Government : Kapucian Korner: Iowa Senate begins session with tax relief, schools a priority

The 2013 Legislative Session kicked off this week with the usual ceremonial tradition. Everyone is optimistic that we will be able to work together to make Iowa a better place. We sometimes fall short of our beginning expectations but we do make progress.

We heard many speeches outlining priorities and Governor Branstad gave his annual Condition of the State address. The good news is that our state is strong and the Governor outlined his three-point plan to help Iowa grow stronger:

1. Provide property tax relief
2. Make Iowa schools the best in the nation
3. Improve Iowan’s quality of life

These three items are a great place to start for Iowa on the road to overall success. Through sound fiscal leadership, Iowa has filled its coffers and continues to create a state budget that spends less than it takes in and protects our rainy day funds. Like Iowa families, Iowa government has tightened its belt and will continue to live within our means. That sort of responsible leadership is good for all Iowans.

These sound budgeting practices will enable us to focus on things like restoring our education system to top-notch status. We know that the education system needs to be reformed and student achievement levels need to be raised. It’s time to move Iowa’s education system forward and I am committed to working through that process to give our most important investment, our students, the leg-up they need to compete in the global economy. Restructuring the education system will help produce world class students and world class employees for Iowa jobs with Iowa employers.

While the condition of the state is growing stronger, Iowa is in a great position to capture economic success. That means lowering the property tax burden across the board. We have some of the highest property taxes in the nation. We know that Iowans have been feeling the property tax pinch for too long. We know we must remain focused on providing real tax relief that empowers hard working Iowans. Real property tax relief will embolden businesses and provide job creation.

We have a lot to sort through the next few months. I will continue to update you weekly. If you would like to be added to my contact list so you can receive this newsletter on your e-mail, let us know.

See you out and about the district.

Please feel free to contact me: tim.kapucian@legis.iowa.gov.

SENATOR TIM KAPUCIAN DISTRICT 38

BENTON, IOWA, & POWESHIEK

COUNTIES