‘2011 Session Information’ Archives
Court Knocks Down Branstad Veto That Closed 36 Job Centers
Iowans looking for work won a big victory today when a district court ruled Governor Terry Branstad’s veto closing down 36 workforce centers across Iowa was unconstitutional. “After working together across party lines last session to make sure Iowans who need help finding a job could get it, I’m pleased the court overturned Governor [...]
2011 New Laws Starting July 1st
A number of new laws will go into effect on July 1, the start of the state’s fiscal year. Several changes were made during the 2011 legislative session that will affect Iowans, including the end of the one year warning grace period for texting while driving and tougher enforcement for driving a boat while under the influence. To see a full [...]
2011 Legislature Finally Adjourns
After Republicans finally agreed to compromise, the 2011 Iowa Legislature finally adjourned on the 172nd day of session. It was the third longest session in Iowa history. Here's the statement from House Democratic Leader Kevin McCarthy: House Republicans spent too much time focusing on divisive social issues – which brought Iowa to the [...]
Republican 600 Page Bill ‘Irresponsable’, Dems Call for Public Input & Review
House Democrats called for a public hearing today to give Iowans time to read the 600 page Republican budget bill. “This bill is the largest in Iowa history, spending over $25 billion, and Iowans deserve time to review it and give us input,” said State Representative Tyler Olson, Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee. [...]
Nuclear Energy Debate Scheduled for Today
Today the Iowa House is scheduled to debate whether Iowa should build a nuclear energy plant. House File 561 establishes the regulatory construct and regulatory certainty that is needed for Iowa to attract the significant capital required for a nuclear facility. Read the Bill Summary here and the Amendment Summary here.