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Legislature creates responsible, pro-growth budget that keeps commitments
The 2008 session will be remembered as one in which the
Iowa Legislature stood up for Iowa
families, kept the promises made to Iowans, and approved a fiscally
responsible budget. Together,
Republican and Democratic legislators showed that it’s possible to work
together to get things done for Iowans.
A few of this year’s highlights include:
- The
second phase of our four-year, $100 million commitment to help Iowa businesses
expand their production of renewable energy, alternative fuel, and clean
technology. I am a strong
advocate for the Iowa Power Fund initiative and represent the Senate on
its board. Soon we’ll begin
awarding Power Fund dollars to Iowa
projects. This is a significant
step in promoting Iowa-grown energy, helping our family farmers become
more profitable, and strengthening national security by reducing our
dependence on foreign oil.
- Budgeting
responsibly and putting our state’s fiscal house back in order. With a
national recession on the horizon, fiscal prudence – not a spending
spree on a host of new programs – was our battle cry this session. One
result of our belt-tightening is that we will have more money than ever
in our state’s savings and “rainy day” accounts.
- Making
health care more affordable and accessible for all Iowa children. With overwhelming
support, the Legislature agreed to make health care coverage available
to all Iowa
kids within the next three years. This initiative is the largest new
commitment the Legislature made this year.
- Improving
student achievement by ensuring that we have the best teachers in Iowa
classrooms. Thanks to continued
bipartisan support, the 2008-2009 school year
will be the last in a three-year effort to raise the average pay of Iowa teachers to
25th in the nation. Accountability will be increased by connecting
teacher pay with such district goals as improved student achievement.
Throughout the 2008 session, Iowans shared their ideas and
concerns with legislators in communities across the state. We are thankful for your suggestions and
comments.
Between now and the start of
the 2009 session, I encourage you to contact me with your ideas and
concerns. In the meantime, I’ll
continue to provide updates on this year’s successful session and how local
Iowans, businesses, schools and communities will benefit.
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