Iowa lawmakers recently concluded a four-month legislative session that saw a focus on special education reform and tax cuts. Governor Kim Reynolds, a Republican, submitted 18 requests for bill drafts, the most of her tenure. One key issue addressed was the revision of the state’s education system for students with disabilities. A compromise was reached allowing school districts to choose how to spend 10% of their special education funding starting in 2025, although concerns remain among advocates and AEA staff. Lawmakers also approved an increased minimum salary for Iowa teachers and allocated funds to help raise supplemental teacher pay.
In addition to education reform, the legislature passed provisions to restrict programs related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) at public universities. Similar to other Republican-led states, Iowa passed a bill making it a state crime to be in the state if previously denied admission to or removed from the United States. The law has raised concerns in immigrant communities and prompted questions on enforcement. Another bill updated a program funding crisis pregnancy centers and expanded maternity leave for low-income mothers on Medicaid. The state also enacted a Religious Freedom Restoration Act, echoing a federal law from 1993.
Republican lawmakers also voted to accelerate the state’s 2022 income tax cuts, implementing a 3.8% flat income tax rate next year. They also introduced two tax-related constitutional amendments for Iowa voters to consider. However, some bills did not succeed, including one that would have removed gender identity from the state’s civil rights law and another that narrowly defined male and female. Lawmakers also rejected a bill that would have given legal protections to Bayer against claims regarding its popular pesticide Roundup causing cancer. Gov. Reynolds has chosen to let the abortion issue move through the courts rather than pushing for a vote.
Overall, the legislative session saw a range of issues being tackled by Iowa lawmakers, with a focus on special education reform, tax cuts, immigration, and religious freedom. While several bills were passed addressing education and other key issues, some controversial measures did not succeed, showcasing the ongoing divides within the state legislature. As Iowa voters look ahead to the next election cycle, these policy decisions are likely to play a significant role in shaping the political landscape in the coming years.
