Government : Fourteenth Week of the 2025 Legislative Session

Some of the Iowa Young Republicans visited the Capitol this week!

SF 617, the Veterans Trust Fund bill passed unanimously in the Senate this week.

We reached the fourteenth week of the 2025 legislative session, and it was a productive one. In the Senate, we debated and passed over 30 bills, covering a wide variety of topics. These included civics test requirements for high school students, interstate compacts for dietitians and respiratory therapists, and protections surrounding our First Amendment rights.
In recent election cycles, recounts have played a key role in verifying that the outcomes reflect the will of Iowa voters. Just as it's critical to cast ballots securely, it's equally important that the recount process is transparent and consistent. This week, the Senate passed House File 928, a bill designed to improve Iowa's recount laws.
This legislation lays out clear standards for when a recount is triggered, how it can be requested, and who manages the process-ensuring uniformity and trust in every corner of the state. These updates reinforce our election system and give Iowans greater confidence that their vote is counted fairly and accurately.
Rural health care remains a top concern, particularly when it comes to staffing and ensuring access to care in every part of the state. As home to one of the top medical schools in the country, Iowa should be making sure that taxpayer-funded residency and loan repayment programs are focused on training professionals who will stay and serve here.
To that end, the Senate passed House File 516, which sets a minimum requirement that at least 80% of students accepted into the University of Iowa's medical and dental programs-and those in UIHC residencies and fellowships-must be Iowa residents. The bill also supports rural care by encouraging primary care residencies to include a rural rotation. This legislation invests in Iowa's future healthcare professionals while meeting the evolving needs of our communities.
Last year, Iowa faced numerous natural disasters-from tornadoes and flooding to windstorms-that took a toll on many communities. While recovery efforts are ongoing, it's critical that we improve how we prepare and respond to these unpredictable events.
Senate File 619, proposed by Governor Reynolds and passed this week, ensures the state can respond more quickly and effectively during emergencies. It provides financial assistance for disaster victims and implements safeguards to ensure Iowans are working with reputable contractors during recovery. It's a practical step to help communities bounce back stronger.

April 15-Tax Day-was more than just a filing deadline this year. It was also the day the Senate passed Senate Joint Resolution 11, a constitutional amendment that would make it harder for future legislatures to raise income taxes.
Since 2017, Iowa has undergone significant tax reform: eliminating the inheritance tax, removing taxes on retirement income, and introducing a flat tax that took effect earlier than planned. These changes have positioned Iowa as one of the most tax-friendly states in the Midwest-and among the lowest nationwide.
SJR 11 would require a two-thirds supermajority vote in the legislature to raise income taxes or create a new one. This is the second time the resolution has passed the Senate. If it clears the House this session, it will go to the voters in the 2026 general election.