From the ground up

     The Egg Bill was brought to the legislature on behalf of the people of Iowa. Producers, grocers, and consumers all weighed in on the value of what it would bring. This bill did not carry any partisanship from beginning to end. It was always about what is in the best interest of Iowans. First and foremost, it was about using tax dollars effectively and efficiently. Parents with young children participating in the WIC program needed to be assured conventional eggs would be available for purchase with their government issued WIC benefit. Taxpayers also wanted to be assured their tax dollars could be used on conventional eggs and not expensive specialty eggs. It is comforting to know all types of eggs are of high quality, and no one will be purchasing an unacceptable product.

     Grocers appreciate what the bill had to offer because it allows them to offer an array of egg products to meet consumer demands. Consumers are now ensured all types of eggs are available and their choices can be met. State rules already demand grocers to supply conventional eggs for WIC participants. This bill simply put into code what is already happening.

     Producers saw value in the bill because they have the ability to produce the type of eggs the consumer is demanding. They now have the choice to raise specialty eggs of all types or conventional eggs, whichever is in their own best interest.

     This bill received broad bipartisan support because it was a win for all Iowans.

Two New Health Care Plans

     Multiple Employer Welfare Arrangement (MEWA) is a tool where employers can obtain insurance through an association of employers, rather than obtaining a policy specifically for their business. By allowing employers to group together they can increase their buying power through economies of scale and can also avoid the restrictions and burdens found in the individual and small group markets. Simply, MEWAs provide an avenue for small businesses to avoid the collapsing individual market in Iowa and have access to affordable health insurance.

     Agricultural Health Plans will allow Farm Bureau to offer health benefit plans to their members. This bill will allow Farm Bureau to offer health benefit plans, which will not be considered “insurance” under state or federal law. Thus, taking these plans out of the ACA requirements. The bill will require Farm Bureau to self-fund these plans and have a third party administrator to administer the plans.

     Iowa tried the stopgap measure to fix this problem, but it ultimately did not get implemented. There are Iowans out there who are suffering because of the cost of health insurance under the ACA. This is an option for Iowans who should not have to pay a small fortune each year for health benefit coverage. This is important news for many Iowans.