Highlights in this edition:

• State’s Economic Forecasting Panel: Iowa’s Economy is Resilient and Strong
  • The panel concluded that Iowa is in a relatively good position
• Restrictions on Classroom Cell Phone Use Pass House
  • School districts currently restricting cell phones report academic improvement, reduced distractions, mental health gains
• New Legislation Targets Gift Card Fraud in Iowa
  • As criminals get craftier, the law has to evolve
• House Ways and Means Exempts More Retirement Income
  • To be eligible for the retirement income exclusion, a person must be disabled, at least 55 years of age, or be the surviving spouse of an individual

Highlights in this edition:

• Choose Iowa Food Purchasing Pilot Program for Schools
  • The program connects Iowa schools with local farmers and small businesses
• House Advances Mental Health Legislation
  • HF 509 adds autism coverage under the hawk-i program
• HF 472 Protects the Free Speech of Iowans
  • If someone attempts to sue an individual for sharing thoughts or opinions, there is an option to ask the court to quickly dismiss the lawsuit
• Nuisance Goose Legislation Moves Ahead
  • Geese will be aligned with other nuisance animals such as raccoons, opossums, and skunks

Highlights in this edition: 

• Education Committee Simplifies Bullying Law
  • Striking the list of traits and characteristics means the same standard is applies to ALL kids removing the special emphasis on certain groups
• Work Requirements and Healthy Foods Bills Introduced
  • Work requirements bill will reduce the dependence of low-income Iowans on public assistance and will help them move up the economic ladder
• State Government Expands Cancer Coverage for First Responders
  • All types of cancer will be covered for Iowa's firefighters
• No Taxes on Tips on Tap for Ways & Means
  • Service-industry employees would save over $28.0 million in taxes per year

Highlights in this edition:

• Iowa’s Taxpayer Relief Fund
  • For funds to be deposited in the Taxpayer Relief Fund, actual state revenue must exceed what had been projected for state tax collections
• Improving Math Proficiency Bill Follows Last Session’s Literacy Enhancement Plan
  • The Governor’s proposal is a step in the right direction to ensure Iowa students receive a strong mathematics foundation
• House HHS Committee Advances Governor’s Health Care and Child Care Continuum
  • Legislation draws down over $150 million in federal dollars for more residency slots in Iowa’s 14 teaching hospitals
• Are Any of Iowa's Border States Lowering Taxes?
  • Minnesota, sometimes referred to as Minnefornia, isn’t lowering income tax rates