State Sen. Tim Kapucian’s weekly update

Greetings from Under the Golden Dome

Will the Iowa Legislature do something for the flood victims of Southwest Iowa? That is probably something you have read or heard about lately. We are ready to assist where help is needed. Much of the infrastructure has been devastated. Power companies are restoring electricity where possible and potable water needs are being addressed as well. 

Road repair will be a major undertaking. While the IDOT will do repair to Interstate 29, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) will provide the funding. Local roads will be addressed with FEMA funds. USDA has programs available through Rural Development in the form of low interest loans and grants. The Army Corps of Engineers needs to rebuild the dikes and levies. Private insurance may cover some losses as well. In many areas the water hasn’t receded and the potential for continued spring flooding still exists. So the answer is yes we will step in with aid when all the parts are pieced together. So let’s take a deep breathe, be prepared to assess where the State of Iowa can fill in the gaps, and act appropriately, rather than just throw dollar figures around and pass some type of legislation with a shotgun approach. So once again, yes, we will support the flood victims.