As the 100th day of the legislative session approaches on April 21st, legislators are focused on finding a compromise on the differing property tax proposals and finalizing the budget. The session will officially end once the budget has been passed.
Last week, Senate Republicans released their $9.623 billion budget target for FY 2027, which begins on July 1st and includes a 1.2% increase over FY 2026. This would leave the state with a remainder of $4.8 billion along with its rainy day and Taxpayer Relief Funds at the close of FY 2027. This budget comes in about $47.8 million less than the proposal submitted by the Governor in January.
Iowa lawmakers have passed a bill making the Iowa Child Care Assistance program permanently available for child care workers regardless of income (HF 2514). The measure now awaits the governor’s signature. The bill aims to address workforce shortages by making it easier for childcare providers, many of whom are parents, to stay in the field.
The House and Senate continue negotiations on property taxes, a top priority for legislators along with completing the budget.
Greater IC will continue to monitor these and other legislative issues and provide updates as the legislative session comes to a conclusion.
