Legislative Update

Posted by on January 26, 2010 · Leave a Comment 

Stock Photos

Iowa government is facing its toughest year yet. As you will read below, the current financial outlook for Iowa is bleak. But in the midst of all these problems, I want you to know that House Republican leaders are asking questions designed to hold legislators accountable and keeping the upcoming budget process transparent for all Iowans to scrutinize.

Iowa’s Spending Gap Rises Perilously

During Governor Culver’s term, the gap between state spending and revenue has skyrocketed. In FY2009, the spending gap was $400 million, which increased to $800 million in FY2010. However, fiscal services is now estimating a $1.1 billion spending gap for FY2011.

How Much Money Will Government Reorganization Save ?

Only a couple weeks ago, Democratic leaders of the State Government Reorganization Committee claimed that there were “scores of millions of dollars to be saved” through creating a new operating structure of state government. However, this week we learned that the current recommended changes yield only 1.7 million savings in  FY2010, 28.9 million in FY2011, and $66.7 million in FY 2012, which is far short of the earlier prediction of $200 million in savings.

Property Taxpayers Beware! Education Bill Watch

House File 2001, sponsored by key Democrats, allows Iowa school districts to shift up to $380 million in employee benefit costs from the general fund to property taxes. If passed, HF2001 could result in up to $380 million in additional property taxes for Iowans.

In Your Community

I want to hear your input on addressing Iowa’s issues. Our first 2010 legislative forum is on Saturday, January 30 from 9-10 am at the Norwalk Library, 1051 North Avenue. I look forward to seeing you there!

As I write this newsletter, I am struck by the enormity of the job that lies ahead, particularly with Governor Culver and Democrats in control of the legislature. I’ll need your help this year to make sure our voices are heard.

Respectfully,

Rep. Kent Sorenson

Kent.sorenson@legis.state.ia.us

515-962-2192

Filed under Straight Talk · Tagged with , , , ,

Beginning Of The 2010 Session

Posted by on January 20, 2010 · Leave a Comment 

state-capitol-des-moines-ia107The Iowa Legislature opened its 2010 session this week, and there is much to be done in Iowa to follow the will of its people. I am writing this newsletter to help you stay informed and be involved in your government. Together, we’ll hold our elected officials accountable – for both transparency in how they conduct the legislature, and how they spend our hard-earned money.

Governor Culver’s Condition of the State Speech

Governor Culver’s address on Tuesday included the statement, “I’m proud of the fact that we’ve balanced the budget three years in a row, without raising taxes on hardworking Iowans.” However, the governor has signed utility tax increases, employer tax increases, and levied a $250 million property tax increase during this time. He continually avoided taking responsibility for Iowa’s current budget crisis.

Did you know that over $7 million of the $165 million designated for disaster relief and prevention is being funneled to projects that aren’t even disaster related?

This year Iowans will have the opportunity of voting Culver out of office, but we have a tough year ahead keeping fiscal irresponsibility in check.

Let Us Vote Rally

On Tuesday, January 12, Iowans from all across the state once again came to the statehouse to ask their legislators to let them vote on a marriage amendment. I had the opportunity to speak to the 1000+ Iowans gathered and I am humbled by the overwhelming grassroots effort to protect the vital institution of marriage in Iowa.

Hot Topics Ahead

I’ll be keeping you informed as we take on numerous fundamental issues in this session, including balancing the state budget, improving education, addressing labor and unemployment issues, enacting gun legislation, and once again, preserving the institution of marriage in Iowa.

In Your Community

Join me for the first of our 2010 legislative forums on Saturday, January 30 from 9-10 am at the Norwalk Library, 1051 North Avenue. I look forward to seeing you there!

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to represent our district in the House of Representatives. That responsibility means a lot to me, and I am working hard to ensure your voice is heard.

Respectfully,

Rep. Kent Sorenson

Kent.sorenson@legis.state.ia.us

515- 962-2192

Filed under Straight Talk · Tagged with , , , ,