Statehouse News
February 26, 2010

The 2010 legislative session is underway and we have a lot of work ahead of us. My priorities this year include balancing the budget, quality education and creating good jobs. I encourage you to contact me with your ideas and suggestions.

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I look forward to serving you.

Texting While Driving Ban Passes House

In an effort to improve safety on Iowa’s roadways and save lives, the House approved a ban on text messaging, instant messaging, and e-mailing while driving this week.

Numerous studies have shown that texting is one of the more serious distractions, even showing that a person who is texting is 23 times more likely to be in an accident. Read More

Care of Animals Legislation Passes to Governor

In an effort to protect pets and pet owners, the state will be authorized to inspect federally licensed commercial establishments which breed and care for cats and dogs. The inspection cannot take place unless a complaint has been filed with the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship.

This was one of the recommendations from a ten member interim committee that met last fall. Livestock is exempt from these requirements. Read More

Study Increases Iowa’s Wind Power Potential

In another boost to Iowa’s renewable energy efforts, a new study by the American Wind Energy Association has increased Iowa’s potential for generating wind energy.

Iowa now has wind generation of about 3,670 megawatts, and the study has increased Iowa’s potential to 370,000 megawatts, about four times greater than previously estimated. This places Iowa 7th in the country in potential. Read More

Contact Todd:
todd.taylor@legis.state.ia.us
1416 A. Avenue NW
Cedar Rapids, IA 52405
319-396-8587 (Home)
515-281-3221 (Capitol)
http://house.iowa.gov/taylor/

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