2020 Session Wrap-up
A quick list of the good, the bad and the ugly bills of the 2020 legislative session.
Issues
Statement by Senate Democratic Leader Janet Petersen on passage of Criminal Justice Reforms
Iowans are calling for social and racial justice. Senate Democrats are ready to make that a reality, and we are so happy to make a first step today in a bipartisan manner.
Boulton: Solutions to racial injustice must be new
Our city, state, and nation are struggling with what is broken in our society. Racial injustice isn’t new, but our solutions absolutely must be. We have seen powerful, poignant moments. A peaceful, massive assembly has inspired new conversations. It also inspired a powerful and real emotion for some: anger.
Wahls: Addressing Iowa’s stresses before session ends
The Iowa Legislature has resumed the 2020 session. Over the next two weeks, I hope we will:
** Pass a balanced budget based on the latest revenue estimates.
** Fight for the needs of Iowans, businesses and communities impacted by the coronavirus pandemic.
** Push for laws to address racial inequities in Iowa.
Petersen: We can take immediate steps to end racial disparities
Iowans and Americans everywhere are coming together to say “enough is enough.” It’s time that our actions condemn hate and racism. It’s time that our actions advance equality and justice for all.
Mathis, Sweeney: Forgive Medicare Loans
Hospitals and other healthcare providers accessed advanced payments through the CARES Act Medicare Loan Fund to bridge losses. Loan forgiveness is vitally important and is much more critical now, given the fact that hospital losses have far exceeded the relief from Cares Act grants.
Legislative Democrats’ COVID-19 Recovery Agenda
Iowa’s Democratic lawmakers have released a plan to address the needs of Iowa families and business during the reconvened 2020 session, starting June 3. The goal is to keep lawmakers focused on addressing problems related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
New budget estimates mean we must focus on real solutions
Based on the updated revenue estimates, the Governor and legislators must strategically use available resources– including federal funds and the state’s rainy-day fund – to protect key priorities: education, health care and employment security.
Petersen: Let’s give Iowans a healthier way to restart the economy
The number of COVID-19 cases is still increasing, and nationally ranked hotspots are popping up all over the state. Yet, the Governor and Republican legislators continue to deliver narratives that are heavy on spin and light on facts and data.
Celsi: More testing, oversight needed
So far, TestIowa has not delivered on its contractual promise to test at least 5,000 people per day. Sen. Celsi is calling for expanded testing in cooperation with other entities.