requires the use of federal citizenship data to verify only U.S. citizens are eligible to receive public assistance using taxpayer dollars. This bill would align Iowa with federal law by requiring Iowa Health and Human Services to use the SAVE database to verify eligibility of people receiving public assistance. Iowans expect the state to administer their tax dollars efficiently and effectively to the Iowans who need them most. This bill will continue our commitment to reduce the SNAP error rate, avoid future costly penalties, prevent abuse of the system, and lower the amount of uncompensated care being shifted onto Medicaid.

Addressing the Des Moines Public Schools scandal

Last fall, Iowa made national headlines when it was revealed that the high-paid superintendent of Des Moines Public Schools was not a U.S. citizen and had lied about his educational background, raising serious concerns about accountability and transparency in our schools. In response to this troubling situation, I was pleased to support and vote for common sense bills designed to prevent similar incidents in the future, such as stricter background checks and verification processes. These measures are essential to ensuring that those entrusted with our children’s education are honest, qualified, and committed to serving our communities with integrity.

Senate File 2218 requires the Board of Educational Examiners to require all applicants for licensure and all renewals of licensure to provide proof of legal authorization to work in in the United States. It passed the Senate unanimously.

Senate File 2412 requires the verification of United States citizenship and immigration status of newly hired public employees and individuals seeking a professional license. It requires the use of either E-Verify or the federal SAVE program for verification and provides additional safeguards for schools, counties, and cities throughout the hiring process. This bill also passed the Senate unanimously.

Supporting veterans through Frontlines United event

Lisa and I were honored to attend the Frontlines United fundraiser over the weekend in Tama County, and what an incredible evening it was. The event was packed with supporters who share a common commitment to our active duty military, veterans, and first responders, and the atmosphere was truly inspiring. The evening featured an amazing silent auction with wonderful items up for bid, and some of the best prime rib I’ve ever tasted, making the night even more special. Frontlines United’s mission is powerful and heartfelt: to reunite and support those who serve and have served our communities and country. It’s uplifting to see so many people coming together to stand behind these brave individuals, and we’re proud to support such an important organization.

Recognizing our Senate Pages

On Monday, I had the pleasure of introducing and recognizing the high school students serving as Senate Pages this session, giving us all a chance to learn more about these remarkable young leaders early on. While the Senate traditionally recognizes the Pages at the end of the session, introducing them at the beginning allows us to better understand their backgrounds, aspirations, and the important role they play in our legislative process. These Pages help lawmakers and clerks fetch bills, deliver messages from constituents and other lawmakers, and assist with various administrative tasks in the chamber. It’s inspiring to see such dedication and ambition in our youth, and I look forward to watching these students grow and succeed throughout the session.

A hero behind the scenes

The Iowa State Capitol is one of the most beautiful capitols in the nation and it wouldn’t sparkle the way it does without people like Randy.

While visitors admire the golden dome and polished halls, Randy is one of the behind-the-scenes heroes who makes the Iowa Capitol shine…literally. While most see the gleaming floors and shining brass, they don’t always see the early mornings, the steady hands, and the commitment it takes to keep it that way.

Thank you, Randy, for taking such pride in the place that represents us all.

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.