Hello, Iowa House District 84 from the State Capitol!

The number of bills being considered on the house floor has slowed down considerably after the second funnel deadline has passed. Committees continue to consider bills that are coming from the senate and budget bills continue to go through negotiations. Last week, we passed 16 bills, with basically one being partisan, and the rest passing with an average of at least 90% approval – very bipartisan!

One bill that passed unanimously on the house floor was HF 2601, which bans foreign nationals from donating to ballot issues. It’s sad that we even need to consider this, but unfortunately, it’s a sign of the times. The bill is now across the rotunda being considered by the senate.

An uplifting bill that has passed both the house and senate and sent to Governor Kim Reynolds for her consideration is SF 2220. This bill aims to support and promote our students who are high achievers academically. Students who demonstrate high cognitive and creative ability on standardized tests and also are identified and encouraged by teachers and parents can be placed, for example, on an advanced mathematics pathway, even as early as elementary school. This bill intends to help Iowa students achieve their full potential!

More good news about Iowa is that our state ranks NUMBER ONE in the nation in overall affordability in 2025, according to the non-partisan https://www.commonsenseinstituteus.org/iowa/research/jobs-and-our-economy/the-inflation-hangover-how-the-post-pandemic-price-surge-reshaped-affordability-in-america. Iowa ranks 4^th best nationally in the share of gross income for housing and utilities, 4^th in childcare, 8^th best for gasoline, 11^th for car insurance, 12^th for groceries, and 21^st for health insurance, all these rankings as a percentage of gross income. Comparing surrounding states for 2025, Missouri ranks 7^th, Minnesota 21^st, Illinois 29^th, Wisconsin 31^st, and Nebraska 37^th. Historically, Iowa ranked 6^th overall in 2019. This shows Iowa is a great place to live and raise a family! We’re doing very good but there’s always room for improvement.

Have a safe and healthy holy week and Happy Easter!