Government : First Week of the 2026 Legislative Session

On opening day, we heard remarks from Senate Majority Leader Mike Klimesh and Senate President Amy Sinclair. Senator Sinclair reflected on moments of bipartisan cooperation in the Senate, noting, “Just last year, more than 60% of the record votes taken in the Senate were unanimous, and nearly 70% passed with at least 40 yes votes. We agree far more than we disagree.”

I am proud of the progress Iowa continues to make and hopeful that spirit of unity carries forward. Over the past several months, we have seen meaningful results from policies advanced through the legislature and signed into law. In September, 528 Iowa schools showed improvement in one or more performance categories. Absenteeism dropped from 21.6% in the 2023–2024 school year to 15.8% in 2024–2025. More than 15,000 high school seniors participated in work-based learning opportunities, and reading proficiency among third-grade students increased by 11% in just one year.

Just six years ago, Iowa ranked 43rd nationally in tax competitiveness. In November, our state climbed to 17th. The Tax Foundation credited this improvement to multiple rounds of pro-growth, structurally sound tax reform that strengthened Iowa’s competitive position. Our economy continues to grow as well, with Iowa ranking second in the nation for economic growth in November. The Iowa Business Council recently reported a positive outlook heading into 2026, with expected gains in sales, capital investment, and job growth statewide.

At the start of the year, Iowa also received encouraging news on public safety. In 2025, our state recorded the lowest number of traffic fatalities since tracking began in 1925. That year, 261 fatalities were recorded. In 2025, the number dropped to 259. Legislation aimed at reducing distractions on the road—such as last year’s hands-free law, Senate File 22—along with IDOT programs like Alive at 25, are likely contributors to this progress. We hope this trend continues into 2026.

While many challenges lie ahead this session, we are eager to get back to work and continue delivering solutions for Iowans and their families. As Senator Klimesh said in his opening remarks, “By working together in the Senate, with the House and the Governor, we can achieve truly great things—building on past accomplishments, preparing Iowa for the future, and leaving this state better than we found it.”

Senate Republicans Release Property Tax Overhaul

For years, Iowans across the state have voiced concerns about rising property taxes. We’ve heard from neighbors, small business owners, retirees, and families worried about the impact of property inflation on their ability to stay in their homes and communities. Those concerns were heard loud and clear, which is why Senate Republicans introduced a major property tax overhaul on the very first day of the legislative session.

Senate Study Bill 3001 refocuses the system on everyday Iowans who are building their lives, growing their wealth, and putting down roots in our state. At its core, this proposal recognizes that Iowans should be able to truly own their homes. Under the bill, Iowans aged 60 and older who have paid off their mortgage would no longer be subject to involuntary property taxes on their primary residence.

The proposal also preserves local control by allowing communities to approve additional revenue when needed. When property valuations increase by more than 2%, levy rates would automatically adjust downward. Tax and spending limits in the bill place common-sense restraints on unchecked local spending while offering a more sustainable and predictable system for both local governments and taxpayers.

Iowa currently ranks among the ten worst states in the nation for property tax burden. Improving that ranking requires comprehensive reform that accounts for the unique needs of rural, suburban, and urban communities alike. This proposal modernizes a system that no longer works while also addressing longstanding concerns from cities and counties by dedicating additional funding to improve roads and bridges across the state.

Homeownership remains a cornerstone of the American dream, and meaningful property tax reform helps keep that dream within reach for Iowans. After years of small adjustments, it is time for bold, lasting reform—and Senate Republicans are committed to delivering it.

Thank You District 42!

Feel free to contact me with any comments, questions, or concerns regarding how I can best serve you as your Senator. I look forward to another great week of representing the people of District 42!