Capitol Highlights

Greetings from Capitol Hill:
Contested Election: Monday, January 28, 4:30 p.m.
After receiving a report from the Contested Election Committee (CEC), the Iowa House voted to dismiss a contested election for House District 55. The contestant, Kayla Koethers, originally lost to incumbent, Michael Bergen, by nine votes. The CEC, led by Rep. Holt, concluded that the contestation lacked support by Iowa Code 53.17, Iowa Administrative Code 721.21.14(53) and legislative history surrounding the adoption of HF 2273 in 2016.
Rep. Gassman remarked, “Following the rule of law is critical in maintaining the integrity of our voting rights. As legislators, it is our responsibility to ensure voting laws are being followed, even if the results seem unfair. I encourage voters to submit absentee ballots early to help ensure they will be received on time and counted.”
Committee Bills:
Bills moved to subcommittee this week:
HF 136 and 99—Education
HF 87—Economic Growth
HF 117—Local Government

House Study Bills:
Bills moved to subcommittee this week:
HSB 63 and 86—Economic Growth
HSB 79 —Education
Going Forward:
While record low temperatures forced the House to cancel several meetings this week, I still went to work for House District 7. The Education Committee had a productive meeting with the Iowa Department of Education where we discussed budget priorities, Teacher Leadership and Compensation (TLC) , the Early Literacy Initiative (ELI), Future Ready Iowa (FRI), and the Iowa Learning Online (ILO).
It is the direct intent of “Capitol Highlights” to submit an objective, non-partisan report of the bills, and business of the Iowa Legislature.
Rep. Gassman asks that his constituents reach out to him at any time with questions, thoughts, concerns, or ideas at tedd.gassman@legis.iowa.gov or by cell at 515-538-0117.