The 2018 session is officially underway

     On Tuesday, Jan. 9, I listened and took notes as Governor Reynolds outlined her priorities for this year. I look forward to working in a bipartisan fashion with her on many of the important issues she highlighted.

Water quality is a top issue that Governor Reynolds wants to address. She indicated that regardless of what policies we pass this session, we must continue to improve them in the future.

     Her speech outlined adequate funding for education and the importance of apprenticeship programs as a way to build our workforce and stimulate Iowa’s economy. I also appreciated that she mentioned promoting rural economic development by investing in improved broadband infrastructure.

     Governor Reynolds mentioned that we must work together to change the culture of sexual harassment at the Capitol. Last year, the lawsuit involving the Senate Republicans cost Iowa taxpayers $1.75 million. I agree with Governor Reynolds that public officials must serve as role models for appropriate workplace behavior.

     One of the biggest items on this year’s agenda is tax reform. I believe Iowa is at its best when we invest in its people. That’s why I will work to ensure the $106 million projected to come into the state revenues from the federal tax cuts is distributed to the people of Iowa. Fixing our tax code will mean analyzing every tax credit and designing a system that is fair to all Iowans, rural and urban, young and old, regardless of income.

     Governor Reynolds also talked in her speech about improving access to mental health care and addressing the national opioid epidemic.

     While I look forward to hearing more details from Governor Reynolds about her plans to address these issues, I value your feedback and suggestions as our legislature gets to work. Please continue to mail, call, e-mail, comment, tweet, and message us—I look forward to hearing from you!

     To contact Sen. Bowman when the legislature is in session, call the Senate Switchboard at 515-281-3371. Otherwise, he can be reached at 563-370-2422. You can e-mail him at tod.bowman@legis.iowa.gov.