Iowa legislative session gets a ‘failing grade’

To the Editor,

   I just don’t get it… and yet, I do.

   Gov. Reynolds went into this Iowa legislative session with intentions of moving laws forward that would gain her national attention. In keeping with the Republican platform of attacks on families, children, public entities, and more, she believes it will give her a “step up” in being considered a “Republican national hopeful” for 2024. Republican legislators have been “kept in line” to rubber stamp her initiatives, even though majorities of Iowans don’t support them. As she continues to dance around the stage when Donald Trump of Gov. Ron DeSantis visit Iowa, I watch to notice whether she’s wearing a FLORIDA t-shirt underneath her patriotic blazers!

   The Iowa Republicans get an “A+” grade for creating an environment of fake culture wars across the state, while the shortage of healthcare workers, teachers, daycare providers, and prison employees rage on. It’s right out of their playbook to bring attention to marginalized people, like LGBTQ+ students. Book banning, their name preferences, and interfering with the family’s gender affirming healthcare plan is NOW controlled by the government. So much for parent choice! But remember, they do it all in the name of Jesus!

   The cruel theatrics continue as Iowa families need food sources, clean water, and help in covering healthcare costs. Instead, we get reduced SNAP benefits and “downsizing” government offices to “… save Iowa taxpayers money…” It will sure do that Medicaid/Medicare benefits will be even more depleted. We’re even taking money away from the blind and deaf programs! Good Lord!

   I fear the next thing to see while I vacation this summer are bumper stickers throughout the Midwest that say, “Let’s Move to Iowa…Said No One Ever!” Promises of no income tax and tax cuts will not be that impressive while our city and county governments function with limited budgets. You think we have gravel road problems now? Just wait!

   Join me in attending the final legislative forum in the Monticello City Council Chambers on Friday, March 24, at noon. Sen. Koelker and Rep. Bradley need to understand why I’m giving this legislative session a “failing grade” this year.

Mary Melchert

Monticello, Iowa