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Iowa Election Update

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 21:42:16 GMT

Some shake up under the Golden Dome

GOP Expand House and Senate Majorities

The Republican majorities in the House and Senate will increase in the upcoming 2025 Iowa Legislative Session following Tuesday’s general election.

Republicans Increased their Senate majority by one, now holding 35 of that chambers’ 50 seats. The Democrat minority now totals 15 seats.

In the House, the GOP majority expanded by three members, up to 67 seats.

The Democrats now hold only 33 seats in the 100 member House of Representatives.

Three House Incumbents Fall

Three incumbent House of Representatives members were defeated in their reelection attempts.

6-term House of Representatives incumbent Democrat Chuck Isenhart of Dubuque was defeated by Republican Jennifer Smith by a margin of over 1000 votes.

In House District 41 (Ankeny and portions of unincorporated Polk County) Democrat incumbent Molly Buck was defeated by GOP challenger Ryan Weldon.

Marshalltown Democrat incumbent Sue Cahill lost her reelection bid to the GOP’s David Blom by over 400 votes.

Senate Races of Note

Two longtime Senators from the Des Moines area fell to challengers on election night

Incumbent Democrat Nate Boulton lost his reelection bid to the GOP’s MIke Pike by less than 50 votes in the 20th Senate District which includes portions of Des Moines, Altoona and unincorporated Polk County.

In Senate District 22 (Des Moines, and suburban Des Moines,) incumbent Republican Brad Zaun lost to former nursing home industry lobbyist/attorney and former Clive City Council member Democrat Matt Blake by over two thousand votes.

Republican Dave Sires topped incumbent Democrat Eric Giddens in the 38th Senate District. Sires’ 400 vote win comes in the district which stretches from Cedar Falls to Traer and Dysert.

Also the hotly contested battle for Senate District 14 (portions of West Des Moines, Clive, Urbandale, Waukee and Dallas County) between incumbent Democrat Sarah Trone-Garriott and Dallas County Supervisor Mark Hanson was decided by only 19 votes. Trone-Garriott garnered 20,429 votes and Hanson earned 20,410.

Judicial Election Updates

This year, Iowa voters weighed in on two significant constitutional amendments. One focused on clarifying the gubernatorial line of succession, while the other aimed to formally establish voting age and citizenship requirements. Both amendments received voter approval, marking a notable update to the state’s constitution.

In addition, Iowa held judicial retention elections, giving voters the power to decide if a judge should continue serving. On the ballot were one Iowa Supreme Court justice, four Iowa Court of Appeals judges, and 64 district court judges. A "yes" vote meant the judge would stay in their role for another term, while a "no" could mean replacement. In this round of retention elections, Iowans chose to retain all judges in their positions.

Final Legislative action

Mon, 20 May 2024 19:24:02 GMT

Last of bills signed by the Governor.

On Friday, Gov. Kim Reynolds concluded the legislative actions for the bills passed during the Iowa Legislature’s 2024 session, marking a significant milestone. Reynolds signed 185 out of the 188 bills passed by the Iowa Legislature, a testament to the state’s commitment to progress. Additionally, lawmakers approved two proposed amendments to the Iowa Constitution, further shaping the state’s legal landscape.

The governor had a 30-day window, starting from the end of the legislative session on April 20th, to sign or veto every bill sent to her desk. Among the bills, she vetoed House File 2539, which sought to increase penalties for state open meetings law violations. The bill proposed a significant increase in fines for known violations and introduced a new exception for elected officials. However, a state board and a nonprofit advocacy group raised concerns about government transparency and argued that the bill could potentially undermine the law it was designed to protect.

Notable Bills Signed:

- HF 2686: This bill pertains to the organization, structure, and functions of state and local governments, salaries of certain state officers, statutory corrections, and effective date provisions.

- SF 2370: Concerns the executive branch rulemaking process and other agency functions.

- SF 2385: Relates to state government boards, commissions, committees, and councils and includes effective date and transition provisions.

Governor Reynolds commented on signing HF 2686, SF 2370, and SF 2385:

Governor Reynolds released the following statement in response to signing HF 2686, SF 2370, and SF 2385:

“Government should be consistently reviewing and improving our systems and the quality of services we provide, just like any business does for their customers. Its a simple concept that government works for the people, not the other way around. Last year I cut 21 agencies from my cabinet, reduced government bureaucracy and red tape, and made state government more responsive to Iowans,” said Governor Reynolds.

“These bills are a continuation of that work. Iowa’s boards and commissions have never been comprehensively reviewed and adjusted for effectiveness and have grown exponentially in size and scope over decades. Today, we reverse that trend, reducing 83 boards and commissions, fixing identified inefficiencies, and unlocking the full potential of last year’s legislation to more effectively deliver services to Iowans.”

- HF 2605: Relates to the regulation of hemp and hemp products, including penalties.

“I have concerns about this bill and have heard from individuals and groups on both sides of the issue,” said Governor Reynolds. “Ultimately, I am signing it into law to protect minors from dangerous and intoxicating products. At the same time, we’ve taken steps to ensure that children who are resistant to medications and suffer from seizures and other medical conditions continue to have access to consumable hemp alternatives for relief.”

Other Bills Signed:

- HF 2460: Relates to human trafficking, including parole and work release, victim counselors, and guardian ad litem appointments for witnesses with mental disabilities.

- HF 2644: Creates a program and fund for court reporter equipment and makes appropriations.

- HF 2707: Relates to transactions involving used catalytic converters.

- HF 2167: Relates to disaster aid, including the individual assistance grant fund and disaster case advocacy grant fund.

- HF 255: Modifies requirements for teacher intern license programs and establishes a temporary initial teaching license for alternative certification program graduates.

- HF 2652: Relates to school security, including school bonds, professional development moneys, and security infrastructure, and requires a task force on school safety standards.

- HF 2687: Relates to renewable fuel infrastructure and includes a financing program.

- HF 2641: Relates to agriculture, including program administration, regulations, appropriations, and penalties.

- HF 2388: Relates to residential building exterior styles and materials regulation.

- HF 2677: Relates to vapor product regulation and penalties.

- SF 2109: Relates to driving privileges for persons under 18, with penalties.

- SF 2289: Relates to economic development and energy shortages under the economic development authority and governor, with penalties.

- HF 664: Exempts certain leases or rentals between affiliates from sales and use tax and vehicle registration fees, with effective date and retroactive applicability provisions.

- HF 2681: Relates to automated traffic systems for law enforcement and registration plate image capture, with penalties.

- SF 345: Relates to tobacco product regulation and penalties.

- HF 2708: Relates to the powers, duties, and responsibilities of state government entities regarding budget, financial control, and IT, with penalties and appropriations.

End of the General Assembly

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 17:56:56 GMT

Adjournment sine die

The Iowa Legislature concluded its 2024 session in the early hours of Saturday, fulfilling most of the Republican trifecta's priorities for the year. The Senate, wrapping up at 3:26 a.m., and the House, following suit at 4:23 a.m., worked in the final stretch to pass significant spending and policy bills.

This year's legislative session, ending on its 104th day, was characterized by Republicans pushing through impactful bills on education, taxes, and other topics. The marathon session culminated with both chambers passing a resolution to adjourn sine die, marking the completion of a series of bills that set the state's $8.9 billion budget and addressed key policy priorities from the Republican party.

Notably, judges and magistrates in Iowa are set to receive a 5 percent pay increase as part of the proposed judicial system budget outlined in Senate File 2436. This increase, totaling $2.4 million from the $220.2 million judicial system budget, aims to improve compensation for those in the state courts. The judicial retirement system will return to a Fixed Contribution Rate from its current variable contribution rate, as before 2022.

Furthermore, lawmakers allocated an additional $2.3 million to the State Public Defender's Office, which includes funds for raising the pay of private attorneys representing indigent defendants. This marks the third consecutive year of pay increases, with an additional $3 per hour. Additionally, the budget reallocates $2 million from the state's indigent defense fund to hire 12 new salaried attorneys in underserved areas, such as Scott County, where there's a shortage of contract attorneys for defendants needing legal representation.

The 2024 Iowa legislative session witnessed a comprehensive array of bills covering various aspects. However, many new laws will be put into effect soon. Here is a list compiled from various sources:

1. Education :

- House File 2612 restructured Area Education Agencies' funding, increased teacher pay, and set a 2.5% state supplemental aid rate for public schools.

- House File 2586 provided legal protections for school staff carrying firearms.

- Senate File 2095 safeguarded the expression of religious beliefs in schools.

2. Criminal Justice :

- Senate File 2431 extended the civil statute of limitations for Boy Scouts settlements.

- Senate File 2240 and Senate File 2243 addressed AI-generated pornography with criminal charges for creating such content.

3. Healthcare :

- House File 2673 established a new Behavioral Health Services System.

- Senate File 2251 expanded postpartum Medicaid coverage.

4. Government and Regulations :

- Senate File 2385 reduced state boards and commissions.

- Senate File 2096 repealed gender balance requirements for government boards.

- Senate File 2252 revamped the More Options for Maternal Support (MOMS) program.

- Senate File 2204 enhanced oversight on foreign agricultural land ownership.

5. Taxation and Finance :

- Senate File 2442 reduced state income tax rates for 2025 to 3.8%.

- House File 2319 prohibited guaranteed basic income programs.

- Senate Joint Resolution 2004 proposed a flat state income tax rate in the constitution.

- Senate File 574 offered tax incentives for significant investments.

6. Miscellaneous :

- House File 2687 relaxed E15 requirements for gas stations.

- House File 2681 regulated automated traffic enforcement cameras.

- House File 2618 focused on early literacy proficiency.

- House File 2545 revised social studies curriculum standards.

This legislative session showcased a wide-ranging effort to address education, criminal justice, healthcare, government operations, taxation, and more issues.

For more in-depth coverage of the final days of the legislature, please see the following:

https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2024/04/21/the-2024-legislative-session-what-passed-and-what-failed/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=newsletter_axioslocal_desmoines&stream=top

https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2024/04/20/iowa-lawmakers-pass-income-tax-cut-budget-bills-in-push-to-end-session/

https://www.thegazette.com/state-government/which-bills-did-iowa-lawmakers-pass-in-2024-which-failed-to-pass/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=on_iowa_politics_drama_into_the_literal_final_minutes_of_the_legislative_session&utm_term=2024-04-22

Balancing Lobbying, Attorney and the Truth

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 22:48:27 GMT

A balance that not everyone gets right!

As a lobbyist, I understand that misinformation or incomplete truths are expected in politics. However, as an attorney, I must uphold legal ethics and standards, including honesty and truthfulness, in all communications and dealings.

1. Lobbyist’s Perspective:

- Encountering misinformation: Lobbyists often navigate a complex landscape where stakeholders may present biased, exaggerated, or incomplete information to sway opinions or decisions. They must be vigilant and critical in assessing the credibility and accuracy of the information they receive.

- Managing Misinformation: While lobbyists may encounter misinformation, they are not expected to propagate it. Instead, they must verify facts independently and present accurate information to decision-makers to ensure informed decision-making.

- Navigating Ethical Boundaries: Lobbyists must operate within ethical boundaries, refraining from knowingly presenting false or misleading information. However, they may strategically frame information to highlight certain aspects beneficial to their cause while ensuring overall accuracy.

2. Attorney’s Perspective:

- Legal Obligations: Attorneys are bound by strict ethical and legal obligations, including rules of professional conduct that mandate honesty and truthfulness in all legal matters.

- Client Representation: Attorneys represent their client’s interests zealously within the bounds of the law, but they must do so based on accurate and truthful information. Misrepresentation or deceit can have severe consequences, including professional sanctions or legal liability.

- Fact Verification: Attorneys are responsible for verifying the accuracy and validity of client information obtained during legal proceedings. They cannot knowingly rely on false information or misrepresent facts to the court or opposing parties.

In summary, while lobbyists and attorneys operate in environments where misinformation may be encountered, the key distinction lies in each profession’s ethical and legal standards. Lobbyists must be cautious in navigating and verifying information, while attorneys have a stringent duty to uphold truthfulness and integrity in all legal matters.

I am a young professional... Do I need a will?

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 17:02:10 GMT

Yes you do, and estate planning is easy!

There are several important reasons why a young professional should consider getting a will done and engage in simple estate planning:

1. Protecting Assets: Even if you don't have substantial assets now, you may acquire them. A will allows you to specify how your assets should be distributed upon your death, ensuring that your wishes are carried out and potentially avoiding disputes among family members.

2. Guardianship for Dependents: If you have children or dependents, a will allows you to designate guardians for them in the event of your death. This ensures that they will be cared for by someone you trust and according to your preferences.

3. Decision-Making Authority: Through estate planning, you can appoint someone to make financial and medical decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated. Without these documents, such decisions may be left to the courts, which can be time-consuming and costly.

4. Tax Planning: Proper estate planning can help minimize the tax burden on your estate, potentially saving your beneficiaries money in taxes and inheritance.

5. Minimize Probate Issues: By planning your estate carefully, you may be able to avoid or minimize the lengthy and expensive probate process. This can also help maintain privacy, as probate proceedings are typically a matter of public record.

6. Peace of Mind: Having a will and estate plan in place can provide peace of mind, knowing that your affairs are in order and your loved ones will be taken care of according to your wishes.

Even for young professionals who may not yet have accumulated significant wealth, having a will and engaging in simple estate planning can provide valuable protection and ensure their wishes are fulfilled in the event of incapacity or death. It's always a good idea to consult an attorney to help you navigate the process and ensure your plan reflects your circumstances and goals.

Why hire a lobbyist?

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 21:22:09 GMT

To be your voice!

An organization might choose to hire a lobbyist to represent them in front of the Iowa Legislature for several reasons:

1. Advocating for Interests: Lobbyists can advocate for the organization's interests, whether it's related to specific legislation, regulatory issues, or government policies. They can help ensure that the organization's concerns are heard and considered by lawmakers.

2. Policy Influence: Lobbyists can help shape legislation and policies that affect the organization's interests. By providing information, research, and strategic advice, lobbyists can influence the legislative process in favor of their clients.

3. Access to Decision-Makers: Lobbyists often have relationships with lawmakers, government officials, and key stakeholders. They can provide access to decision-makers and facilitate meetings and discussions that may not be easily accessible to the organization otherwise.

4. Expertise and Knowledge: Lobbyists typically have expertise in navigating the legislative process and understanding the complexities of government policies and regulations. They can provide valuable insights and guidance to the organization on how best to engage with lawmakers and government agencies.

5. Monitoring and Tracking Legislation: Lobbyists can closely monitor legislative developments and track bills and regulations relevant to the organization's interests. They can provide timely updates and analysis to the organization, allowing them to stay informed and strategically respond to legislative changes.

6. Coalition Building: Lobbyists can help build coalitions and partnerships with other organizations, interest groups, and stakeholders with similar goals and interests. These groups can amplify their voices and increase their influence on the legislative process by working together.

Hiring a lobbyist can benefit organizations seeking to navigate the complexities of the legislative process, advocate for their interests, and effectively engage with policymakers in the Iowa Legislature.

A sledgehammer or a gentler approach

Sat, 24 Feb 2024 17:34:07 GMT

Two different methods for different results.

The terms "sledgehammer approach" and "lighter touch" refer to two distinct strategies in lobbying, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

1. **Sledgehammer Approach**:

- This strategy involves aggressive and forceful tactics aimed at achieving immediate and significant results.

- Sledgehammer lobbying often includes high-pressure tactics such as massive advertising campaigns, direct confrontations with policymakers, and mobilizing large numbers of constituents to inundate legislators with calls and emails.

- Pros:

- Can generate rapid and noticeable impact.

- Sends a strong message to policymakers.

- Effective for urgent or high-stakes issues.

- Cons:

- May alienate policymakers or stakeholders if perceived as overly aggressive.

- Risk of backlash from the public if tactics are seen as heavy-handed or manipulative.

- Short-term gains may come at the expense of long-term relationships and credibility.

2. **Lighter Touch**:

- This approach focuses on building relationships, providing information, and engaging in dialogue with policymakers over time. It emphasizes collaboration, persuasion, and building consensus.

- Lighter touch lobbying involves cultivating relationships with key decision-makers, offering expertise and resources, and shaping policy through education and persuasion rather than direct pressure.

- Pros:

- Builds trust and credibility with policymakers.

- Allows for nuanced understanding of issues and tailored solutions.

- Fosters long-term relationships that can be beneficial over time.

- Cons:

- May take longer to achieve results compared to more aggressive tactics.

- Requires patience and sustained effort to see tangible outcomes.

- May be less effective for urgent or high-profile issues where immediate action is necessary.

Ultimately, the choice between a sledgehammer approach and a lighter touch depends on factors such as the nature of the issue, the political landscape, the goals of the lobbying effort, and the preferences and resources of the lobbying organization. Often, a combination of both approaches may be employed strategically, with the sledgehammer used sparingly for critical moments and the lighter touch employed for ongoing relationship-building and advocacy efforts.

Lobbying and Advocacy, Knowing Your Scope

Thu, 08 Feb 2024 20:37:56 GMT

Comprehending The Intricacies Of Lobbying And Advocacy

Comprehending the intricacies of lobbying and advocacy within the legislative process is paramount for effecting change in policy decisions. While legislators represent voters, numerous other individuals and groups are vying for their attention. Legislators face a significant demand for attention with limited time, and money's influence cannot be overlooked. Financial resources often facilitate access to the system, allowing industries with deeper pockets to shape legislation and prioritize funding.

Lobbying constitutes the endeavor to sway decisions made by government officials, predominantly legislators or regulatory agency members. It typically involves directly engaging lawmakers or their aides to champion specific policies, legislation, or issues.

Successful lobbying demands a strategic approach in the context of the Iowa legislature or any legislative body. This entails:

1. **Identifying Your Priorities**: Recognize the causes or issues most significant to you or your organization and prioritize them based on their impact and feasibility of change.

2. **Building Relationships**: Forge connections with legislators and their staff. Attend town hall meetings, schedule appointments with representatives, and engage in pertinent events to foster rapport and articulate your concerns.

3. **Crafting Your Message**: Clearly convey your stance on the issue, substantiating it with evidence or data. Tailor your message to resonate with the values and priorities of the legislators you're targeting.

4. **Coalition Building**: Collaborate with like-minded individuals or organizations. Unity strengthens advocacy efforts, amplifying your message and bolstering your influence.

5. **Strategic Resource Allocation**: While financial resources can facilitate lobbying, they're not the sole determinant of success. Time, expertise, and grassroots support are equally valuable resources to leverage effectively.

6. **Persistence and Adaptability**: Legislative processes are often protracted and intricate. Sustain engagement over the long term, persist in advocacy efforts, and remain adaptable to changing circumstances.

7. **Ethical Considerations**: Uphold transparency and integrity in all lobbying endeavors. Avoid unethical practices such as misrepresentation, as they can undermine credibility and detract from your cause.

By strategically focusing advocacy efforts, you can maximize impact and enhance the likelihood of achieving goals within the legislative process. It necessitates being well-informed, organized, and steadfast in pursuing change.

If you're interested in discussing representation in front of the Iowa legislature, feel free to let me know.

Effective Advocacy

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 00:04:40 GMT

Building Connections

To effectively advocate, it is crucial to focus on your local community and the area where your firm is located. Engaging your local elected officials close to home can directly and immediately impact you. By understanding your local community's specific needs and challenges, you can tailor your advocacy approach to address issues that resonate with the state legislators.

Personally, connecting with state legislators is crucial for effective advocacy. These connections help create a network that enhances the impact of your efforts. These connections will help you become a resource for state legislators. Participate actively by attending legislative days, legislators' coffees, and listening events in your community. These events offer valuable opportunities to connect with legislators, fellow advocates, and key stakeholders, fostering a deeper understanding of the issues.

In addition to written communication, take advantage of the immediacy and personal touch of phone calls, especially when there is a call to arms. A well-timed call to your legislators can amplify your voice and provide a more direct channel for conveying your opinions on specific issues.

Keeping engaged with the legislative process and staying informed demands a multifaceted approach. Subscribing and reading newsletters from your state legislators, even if you disagree with them, can help influence decision-making, fostering a deeper understanding of critical issues of state legislators.

Building personal connections with state legislators enhances the overall influence of your efforts, fostered through active participation in events like legislative days and listening sessions. Staying engaged, including subscribing to newsletters from state legislators to stay informed and influence decision-making. By actively participating in the democratic process at local and state levels, we can meaningfully contribute to shaping policies that reflect our needs and concerns. Effective advocacy is not just about expressing opinions; it's about building relationships, staying informed, and actively participating in the democratic dialogue.

Welcome to our new website!

Wed, 30 Dec 2020 21:13:24 GMT

Welcome to our new website! This site has been professionally designed to be responsive and mobile friendly, so it looks great and is accessible no matter what type or size of device you are using.

Our new website also has an integrated Client Portal, meaning you are able to access your case documents, correspondence, and calendars directly from our website!

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us today.