Government & Politics

Also, a proposal dealing with state audits of government agencies passed out of the Iowa Senate.

Republicans say the proposal expands post-partum care for low-income Iowans who need it most, while Democrats say it expands care for some low-income Iowans at the expense of coverage for others.

The state has $26.8 million in funds from settlements from cases against major opioid manufacturers and retailers, and it’s expected to receive around $144 million over the next several years. Lawmakers’ proposed bills would govern how those funds are spent.

Iowa Senate Republicans advanced Gov. Kim Reynolds’ legislation that would accelerate previously planned state income tax reductions. But the top Senate Republican on tax policy said legislators, in the coming weeks, also will advance their own proposal, which includes an eventual elimination of the state income tax.

Also, Cedar Rapids seeks more feedback on Greenway Parks Plan

Bills in the Iowa Legislature test the fate of a vital link that the state’s area education agencies provide to families and schools for inclusive learning.

Iowa Supreme Court Chief Justice Susan Christensen will continue to talk about pay increases for judges until something changes and is encouraging Iowa judges to talk to their local lawmakers to make the case for a 6.2 percent increase. Gov. Kim Reynolds has proposed 2 percent.

Louie Zumbach, a Republican from Coggon, will not seek re-election this November to the District 3 seat on the Linn County Board of Supervisors “due to some soul searching and health issues.” Instead, his daughter Brandy Zumbach Meisheid, also a Republican from Coggon, will run for office.