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Hello friend,

Here is IEC's legislative news bulletin for April 24 – 28, 2023.

Last week was the final scheduled week of the 2023 Legislative Session, but legislators are still finishing up budget work and wrapping up outstanding policy priorities pushing them into this week. Both chambers moved budget bills through the process this week, and the House has already released a lengthy debate calendar for today.

Looking ahead

The chambers looked to be moving toward adjournment this Wednesday or Thursday, but ongoing budget disagreements may drag session out for one or two more weeks. It's always hard to know exactly what to expect, but we will continue to track action and update you on important news. 

See our bill highlights below, view the bill tracker for the full list of bills that remain alive, and check out our action alerts for action you can take now.

 

Bill Highlights

• SF 455, which would prevent local governments from enacting runoff and topsoil protection ordinances for developments, is back for consideration with new amendment language. The bill would restrict city and county ability to protect local streams from degradation, flooding, and erosion. It was stalled due to bipartisan opposition, but it will be reconsidered within the Republican Caucus on Monday, with a chance to head to the floor for debate this afternoon. Unfortunately, the new amendment language does not adequately address the issues with the bill language. The latest amendments (H-1304 and H-1306) would make cities and counties cover the majority of the costs of stormwater management on development sites and pay a developer for the land required to locate the practices. With the legislature expected to adjourn this week, there is not enough time to properly consider the implications of the amendment language and formulate better solutions. You can help us prevent the bill from seeing the House floor by completing our Action Alert today

 
 

Legislative News of Interest 

End looms for Iowa's legislative session as key priorities await action (Gazette)
• Sensors indicate another attack on Iowa's environment (Gazette)
Senate passes agriculture, natural resources budget bill with public lands provision (Iowa Capital Dispatch)

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iecmail@iaenvironment.org
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