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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.



State Representative Todd Taylor met with Kirk Ferentz after a House resolution was read honoring the coach's achievements with the Iowa football team on March 10.

I encourage you to contact me with your ideas and suggestions.

If you have any friends who are not on the list encourage them to subscribe here.

I look forward to serving you.



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Mental Health Hospitalization Notification Passes Judiciary

After the shooting death of Aplington-Parkersburg football coach Ed Thomas last year, the House Judiciary Committee passed a bill to update procedures for notifying law enforcement of the release of individuals hospitalized for a serious mental impairment. This would occur only if there is an arrest warrant or pending charges.

Senate File 2352 streamlines the process for law enforcement to be notified and addresses gaps in the system to assure law enforcement is notified. Read More

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Keeping Domestic Abuse Victims Safe

In an effort to protect women and men who are victims of domestic violence, federal law has prevented persons who are the subject of a protective order or convicted of domestic abuse from owning a gun.

Since most domestic violence cases are settled in the Iowa court system, Iowa judges and law enforcement officials requested the federal law be written into the Iowa code to make it easier to enforce. Read More

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Iowa Innovation Council Bill Passes

In an effort to boost Iowa’s high-tech industry and create jobs, the House and Senate have sent the Governor a bill that would establish an Iowa Innovation Council (ICC).

Under House File 2076, the council would include members of Iowa’s targeted industries of advanced manufacturing, life sciences, and biosciences. The ICC will help develop innovation and entrepreneurship in science, manufacturing, and technology driven businesses. They will also help with mentoring and recruitment of management talent. Read More

Cigarette Consumption Drops over 50%

Mixed Martial Arts Bill Passes House

Alliant Energy Asks for Another Rate Increase

Additional Disaster Assistance for Small Businesses

Texting Bill Changes, But No Agreement

Senate Sends Electricity Generation Bill to Governor

Disaster Recovery Funding Hits $3.8 Billion Mark

New State Fire Marshal Announced