Overview / Major Events
Iowa Senate delays action on significant workers compensation reform As predicted in this newsletter last Thursday, the House did pass a comprehensive package of reforms to Iowa’s century-old workers compensation system. After a long and “spirited” debate, House Republicans provided all 55 YES votes and sent HF 518 to the Senate. However, last week’s prediction that the Senate would act on the bill THIS week looks likely to be proved false, as I do not expect full consideration by the Iowa Senate until some time NEXT week. Senate Republican leaders remain confident the bill will be adopted in its present form and sent to the Governor, soon, but are focusing on some internal caucus issues to ensure further weakening of the bill does not occur during Senate consideration of a number of amendments. |
Apparent deal reached on legislation regulating use of electronic devices while driving The Iowa Senate amended and passed legislation that further regulates the legal use of electronic communication devices while driving. SF 234 was originally authored to prohibit the use of electronic communication devices while driving, unless the devices were being operated in “hands-free” mode (with violations of the law being primary offenses and legitimate cause for being stopped by law enforcement). SF 234 was amended to make the use of an electronic communications device a primary offense for all uses EXCEPT for making calls or using GPS. It appears this language will be acceptable to the House and should ensure it reaches the Governor’s desk. House Action This Week
Senate Action This Week
Efforts on Behalf of Community Bankers of Iowa
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