Government : Week Eleven of the 2026 Legislative Session

Spring is here, and as we enter the eleventh week of the legislative session, we have successfully passed both funnel deadlines. Our focus now turns to the remaining legislation that may be considered this session. With those deadlines behind us, much of our time is dedicated to floor debate and finalizing bills for consideration in the Senate.

One bill addressed this week was Senate File 2427, which limits liability for human and natural producers of greenhouse gases from civil or criminal actions related to climate impacts. It also places the burden of proof on the individual bringing such claims. As an agricultural state, it is important that we continue to protect Iowa farmers and the broader agriculture industry from efforts that could disrupt their livelihoods as they help feed people around the world.

House File 766 also passed this week, allowing front side vehicle windows to be tinted to 50 percent light transmittance, while maintaining the requirement that windshields remain at 70 percent. Current law prohibits windows from being “excessively dark or reflective,” which has been interpreted as roughly 70 percent light transmittance. Rear windows remain unrestricted. This change aligns Iowa more closely with neighboring states and provides greater flexibility for vehicle owners, especially those purchasing vehicles from out of state.

Although this bill passed, I did not vote for it. Given my background in law enforcement, I have found the diminished visibility creates an undue risk to officers and the public when identifying the intentions of other motorists, especially in low light conditions.

Another bill, House File 2232, passed unanimously and strengthens protections against financial exploitation, particularly involving life insurance. It creates a framework allowing delays in disbursements when fraud or abuse of vulnerable adults is suspected. With scams increasingly targeting older Iowans, this legislation offers an additional layer of protection.

On Tuesday, we unanimously passed House File 2227, establishing required land restoration standards for electric transmission projects. The bill ensures that agricultural land is returned to its original condition by requiring repairs to drainage systems, removal of debris, and deep tilling. It also requires restoration plans to be filed and authorizes oversight by the Iowa Utilities Commission. This long-discussed measure provides important protections for landowners and now awaits the governor’s signature.

Similarly, House File 2583 passed unanimously, requiring electric transmission owners to submit emergency response plans to the Iowa Utilities Commission by the end of 2026. These plans must include 24-hour contact information and prioritize restoration to critical facilities such as hospitals. The bill also requires timely reporting of major outages and coordination during disaster responses, applying consistent safety standards informed by lessons learned from the 2020 derecho.

Each year, the Hoover Presidential Foundation presents the Uncommon Public Service Award to recognize outstanding service beyond legislative duties. Nominees exemplify Herbert Hoover’s values of integrity, honesty, and dedication to others. This year’s Senate recipient is Senator Dave Rowley, who has demonstrated exceptional commitment to his district, particularly during severe storms and flooding. His service makes him a deserving recipient of this honor.

As we head into the final weeks of session, our work shifts more fully to the chamber floor, where we will debate and act on key remaining priorities. There is still important work ahead as we strive to deliver results for our constituents.

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!