Legislative News

Dec 28, 2017

Upcoming Events – Sign Up Now

Sign up now for these upcoming ABI public policy events.

Dec 28, 2017

Final Chance for 2017 PAC Contributions

December 31st is your last chance to contribute to IIPAC in 2017.

Dec 28, 2017

2018 Legislative Session Begins January 8

Get ready for the second session of the 87th General Assembly, beginning Monday, January 8.

Dec 28, 2017

Prefiled Bills

Executive branch departments, boards and individual legislators can prefile legislation prior to the opening of the session.

Dec 28, 2017

Congressional Recess

Congress has officially gone on its end-of-the-year recess. 

Dec 21, 2017

Federal Spotlight: Federal Tax Reform Passed

This week the U.S. House and Senate approved the most sweeping reforms to the tax code in over 30 years. 

Dec 21, 2017

Gov. Reynolds Releases Economic Development Roadmap for Bioscience in Iowa

During the administration’s weekly news conference, Gov. Kim Reynolds and Lt. Gov. Adam Gregg released an economic development roadmap for Iowa’s bioscience industry.

Dec 21, 2017

Federal Spotlight: Senate Committee Rejects Nominee to Lead Ex-Im Bank

The Senate Banking Committee declined to advance the nomination of Scott Garrett to lead the Export-Import Bank by a vote of 10-13 on Tuesday.

Dec 21, 2017

Special Election Set

A special election in Iowa State House District 6 has been set by Gov. Reynolds for Tuesday, January 16, 2018.

Dec 14, 2017

New State Senator Elected in Senate District 3

State Representative Jim Carlin (R-Sioux City) defeated Democrat Todd Wendt in a special election for Senate District 3 on Tuesday. 

Dec 14, 2017

Bossman Announces Candidacy for House District 6

With the election of Rep. Carlin to the Iowa Senate, another special election must be called to fill the vacant Iowa House seat.

Dec 14, 2017

Secretary of State Finalizes Rule

The Administrative Rules Review Committee gave the go-ahead Tuesday to the Secretary of State’s business fee increase rule.

Dec 14, 2017

2018 Legislative Session Issue Preview: Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund

Each year ABI works to defend the Unemployment Insurance (UI) Trust Fund, an account funded by employers used to pay unemployment benefits to unemployed Iowa workers who lose their job through no fault of their own.

Dec 14, 2017

Nutrient Reduction Strategy Progress Report Released

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources, the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship and Iowa State University unveiled an annual report of the Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy this week.

Dec 14, 2017

ABI Testifies at Governor’s Budget Hearing

ABI President Mike Ralston testified Tuesday afternoon at Gov. Reynolds’ public budget hearing.

Dec 14, 2017

ABI Attends SBA Meeting with Gov. Reynolds

Wednesday morning, ABI Senior Vice President of Public Policy Nicole Crain had the opportunity to listen to Iowa small businesses share with Gov. Reynolds and Linda McMahon, the Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration, the challenges of doing business. 

Dec 14, 2017

Monthly Members-only Legislative Calls Set for 2018

ABI is pleased to announce we will once again have monthly members-only legislative conference calls while the Legislature is in session. 

Dec 14, 2017

REC Projects Challenges to Fiscal Year 2018

The Revenue Estimating Conference (REC) announced on Monday the Legislature will likely have to cut between $45 million and $90 million for the current fiscal year budget when it reconvenes in January.

Dec 14, 2017

Federal Spotlight: House and Senate Come to Tax Reform Deal

The House and the Senate have come to a preliminary deal on a tax reform package.

Dec 14, 2017

Federal Spotlight: House Introduces ACA Tax Relief Bills

Members of the House Ways and Means Committee introduced multiple bills aimed at delaying the implementation of several of the taxes associated with the Affordable Care Act this week.

Dec 7, 2017

Final 2018 Priority and Policies Now on ABI Website

The Iowa Association of Business and Industry's 2018 priority and policies are now available on ABI's website.

Dec 7, 2017

ABI Policy Staff Prepares for New Session

ABI’s policy staff has been busy out and around the state holding roundtables, meeting with legislators who will be involved in issues of importance to ABI members and meeting with other lobbyists who work closely on ABI legislative topics.

Dec 7, 2017

2018 Legislative Session Issue Preview: Water Quality

This session could see additional action on bills aimed at implementing the nutrient reduction strategy and funding water quality infrastructure.

Dec 7, 2017

Federal Spotlight: ABI Signs Letter in Support of Miscellaneous Tariff Act of 2017

ABI recently added our name to a letter in support of the Miscellaneous Tariff Act of 2017. 

Dec 7, 2017

Invest in the Iowans For Jobs Initiative Today

One way your company can help ABI continue our momentum is by investing in the Iowans For Jobs Initiative. 

Nov 30, 2017

Legislative Roundtable in Fort Dodge on Dec. 12

ABI members are invited to a legislative roundtable in Fort Dodge on Tuesday, Dec.12 at 9:30 a.m.

Nov 30, 2017

ABI Participates in Stakeholder Meeting on Voter Integrity Law

Beginning Jan. 1, 2018, voters will be required to show government-issued identification to vote. 

Nov 30, 2017

2018 Legislative Session Issue Preview: SAVE

School districts that are growing and interested in expanding their facilities want to expand the current statewide penny for another 20 years, as the current law will expire on Jan. 1, 2030.

Nov 30, 2017

Federal Spotlight – Tax Reform Marches Forward

Reports say the bill could be voted on as early as this evening or Fri., Dec. 1.

Nov 22, 2017

ABI Thanks You

As we enter the Thanksgiving holiday, we want to say thank you to each of you for your investment in ABI. 

Nov 22, 2017

Early-bird Registration for Legislative Briefing and Reception Ends Soon

Early-bird registration for the ABI Legislative Briefing and Reception at the Iowa Tap Room ends Dec. 7, 2017.

Nov 22, 2017

Iowa Workforce Development State Board Meets

Monday, the State Workforce Development Board met in Des Moines with Gov. Reynolds and IWD Director Beth Townsend to address the board, which is newly reconstituted to comply with federal workforce law.

Nov 22, 2017

Legislative Roundtables Begin

Nov 16, 2017

Rules Committee Highlights Includes Employment Issues

Several rules important to employers were discussed during the Administrative Rules Review Committee (ARRC) this month. 

Nov 16, 2017

Federal Spotlight – Save Local Business Act Passes the House

The Save Local Business Act passed the House of Representatives by a vote of 242-181 earlier this month. 

Nov 16, 2017

Federal Spotlight – Tax Reform Continues to Advance

The goal is to get bills passed in both chambers, work out the differences in conference committee and then send that final product to President Trump’s desk by the end of the year. 

Nov 16, 2017

Governor Announces Appointments to Boards and Commissions

Several individuals from ABI member companies have been appointed to Iowa boards and commissions.

Nov 16, 2017

Fiscal Year 2019 Budget Hearings Begin

The Reynolds administration began department budget hearings for state fiscal year 2019 this week.

Nov 16, 2017

ABI Members Establish Apprenticeship Programs

During their weekly press conference, Gov. Kim Reynolds and Lt. Gov. Adam Gregg announced that ABI member companies Wells Fargo and Tyson Foods now have registered apprenticeship programs.

Nov 9, 2017

Computer Science Recommendations Released

A group that included legislators, community colleges, college professors, school administrators, teachers, representatives of school boards and technology companies recently released a series of recommendations aimed at enhancing computer science education in school districts across Iowa.

Nov 9, 2017

Apprenticeship Week is Next Week

Registered Apprenticeship Appreciation and Awareness Week will be Nov. 13–17. Gov. Kim Reynolds signed a proclamation on Nov. 2 to highlight the importance of registered apprenticeship training.

Nov 9, 2017

Federal Spotlight – Tax Reform Moves Forward

The House Ways & Means Committee began marking up the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act this week.

Nov 9, 2017

ABI’s Hyland Speaks at Fairfield Conference

ABI Director of Public Policy Jessica Hyland speaks today in Fairfield on a panel regarding economic development and water quality.

Nov 2, 2017

Federal Spotlight – Senate Votes to Rescind Anti-arbitration Rule

The U.S. Senate repealed a rule issued by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) that would have allowed individuals to file class action lawsuits against financial institutions.

Nov 2, 2017

ABI Represented at Regional Chamber Government Relations Meeting

ABI staff member Brad Hartkopf attended a U.S. Chamber of Commerce regional government affairs meeting in Chicago last week. 

Nov 2, 2017

Federal Spotlight – Tax Reform Details Revealed

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act was unveiled on Thursday. 

Nov 2, 2017

Opportunity to Comment on Future Ready Iowa Recommendations

The public has the opportunity to comment on each recommendation.

Nov 2, 2017

Local Elections Tuesday, Nov. 7

Nov 2, 2017

Special Election Set for Senate District 3

Gov. Kim Reynolds announced Wednesday that Tuesday, Dec.12, 2017, would be the date of a special election to fill the seat of Sen. Bill Anderson (R-Pierson). 

Nov 2, 2017

Air Construction Permit Fee Modification

Oct 26, 2017

Iowa Democratic Senate Leadership Change

In a surprise move by the Iowa Senate Democrats on Sunday, a closed-door caucus resulted in a leadership change.

Oct 26, 2017

State Revenue Estimates Revised Downward

The state revenue estimating conference (REC), the three-member panel that meets to project state revenues available for the budgeting process, met last Thursday.

Oct 26, 2017

Work Comp Rules Proposed

Oct 26, 2017

IIPAC Last Call

We need your continued support to protect candidates who took strong stands for Iowa employers and the policies that help bring jobs to Iowa in the last legislative session.

Oct 26, 2017

Iowa Withdraws Stopgap Insurance Measure

Governor Kim Reynolds and Iowa Insurance Division Commissioner Doug Ommen announced Monday the state would withdraw its proposed stopgap plan meant to shore up the individual health insurance market in Iowa.

Oct 26, 2017

Federal Spotlight: Tax Reform Advances

The U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate both passed 2018 budget resolutions this month, which is the first step in the process of passing comprehensive tax reform.

Oct 19, 2017

Future Ready Iowa Alliance Releases Recommendations

Members of the Future Ready Iowa Alliance, co-chaired by Gov. Kim Reynolds and Principal CEO Dan Houston, met Tuesday, Oct. 17 to discuss and vote on final recommendations. 

Oct 19, 2017

Gov. Reynolds Appointed to Apprenticeship Task Force

U.S. Secretary of Labor Alexander Acosta announced on Monday that Gov. Kim Reynolds has been appointed to serve on President Trump's Task Force on Apprenticeship Expansion.

Oct 19, 2017

ABI Input on Secretary of State Administrative Rule Results in Amendments

The Secretary of State proposed rule amendments to accommodate ABI's concerns. 

Oct 19, 2017

Opioid Study Committee Meets; Expect Legislative Action

A two-day legislative opioid epidemic evaluation interim study committee met this week to examine the state's opioid crisis. 

Oct 19, 2017

Local Elections on November 7

On Tuesday, Nov. 7, Iowa voters will go to the polls and elect municipal representation. 

Oct 19, 2017

IIPAC Investments Due in Two Weeks

Friday, Nov. 3 is the deadline to make contributions to IIPAC and have your name included on the list of investors printed in ABI's 2018 Business Resource Guide. 

Oct 12, 2017

ABI Testifies at Secretary of State Rule Meeting

Jessica Harder, director of public policy for ABI, testified Tuesday at the Administrative Rules Review Committee (ARRC).

Oct 12, 2017

Iowans for Jobs Initiative Has Record of Success

Each week ABI provides an update in its e-newsletter about public policy efforts.

Oct 12, 2017

Registration Open November 2 for Environment Committee Meeting

The next ABI Environment Committee meeting is slated for November 2 and registration is open now. 

Oct 12, 2017

Administrative Rules Committee Considers New Fees for Employer Misclassification

The Iowa Department of Workforce Development has been working to update its administrative rules and has brought many rules packages before the Administrative Rules Review Committee (ARRC) during the interim.

Oct 12, 2017

Iowa’s STEM Efforts Recognized in Recent Evaluation

Gov. Reynolds and Lt. Gov. Gregg recently unveiled the results of the Science Technology Engineering and Math (STEM) Council’s annual evaluation, which measures the council’s efforts in boosting education that will enhance economic development across Iowa. 

Oct 12, 2017

Now Open: ABI Legislative Reception Registration

One of the first events of the legislative session will take place on January 10, 2018 at 4:00 p.m. 

Oct 12, 2017

Federal Spotlight – EPA Withdrawing the Clean Power Plan

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Scott Pruitt announced on Monday the agency would be rescinding the Clean Power Plan.

Oct 12, 2017

Manufacturing Day a Success

President Donald Trump signed a proclamation last Friday officially declaring October 6th as Manufacturing Day. 

Oct 5, 2017

Secretary of State Announces Business Fast Track Filing System

In last week’s newsletter you read about the Secretary of State’s rule proposal to increase business fees.

Oct 5, 2017

Interim Study Committee on Opioid Epidemic to Meet

Members of ABI’s Workplace and Product Safety Committee added policy the last two years during the policy development process to address the opioid epidemic taking place around the country and specifically in Iowa.

Oct 5, 2017

Voter Registration Week Over, Early Voting Begins

Early voting in Iowa for local elections is about to begin. Like school board elections, at times it is difficult to find information out about who is running. 

Oct 5, 2017

IIPAC Directory Deadline is October 6

IIPAC is about to launch the fall campaign where we will make one last push for much-needed PAC dollars prior to the year’s end.

Sep 28, 2017

Secretary of State Proposes Rules to Increase Business Fees

The latest Iowa Administrative Bulletin was published on Wednesday. It includes a proposed administrative rule that would significantly increase a number of fees businesses pay to the Secretary of State’s office. 

Sep 28, 2017

Broad Federal Tax Reform Framework Unveiled

With the lack of progress on health care reform, Congress and the Trump Administration officially moved forward this week by unveiling a unified framework for federal tax reform Wednesday. 

Sep 28, 2017

ABI D.C. Fly-in Next Week

Next week, October 2-4, key ABI members, ABI President Mike Ralston, and the ABI public policy team head to the nation’s capital to meet with our congressional leaders, the Administration and national public policy partners.

Sep 28, 2017

Federal Spotlight: The White House Announces New STEM Initiatives

President Donald Trump has signed a memorandum that orders the Department of Education to allocate at least $200 million dollars into grant funding each year for new Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) and computer science education initiatives. 

Sep 28, 2017

No Special Session Required for Fiscal Year 2017

Officials with the Reynolds Administration announced last Wednesday there will be no need to call lawmakers back to Des Moines for a special legislative session to address the 2017 fiscal year budget. 

Sep 21, 2017

2018 Legislative Priority: Workforce

ABI public policy staff unveiled the 2018 Legislative Priority at the Advanced Manufacturing Conference Wednesday.

Sep 21, 2017

Senator Bill Anderson Resigning from Iowa Senate

State Senator Bill Anderson (R-Pierson) has said he will resign his seat in the very near future to take a job running the Cherokee Area Economic Development Corporation.

Sep 21, 2017

Senator Robert Dvorsky Not Seeking Re-election in 2018

State Senator Robert Dvorsky (D-Coralville) has announced that he will not pursue re-election in 2018. He is retiring to spend more time with his kids and to travel.

Sep 21, 2017

Environmental Protection Commission Met this Week

Brad Hartkopf, ABI public policy coordinator, attended a meeting of the Environmental Protection Commission held this week at the Capitol. 

Sep 21, 2017

Federal Spotlight: Health Care Reform Not Dead Yet

Efforts are underway to make one last push to replace the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

Sep 21, 2017

Opportunity: Small Business Clean Air Act Compliance Panel

According to a press release from the Department of Natural Resources, the State of Iowa is seeking small business owners and other individuals to serve on the Clean Air Act Compliance Advisory Panel (CAP).

Sep 14, 2017

ABI Board Approves Legislative Policies

The ABI board on Wednesday approved the 2018 policies and priorities for the association. More than 200 members and 120 different companies participated in the public policy development process.

Sep 14, 2017

Director Durham to Speak at Advanced Manufacturing Conference

Debi Durham, Director of the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA), will speak at the Advanced Manufacturing Conference on Wednesday, September 20. 

Sep 14, 2017

Administrative Rules Review Committee Meets

The Administrative Rules Review Committee met on Tuesday and discussed several rules that ABI is tracking.

Sep 14, 2017

Audit of Workforce Development Finds Deficiencies

The Office of Auditor of State recently conducted an audit of the Iowa Workforce Development Department and made recommendations the department should follow to enhance efficiencies in the department. 

Sep 14, 2017

Federal Spotlight: ABI Participates in Call with U.S. Senator Jeff Flake

Brad Hartkopf, ABI’s Public Policy Coordinator, participated in a “Qwik Chat” sponsored by BIPAC that featured United States Senator Jeff Flake (R-AZ) this past Tuesday. 

Sep 7, 2017

Reminder: School Board Elections Tuesday, September 12

On Tuesday, September 12, all Iowans will have the opportunity to go to the polls between 7:00 am and 8:00 pm to vote for who they want to represent them on the local school boards. 

Sep 7, 2017

ABI Environment Committee to Host EPA Region VII Acting Administrator in November

ABI’s Environment Committee is one of the largest and most active policy committees. Plan ahead to attend the next ABI Environment Committee meeting on Thursday, November 2, in Des Moines. 

Sep 7, 2017

2018 Session Timetable Released

The 2018, 100-day session will begin January 8 and is slated to end April 17.

Sep 7, 2017

Federal Spotlight: Overtime Rule Struck Down in Court

A federal judge in Texas recently invalidated a Department of Labor overtime rule that would have been a tremendous burden to small businesses.

Sep 7, 2017

Federal Spotlight: Employer Pay Data Reporting Requirement Halted

The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has put a halt to revisions made under the Obama administration to the EEO-1 form.

Sep 7, 2017

Third Quarter IIPAC Newsletter Released

The publication, exclusive to IIPAC investors, includes information and insight about candidates in the first congressional district and a state political update. 

Aug 31, 2017

It’s Official - Work Comp rates to decrease 8.7 percent January 1st

Iowa Insurance Commissioner Doug Ommen recently approved a rate filing by the National Council on Compensation Insurance that will decrease workers’ compensation premiums by an average of 8.7% starting next year.

Aug 31, 2017

Switch to W-2 filing extended

Aug 31, 2017

Federal Spotlight - Deputy Administrator Named for EPA Region 7

The Trump Administration has announced that Cathy Stepp will be named principal deputy administrator for the Environmental Protection Agency Region 7 office in Kansas City.

Aug 31, 2017

Employee Voter Registration Week 2017

Once again, ABI is partnering with BIPAC to provide members with resources during Employee Voter Registration Week (EVRW). EVRW is September 25-29 and a great opportunity for you to reach out to your employees and encourage them to vote.

Aug 31, 2017

David Hildahl to join ABI as Communications Coordinator

ABI has completed its search for a new Communications Coordinator. David Hildahl will be join the association in that role. David’s first day in the office will be this Friday, September 1.

Aug 24, 2017

Legislative Policy Committee Meetings Conclude

ABI’s annual legislative policy committee meetings for it’s five policy committees--Economic Growth, Workplace and Product Safety, Environment, Tax, and Employment and Workforce--met during the last two weeks to review ABI’s legislative policies and discuss ABI’s priorities for the 2018 legislative session.

Aug 24, 2017

2018 Gubernatorial update - who’s in, who’s out?

Several candidates have announced campaigns for Iowa’s 2018 Gubernatorial race. Though we are still 10 months from the primary, multiple candidates have either dropped out or have jumped in since our last update.

Aug 24, 2017

Iowa School Board Elections Coming Up

Don’t forget to vote in your local school board elections coming up Tuesday, September 12th! Polls open at 7 a.m. and close at 8 p.m.

Aug 24, 2017

Employer Unemployment Insurance Taxes to Decrease Next Year

The Department of Workforce Development recently announced that beginning on January 1, Iowa employers can expect to see their unemployment insurance taxes decline on an average of 25 percent on 2018 wages.

Aug 24, 2017

Federal Spotlight: Action Alert - Submit WOTUS Comments

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is currently accepting comments as the agency is in the process of rewriting the 2015 Water of the United States rule.

Aug 17, 2017

Federal Spotlight: ABI joins national tax reform letter

ABI has signed on to a letter sent to Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin that encourages pro-growth tax reform to be enacted at the federal level. 

Aug 17, 2017

Federal Spotlight: Iowa officials hold town hall meetings

ABI members are fortunate to have local, state and federal elected officials who want to hear from employers. This month, members of Iowa’s Congressional delegation are back in the state for August recess.

Aug 17, 2017

Take Action: Help support the Iowa biodiesel industry

The EPA recently proposed no increase in the 2019 Biomass-Based Diesel volume and  reduced the 2018 Advanced Biofuel volume by 40 million gallons under the federal Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). The biomass-based diesel industry is at a critical time and the recent EPA Renewable Volume Obligation (RVO) was a new blow to growth.

Aug 17, 2017

ABI member participation needed: Iowa Workforce Development Board

Aug 17, 2017

Make your voice heard

ABI’s PAC, IIPAC has not yet met the fundraising goal for 2017. Please consider donating to IIPAC today.

Aug 17, 2017

Proposed workers’ compensation rates decrease for 2018

The Iowa Insurance Division recently provided notice of an additional reduction in workers’ compensation premiums by 8.7%. The reduction is for voluntary and assigned risks beginning on January 1, 2018 for new and renewal policies. 

Aug 10, 2017

Federal Spotlight: EPA Administrator and Secretary of Agriculture visit Iowa

In the last week, several Trump Administration officials have visited Iowa. Last weekend, Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue was in Iowa for the Iowa Agriculture Summit and toured ABI member company Sukup Manufacturing. 

Aug 10, 2017

Phil Miller wins special election for Iowa House seat

On Tuesday, August 8 voters in Iowa House District 82 went to the polls. The district, which includes communities in Jefferson, Davis and Van Buren counties, elected Democrat Phil Miller to serve out the remaining term of the late Curt Hanson.

Aug 10, 2017

Administrative Rules Review Committee approves two key rules

This summer, ABI public policy staff has been busy reviewing state agency rules. Each month the legislative Administrative Rules Review Committee (ARRC) meets to discuss and take action on proposed rules.

Aug 10, 2017

Policy meetings kick off Tuesday

A record number of ABI members have registered to attend the public policy committee meetings which begin next week. The meetings are a critical piece of developing the 2018 policy priorities for the association. 

Aug 2, 2017

Special election for Iowa House District 82 Tuesday

ABI members in the southeast Iowa counties of Jefferson, Davis and Van Buren, including the communities of Fairfield, Bloomfield, Keosauqua and smaller communities will have the opportunity to cast a ballot in the special election on Tuesday, August 8.

Aug 2, 2017

Federal spotlight: ABI joins NAFTA support letters

Representatives of Canada, Mexico and the United States are set to meet in Washington, D.C. on August 16th to begin the first of seven rounds of talks to discuss renegotiating the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). The ability to export products from Iowa to other countries is a key part of Iowa’s manufacturing and agricultural economies.

Aug 2, 2017

Employee Voter Registration Week 2017

ABI has resources and tips to help your company participate in Employee Voter Registration Week (EVRW), September 25-29. EVRW is a weeklong, nationwide effort to increase voter participation among private employees in the U.S.

Aug 2, 2017

Learn more: Iowans for Jobs Initiative

The Iowans for Jobs Initiative (IFJI) is the public policy education arm of the Iowa Association of Business and Industry. The goal of the non-partisan Iowans for Jobs Initiative is to advocate and educate about the importance of pro-jobs, pro-business legislation for all Iowans. 

Aug 2, 2017

Another local election: Dallas County Supervisors set date for vote

Between now and November 2017, there will be many special elections held in addition to school board and municipal elections. 

Jul 27, 2017

Iowa Senators review pension system

As a legislative pension year approaches, a group of Senators met Tuesday, July 25 to hear about the status of the Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS), which is the pension system for most state employees. Donna Mueller, the CEO of the system gave an overview of the history of IPERS and some of the market driven and legislative changes that have taken place to IPERS. 

Jul 27, 2017

Air Quality fee stakeholder meetings conclude

ABI participated in a series of air quality stakeholder meetings that concluded Tuesday. The meetings were designed to address the topic of funding shortfalls at the air bureau.

Jul 27, 2017

Reminder: Sign up for upcoming annual policy committee meetings

Each year ABI holds a series of important public policy meetings where members can review ABI’s legislative policies and priorities in light of legislative accomplishments from the previous session and give input into what ABI’s policies and priorities should be going forward. 

Jul 27, 2017

Federal Spotlight: Department of Labor issues Request for Information

The Department of Labor has issued a Request for Information (RFI) on the Obama Administration’s Overtime rule, which was finalized last year but was stayed by a federal judge in Texas shortly before it was to go into effect.

Jul 27, 2017

Federal Spotlight: House votes to repeal arbitration rule

The House of Representatives voted on Tuesday to strike down a ruling issued by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) that eliminated the option of arbitration for businesses and consumers.

Jul 20, 2017

Federal Spotlight: Oppose Export-Import Bank nominee

President Trump’s selection of former U.S. Rep. Scott Garrett of New Jersey to lead the Export-Import Bank is drawing criticism from manufacturers and influential business organizations.

Jul 20, 2017

Federal Spotlight: Made in America week celebrated at the White House

President Donald Trump is celebrating products manufactured in the country with a Made in America week at the White House.

Jul 20, 2017

Focus on ABI Policy Committees: Economic Growth

Jul 20, 2017

Air Quality Bureau stakeholder meetings continue

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Air Quality Bureau has been holding a series of day-long stakeholder meetings to discuss the bureau’s budget deficit, permit fees and efficiencies within the department.

Jul 20, 2017

Make an impact

We need you to join hundreds of your business peers to amplify the voice of Iowa business.

Jul 20, 2017

Participation opportunity: Board of Regents announces tuition task force meetings

The Board of Regents Tuition Task Force has announced dates and times for four public stakeholder meetings.

Jul 13, 2017

State revenue challenges continue

The state may have to cut another $104 million from the 2017 fiscal year budget according to a new report recently released by the Legislative Services Agency.

Jul 13, 2017

Collective bargaining reforms continue to take effect

The Iowa Legislature enacted sweeping reforms to the collective bargaining process for most public sector unions during the 2017 legislative session.

Jul 13, 2017

Federal Spotlight: Senate August recess shortened due to health care debate

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) announced this week that the Senate would remain in session going into the month of August to continue work on health care reform. 

Jul 13, 2017

Federal Spotlight: Congressional officials visit Iowa manufacturers

Congress was in recess last week, and during that time Iowa’s Congressional delegation visited business leaders and manufacturers to hear about challenges companies face and answer questions about pending legislation.

Jul 13, 2017

Committee Spotlight: Tax

Leading up to our ABI policy committee meetings in late summer, we will highlight each of ABI’s five policy committees, so you know more about the mission and purview of each. 

Jul 13, 2017

Feedback requested on streamlining regulations

The ABI policy team is always looking for ways we can help advocate for Iowa member companies with the Legislature and on the regulatory front.

Jul 6, 2017

Rulemaking process in full swing

Several legislative proposals that passed during the 2017 session now require new administrative rules by state agencies, and ABI's public policy staff is closely monitoring and participating in the rulemaking process.

Jul 6, 2017

Committee Spotlight: Environment

Jul 6, 2017

Leopold and Matson drop out of gubernatorial race

Rich Leopold and Mike Matson have both recently ended their campaigns for the Democratic nomination for governor. There are still at least seven candidates who have declared or are exploring a run for the Democratic nomination for governor.

Jul 6, 2017

EMS industry group workshop scheduled for July 19

The Department of Natural Resources will host an EMS industry group workshop on July 19, titled "EMS In Depth: Nonconformity, Corrective & Preventive Actions and Transitioning your ISO EMS to the 2015 Standard."

Jun 29, 2017

Keep up the momentum and donate to IIPAC by the June 30 deadline

With a historic legislative session completed, ABI is working to sustain our momentum and grow on the the sound policy reforms and savings Iowa employers gained in 2017.

Jun 29, 2017

New laws go into effect Saturday, July 1

Each year the Iowa Legislature passes hundreds of pieces of legislation. Some of the reforms advocated for by ABI are already in effect, but you will see several new laws go into effect on Saturday, July 1 that will affect how you do business.

Jun 29, 2017

Jon Jacobsen wins House District 22 special election

Jon Jacobsen emerged victorious in a special election Tuesday to serve out the remainder of the late Rep. Greg Forristall's term representing Iowa House District 22.

Jun 29, 2017

Federal Spotlight: Senate GOP unveils health care overhaul legislation

U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) released a draft of the Senate GOP's replacement plan for the Affordable Care Act (ACA) last week.

Jun 29, 2017

Federal Spotlight: EPA begins rescinding Waters of the United States rule

In a victory for businesses, farmers and other landowners, Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Scott Pruitt announced Tuesday that the EPA and the Army Corp of Engineers would begin the process of repealing the 2015 Clean Water rule, also known as Waters of the United States.

Jun 22, 2017

Committee spotlight: Employment and Workforce

Leading up to our ABI policy committee meetings in late summer, we will highlight each of ABI’s five policy committees, so you know more about the mission and purview of each committee. These committees steer the direction of ABI’s policy agenda each legislative session.

Jun 22, 2017

ABI participates in DNR meetings

Members of the ABI public policy staff participated in several meetings related to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) this week.

Jun 22, 2017

ABI members meet with Congressman Young, President Trump

ABI members joined representatives from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce to recognize U.S. Rep. David Young of Van Meter with a Spirit of Enterprise Award.

Jun 22, 2017

Rep. Hanson dies; special election scheduled

State Rep. Curt Hanson (D-Fairfield) died Friday, June 16. He was 73. Hansen had served in the Iowa House since 2009 and has been a resident of Fairfield for 52 years.

Jun 22, 2017

Federal Spotlight: Townsend attends apprenticeship discussion at White House

Iowa Workforce Development Director Beth Townsend attended a roundtable discussion at the White House last Thursday to discussing expanding registered apprenticeship programs.

Jun 22, 2017

IIPAC needs your commitment

ABI’s advocacy efforts this session resulted in historic results for Iowa employers.

Jun 15, 2017

Join ABI and the U.S. Chamber at Rep. Young Spirit of Enterprise event

ABI, along with the U.S. Chamber, will host U.S. Rep. David Young of Van Meter on Monday, June 19, for a special awards ceremony.

Jun 15, 2017

The state faces another budget shortfall for fiscal year 2017

With two weeks left in the state fiscal year, Gov. Kim Reynolds announced Tuesday that Iowa will borrow up to $50 million from the Economic Emergency Fund to head off another shortfall for the current fiscal year.

Jun 15, 2017

Directors Durham and Townsend to address ABI policy committees

Registration is open for ABI’s public policy committee meetings that will be held in August.

Jun 15, 2017

Interim legislative study committees announced

Legislative study committees that meet between legislative sessions have been announced for 2017.

Jun 15, 2017

Federal spotlight: BAAD Tax Coalition

A broad coalition of businesses and trade associations around the country is working to defeat any proposal from Congress that would increase taxes on advertising.

Jun 15, 2017

Federal Spotlight - Department of Labor rescinds two rules

Secretary of Labor Alexander Acosta has rescinded two burdensome rules in a victory for manufacturers.

Jun 1, 2017

Gov. Reynolds, Lt. Gov.Gregg to speak at ABI Conference

Jun 1, 2017

Last chance: Northeast Iowa Regional Policy Meeting

The final regional meeting will be Tuesday, June 6 at 8:30 a.m. at the Grand River Center in Dubuque.

Jun 1, 2017

Public Policy Committee Spotlight: Workplace and Product Safety

ABI’s five public policy committees will meet in August to set priorities for the 2018 legislative session. Watch for profiles on each committee in the coming weeks to learn more about the mission and purview of each one.

Jun 1, 2017

ABI to participate in DNR workgroup on proposed fees

Members of ABI’s Environment Committee held a special conference call last week to discuss potential ABI participation in stakeholder meetings proposed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR)  to address the funding of the air quality bureau.

Jun 1, 2017

Planning for D.C. trip well underway

The agenda is coming together for ABI’s biannual Washington, D.C. trip.

Jun 1, 2017

Nominees chosen for special election in House District 22

Jun 1, 2017

Federal Spotlight: President’s budget includes employer provided paid family leave

President Donald Trump recently released his budget for fiscal year 2018. It proposes many policy objectives to boost the economy, provide long term stability concerning U.S. debt and deficits, and strengthening the military.

May 25, 2017

Gov. Reynolds takes oath of office, sets priorities

Terry Branstad on Wednesday formally resigned his role as Iowa governor and took an oath to serve as U.S. ambassador to China. Kim Reynolds was then sworn in as Iowa’s 43rd governor.

May 25, 2017

Adam Gregg appointed acting lt. governor

Gov. Kim Reynolds on Thursday appointed Adam Gregg as acting lieutenant governor.

May 25, 2017

Final Regional Policy meeting is June 6 in Dubuque

The ABI public policy team is hosting its final Regional Public Policy Meeting on Tuesday, June 6 in Dubuque, ahead of the annual Taking Care of Business Conference.

May 25, 2017

Workforce Development drafts unemployment rules

Iowa Workforce Development has drafted rules to implement legislation passed in 2017.

May 25, 2017

Federal Spotlight: ABI member testifies in support of tax reform

David Farr, chairman of ABI member company Emerson, testified before the House Ways & Means Committee last week in support of tax reform.

May 25, 2017

Federal Spotlight: Branstad confirmed as Ambassador to China

The U.S. Senate on Monday confirmed former Iowa Gov. Terry Branstad’s appointment to become U.S. ambassador to China.

May 25, 2017

Sad weekend in Iowa politics

Iowa has lost two great public servants.

May 18, 2017

Register Now: Regional meeting in Sioux City, May 24

If you haven’t participated in a Regional Public Policy Meeting, there’s still time. Join us for the Sioux City regional meeting on May 24.

May 18, 2017

2017 legislative action concludes

Action on the 2017 legislative session officially came to a close last Friday. Gov. Terry Branstad finalized action on all legislation, including budget bills that totaled $7.2 billion in spending for fiscal year 2018, which begins July 1, 2017.

May 18, 2017

State Rep. Forristall dies at age 67

Rep. Greg Forristall (R-Macedonia) died last week due to complications from cancer. Rep. Forristall was serving his sixth term in the Iowa House representing District 22 and was vice chair of the Education Committee.

May 18, 2017

Feedback requested: Department of Transportation proposes rule changes

The DOT is conducting a required five-year review of all of its administrative rule chapters and seeking feedback on Iowa DOT Administrative Rule Chapter 20, which pertains to procurement of equipment, materials, supplies and services.

May 18, 2017

Registration Open: August public policy meetings

Registration is open for ABI’s annual public policy committee meetings, which will take place in August.

May 18, 2017

Federal Spotlight: Congress readies action on career and technical education bill

Congressmen Glenn Thompson (R-PA) and Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) have introduced the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act.

May 11, 2017

Workplace safety and economic development bills signed into law

Gov. Terry Branstad has 30 days to review the bills that were approved by the Legislature in the final days of the 2017 session. The governor must take action on all bills by April 22. Although the budget bills have yet to be signed into law, Gov. Branstad did sign several pieces of legislation this week, including a few that ABI supported.

May 11, 2017

Get ready for ABI’s DC fly in

ABI’s public policy team is busy planning a packed agenda for the fall D.C. fly in, a benefit exclusive to ABI members.

May 11, 2017

ABI will host Regional Public Policy Meeting in Sioux City May 24

If you have not yet participated in a regional meeting, you have one more opportunity to do so. ABI will host a meeting at the Siouxland Chamber of Commerce offices on Wednesday, May 24.

May 11, 2017

Election Update: Iowa Democratic field for governor expands

With more than a year until the June 2018 primary, the Democratic field for the party’s nomination for governor continues to expand.

May 11, 2017

Time is running out to be recognized at ABI’s annual conference

Many of you give generously year after year to ABI’s political action committee, IIPAC. If you haven’t had done so this year, now is the time to donate. ABI is hosting exclusive events for Gold and Platinum IIPAC investors at next month’s ABI conference that you will not want to miss.

May 11, 2017

Federal Spotlight: Foreign Relations Committee approves Branstad

May 4, 2017

Des Moines and Atlantic public policy meetings on May 9

The ABI public policy team will be in Des Moines and Atlantic on Tuesday, May 9, to provide a comprehensive review of the 2017 legislative session and begin discussions on priorities for the next year.

May 4, 2017

Make your IIPAC contribution now to be recognized at ABI conference

Show off your commitment to fostering a pro-growth economy in Iowa during the upcoming Taking Care of Business Conference.

May 4, 2017

ABI’s digital success on display at Ready to Run seminar

ABI Communications Director Emily Schettler spoke about ABI’s success in digital marketing and offered advice on social media use during a recent Ready to Run event hosted by the Carrie Chapman Catt Center for Women in Politics at Iowa State University.

May 4, 2017

Federal Spotlight: House to vote on American Health Care Act today

The U.S. House of Representatives is set to vote on a repeal and replacement of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) today. The American Health Care Act, crafted by Republicans, will bring many changes to the health care system.

May 4, 2017

Federal Spotlight: Governor Branstad one step closer to China

Gov. Terry Branstad traveled to Washington this week for a committee hearing concerning his nomination as U.S Ambassador to China.

May 4, 2017

Workers’ compensation rates decrease due to reform legislation

The National Council on Compensation Insurance this week proposed lowering the workers’ compensation rate in Iowa.

Apr 27, 2017

Branstad, Reynolds announce ‘Year of Manufacturing’

Gov. Terry Branstad and Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds held a press conference Monday to declare 2017 as the “Year of Manufacturing” in Iowa. ABI is proud to partner with the Center for Industrial Research and Service (CIRAS) at Iowa State University and the Iowa Economic Development Authority to spearhead the effort.

Apr 27, 2017

Learn about EPA compliance at upcoming DNR workshop

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is hosting a workshop May 11 about EPA compliance tools and how to avoid common Clean Water Act violations.

Apr 27, 2017

Help sustain ABI's legislative success with a contribution to IIPAC

Help ABI build upon its 2017 legislative successes with a personal contribution to IIPAC.

Apr 27, 2017

Federal Spotlight: President reveals tax reform plan

President Donald Trump unveiled his comprehensive tax reform plan this week.

Apr 27, 2017

Learn about EPA compliance at upcoming DNR workshop

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is hosting a workshop May 11 about EPA compliance tools and how to avoid common Clean Water Act violations.

Apr 22, 2017

Sine Die: ABI Session Wrap-Up

The Iowa Legislature  adjourned the 2017 session sine die at 7:16 a.m. on Saturday, April 22 after a nearly 24-hour push to wrap things up (the Iowa House convened at 8:37 on Friday morning).

The Legislature, controlled by Republicans in the Iowa House and Senate, passed several landmark pieces of legislation. From the beginning, the Iowa Association of Business and Industry worked closely with lawmakers to promote policies important to our members, and this legislative session will go down as one of the most pro-business, pro-jobs years in recent history. ABI registered on more than 300 bills during the legislative session.

Apr 20, 2017

Legislature races for finish

Tuesday was the 100th day of the 2017 legislative session and the target adjournment date. Although the Legislature didn’t end Tuesday, all signs are pointing to adjournment in the coming days.

Apr 20, 2017

Join ABI’s final legislative teleconference April 28

The end of session legislative teleconference is Friday, April 28. This call will include a comprehensive look at what happened in the final weeks of session.

Apr 20, 2017

Sign up now for a Regional Public Policy Meeting

The ABI public policy team will travel the state next month to offer an in-depth review of ABI priorities that advanced during the 2017 legislation session.

Apr 20, 2017

Join environmental professionals at MECC conference

ABI is once again partnering with the Midwest Environmental Compliance Conference (MECC) to bring members a regional event geared toward professional development and updates on the environmental regulatory climate in EPA Region VII.

Apr 20, 2017

Tax credit bill advances

Apr 20, 2017

Water quality proposals advance

The House and Senate both advanced legislation this week to implement Iowa’s nutrient reduction strategy.

Apr 13, 2017

Legislative focus shifts to budget as the 100th day nears

Tuesday, April 18, is the 100th day of the legislative session and the final day Iowa legislators will receive per diem for their time at the Capitol.

Apr 13, 2017

Governor signs 30 bills this week

his week, Gov. Branstad signed several more pieces of legislation that will encourage growth in the private sector and increase competition among government construction projects.

Apr 13, 2017

Federal Spotlight: Iowa’s federal elected officials hold district meetings

Congress is on recess until April 24, and during this time, Iowa’s delegation is back in the state meeting with constituents.

Apr 13, 2017

Legislation moving forward

As the end of session approaches, bills continue to move through the legislative process. The following bills saw action this week.

Apr 13, 2017

Tax credit overhaul expected to move forward Thursday

Apr 6, 2017

Workers’ compensation bill signed into law, goes into effect July 1

Apr 6, 2017

Iowa Legislature releases joint budget targets

The chairs of the House and Senate Appropriations committees have released joint budget targets for the 2018 state budget, which begins July 1, 2017. The budget includes more than $7 billion in spending.

Apr 6, 2017

Workforce Development bills head to Gov. Branstad

Bills continue to move at the Capitol as we enter what is expected to be the home stretch of the legislative session.

Apr 6, 2017

Other key legislation moving forward

In addition to the workforce legislation that advanced this week, several other pro-jobs and workplace safety bills passed this week.

Apr 6, 2017

Registration is open for 2017 regional public policy meetings

The ABI public policy team has scheduled four regional public policy meetings across Iowa next month to speak with members about the 2017 legislative session and get feedback on priorities for 2018.

Apr 6, 2017

ABI publishes IIPAC Annual Report for 2015-16

Apr 6, 2017

Federal Spotlight: President signs bill disallowing OSHA regulations

President Trump on Tuesday signed a bill disallowing OSHA regulations that were contrary to statute and expanded the period during which employers would be at risk of penalties for OSHA reporting errors.

Apr 6, 2017

House Appropriations subcommittee advances tax credit legislation

Mar 30, 2017

Workers’ compensation passes Iowa Senate, to be signed by governor

Mar 30, 2017

Thank your legislators for supporting workers’ compensation bill

The passage of workers’ compensation reform (HF 518) is a major legislative accomplishment for ABI members, and it couldn’t have happened without our allies in the Iowa Legislature. It is important to thank them for their support of this and other ABI priorities.

Mar 30, 2017

Statewide employment uniformity legislation passes Senate

Mar 30, 2017

Join us Friday for monthly teleconference

The next members-only legislative update teleconference will take place Friday at 8 a.m.

Mar 30, 2017

Workforce Development bills advance

The Senate Labor Committee on Wednesday advanced three bills filed by Iowa Workforce Development.

Mar 30, 2017

Funnel week status report

Tomorrow marks the second funnel deadline for the Iowa Legislature. Most bills must have passed out of one chamber and a committee in the other chamber to remain eligible for debate. Bills that go through the Ways & Means, Appropriations and Government Oversight committees are exempt from funnel deadlines. Here is a list of bills important to Iowa businesses that are still alive.

Mar 30, 2017

ABI’s Nicole Crain and Jessica Harder to speak at Iowa Employment Conference

Next week, two members of ABI’s public policy team will speak at the Iowa Employment Conference in Altoona.

Mar 30, 2017

Federal Spotlight: President Trump signs executive order addressing Clean Power Plan

Mar 30, 2017

Governor Branstad revises budget estimates

The final weeks of the 2017 legislative session will focus on passing a balanced budget.

Mar 30, 2017

Make your IIPAC contribution today

Mar 23, 2017

Legislators consider tax credit caps

Rep. Pat Grassley (R-New Hartford) introduced legislation last week that would limit the amount of tax credits available to individuals and corporations.

Mar 23, 2017

Workers’ Comp Watch

At the time of this newsletter, the Iowa Senate has yet to take up the workers’ compensation reform bill. The legislation is on the Senate debate calendar and could be taken up at any time.

Mar 23, 2017

Unemployment bills pass the House

Creating a more competitive business climate is a priority for ABI this legislative session. Two pro-jobs bills advanced out of the House this week.

Mar 23, 2017

Water quality legislation passes House Ways and Means Committee

Mar 23, 2017

Workforce development conformity bill advances

Mar 23, 2017

Statute of repose heads to Gov. Branstad’s desk

Mar 23, 2017

Funnel Watch: Other bills moving forward

Most bills need to have passed one chamber and a committee in the other chamber by March 31 in order to remain alive this session.

Mar 23, 2017

State launches STEM pre-apprenticeship model

Gov. Terry Branstad’s weekly press conference centered around Iowa’s STEM initiative and a new Quality Pre-Apprenticeship model program at four Iowa schools.

Mar 23, 2017

Federal Spotlight: BIPAC offers daily political insight

ABI is the state deployment partner for the Business Industry Political Action Committee (BIPAC).

Mar 16, 2017

Iowa Business Day on the Hill a success

Business leaders from across Iowa gathered Tuesday to celebrate Iowa Business Day on the Hill.

Mar 16, 2017

Revenue Estimating Conference projects lower revenue

The Revenue Estimating Conference (REC) on Tuesday delivered a grim report on revenue projections for the fiscal year 2017, which ends June 30, 2017, and fiscal year 2018, which begins July 1.

Mar 16, 2017

Bill to limit tax credits proposed

Mar 16, 2017

Tort reform heads to the Gov. Branstad’s desk

Legislation addressing tort reform continues to move through the legislative process.

Mar 16, 2017

Funnel Watch: Bills receive consideration two weeks from deadline

Several bills were considered on the floors of the House and Senate this week as legislators continue thier work with two weeks until the next funnel deadline.

Mar 16, 2017

Federal Spotlight: Administration seeks input from manufacturers

The U.S. Department of Commerce is seeking feedback from manufacturers on unnecessary burdens caused by federal permitting and regulatory requirements.

Mar 16, 2017

ABI Top Priority Workers’ Compensation bill debated today

The Iowa House is currently debating HF 518, which makes changes to Iowa’s workers’ compensation law. This is ABI’s top priority for 2017, and we are one step closer to seeing this significant bill get enacted.

Mar 9, 2017

Last chance: Register for Tuesday’s Iowa Business Day on Hill

Iowa Business Day on the Hill is less than one week away and time to register is running out.

Mar 9, 2017

Iowa businesses advocate for workers’ comp reform, debate expected soon

Mar 9, 2017

Tort reform moving forward

The Iowa Legislature considered several bills this week related to tort reform. Making sure Iowa’s legal system is fair is part of the competitive business climate priority for ABI in 2017. Two key bills were statute of repose and asbestos claims.

Mar 9, 2017

Gov. Branstad’s computer science education bill passes the Senate

A bill meant to encourage schools at all levels to provide and promote computer science education passed the Iowa Senate unanimously with a 49-0 vote on Tuesday.

Mar 9, 2017

Revenue Estimating Conference meets Tuesday

The Revenue Estimating Conference will meet Tuesday, March 14, to look at the state’s financial picture from the last quarter and estimate what the finances will look like for state fiscal year 2018, which begins July 1, 2017.

Mar 9, 2017

House Appropriations and Ways & Means committees discuss tax credits at joint meeting

Members of the Iowa House Appropriations and Ways & Means committees met jointly Wednesday to hear a tax credit presentation from the Legislative Services Agency.

Mar 9, 2017

Federal Spotlight: Federal Blacklisting rule headed for defeat

On Tuesday, the U.S. Senate voted 49-48 in favor of H.J. Res 37, a disapproval of the “Fair Pay and Safe Workplaces” regulation, known as the Blacklisting rule.

Mar 9, 2017

Bills moving at the Capitol

It’s been a busy week at at the Statehouse. Both chambers have worked late into the evenings and work has not yet wrapped up for the week. The ABI public policy team is tracking more than 400 bills at this point in the session. Here are just some of the bills that moved this week.

Mar 3, 2017

See what legislative proposals survived the funnel

Today is the first funnel deadline imposed by the Iowa Legislature in an effort to narrow their focus on key policy issues. 

Mar 2, 2017

Participate in funnel week teleconference Friday

The first legislative funnel is tomorrow, Friday, March 3. That means that bills must have moved from one committee in one chamber to receive further consideration this session. Bills taken up by Ways and Means and Appropriations committees are exempt from the funnel.

Mar 2, 2017

Take Action: Encourage lawmakers to support workers’ compensation legislation

Legislation that will make needed updates to Iowa’s workers’ compensation laws moved out of lengthy subcommittees in the House and Senate on Wednesday.

Feb 23, 2017

Federal Spotlight: Ex-Im action stalled while board awaits new directors

The Export-Import Bank successfully secured a long-term reauthorization in 2015, but the agency has not been able to take action on major transaction because it lacks a quorum for its Board of Directors.

Feb 23, 2017

Iowa Department of Revenue issues guidance on non-conformity

Several weeks ago, ABI reported in our weekly newsletter that the State of Iowa is not going to couple with federal tax law changes for the 2016 tax year. This left many practitioners and the public wondering what to do.

Feb 23, 2017

Legislative funnel is next week

It is clear the legislative funnel is imminent by the amount of proposed legislation under consideration at the Statehouse.

Feb 23, 2017

Iowa Workforce Development employment bills introduced

Legislation brought forward by Iowa Workforce Development was introduced Wednesday in the Iowa House.

Feb 23, 2017

Monthly Legislative Update Teleconference is Friday, March 3

The end of the first funnel is next Friday, March 3 and so is the monthly ABI Legislative Update Teleconference.

Feb 23, 2017

Pro-jobs bills advance in House and Senate

Debate occurred in both chambers this week on three bills that ABI supports.

Feb 23, 2017

Water quality bills introduced

The Iowa House and Senate have introduced and moved out of subcommittee different versions of a comprehensive water quality plan that addresses water quality funding and Iowa’s nutrient reduction strategy.

Feb 23, 2017

Contribute now to take part in exclusive PAC events in 2017

As part of our continued efforts to increase your return on investment for membership and political involvement with the organization, ABI developed a political program for 2017.

Feb 23, 2017

Medical cannabis expansion introduced

Feb 23, 2017

TWO WEEKS until Iowa Business Day on the Hill

The Iowa Business Day on the Hill is just two weeks away, on Tuesday, March 14.

Feb 16, 2017

Register now for Iowa Business Day on the Hill

In less than a month, Iowa’s business community will converge on the Iowa Capitol for Iowa Business Day on the Hill.

Feb 16, 2017

Legislative action on bills

There are two weeks left until the first legislative funnel, and ABI’s public policy team is monitoring 300 bills on behalf of members.

Feb 16, 2017

Tort reform legislation filed

Several bills reforming tort laws in Iowa are moving forward. ABI supports legislation that will improve the tort system in Iowa.

Feb 16, 2017

Federal Spotlight: NAM recognizes Ernst with excellence award

The National Association of Manufacturers is recognizing Sen. Joni Ernst with a Legislative Excellence Award on Feb. 23 in Burlington.

Feb 9, 2017

REGISTRATION IS OPEN! Iowa Business Day on the Hill

Feb 9, 2017

Still time to join our Legislative Update Teleconference on Friday

If you haven’t already responded to participate in the monthly exclusive members-only ABI Legislative Update Teleconference, please do so today!

Feb 9, 2017

Collective bargaining reform introduced

Feb 9, 2017

Wage preemption bill introduced

Feb 9, 2017

Workforce discussed at Capitol

This week, workforce was a topic of discussion in several meetings.

Feb 9, 2017

Computer science bill advances

Feb 9, 2017

Updates on important business-related legislation

Updates on several pieces of pending legislation that are important to Iowa businesses.

Feb 9, 2017

Federal Spotlight: Survey shows 83 percent of employees found employer voting info helpful

New survey results from BIPAC, ABI’s national partner on get out the vote efforts, found that more than four out of five employees - 83 percent -  surveyed found information provided by their employers helpful in deciding how to vote in the 2016 Election. T

Feb 2, 2017

Committees move legislation

House and Senate policy committees have moved several pieces of legislation out of subcommittees and full committees.

Feb 2, 2017

Next ABI Legislative Update Teleconference is Friday, Feb. 10

Don’t forget to sign up for the next ABI Legislative Update Teleconference.

Feb 2, 2017

Iowa Senate introduces E-Verify

Feb 2, 2017

Legislation to restrict employer property rights introduced

Feb 2, 2017

Federal spotlight: Take action on regulatory reform

The National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) has sent an action alert to members encouraging individuals to contact their representatives in Congress on key regulatory issues.

Feb 2, 2017

Critical legislation pending, speak with your lawmakers at a weekend forum

There are many important pieces of legislation pending at the Legislature that will affect you and your business. One way to stay involved is to attend a weekend forum and meet with your elected officials to tell them how you feel about specific pieces of legislation.

Jan 26, 2017

Legislative action heats up: No coupling for 2016

The Iowa Senate started Wednesday morning with fiery comments coming from the Senate Democratic minority on topics ranging from health care funding to tax coupling and increasing the minimum wage.

Jan 26, 2017

Drug testing reform bill moves forward

Jan 26, 2017

Bill would streamline IUB reporting

Jan 26, 2017

De-appropriations bills advance

The House and Senate Appropriations committees have approved a bill that would cut approximately $117 million dollars from the FY 2017 budget.

Jan 26, 2017

Apprenticeship bill moves forward

Jan 26, 2017

Federal spotlight: Trump takes many executive actions and orders in first week

President Donald Trump began the first full week of his term with numerous executive actions and orders.

Jan 26, 2017

Branstad and Reynolds advocate for better health care system to help Iowans

Gov. Terry Branstad and Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds recently wrote a letter to leaders in Congress concerning proposals to improve health care solutions for the country and specifically Iowans.

Jan 26, 2017

Trespass liability bill advances

Jan 26, 2017

Iowa’s unemployment rate drops

Iowa’s unemployment rate dropped to 3.6 percent in December, Iowa Workforce Development reported Tuesday. 

Jan 26, 2017

Future Ready Iowa website launches

Gov. Terry Branstad and Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds announced the new Future Ready Iowa website on Monday.

Jan 19, 2017

First ABI legislative update call tomorrow

The first legislative update call of the 2017 legislative session will be tomorrow morning (Friday, Jan. 20) at 8 a.m.

Jan 19, 2017

Regulatory reform hits the ground running at the Capitol

Jan 19, 2017

Subcommittee discusses employee drug testing

Employee drug testing was discussed in a three-person subcommittee meeting this morning (Thursday).

Jan 19, 2017

Federal spotlight: Supreme Court to take up NAM’s WOTUS case

The U.S. Supreme Court has agreed to take up a case brought forth by the National Association of Manufacturers challenging the Environmental Protection Agency’s Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) regulation.

Jan 19, 2017

Federal spotlight: ABI joins letter urging regulatory accountability

ABI has signed onto a letter urging the U.S. Senate to consider and pass the Regulatory Accountability Act.

Jan 19, 2017

Postsecondary education report released

The Branstad/Reynolds administration this week unveiled a new state website that shows how prepared students are for success in postsecondary education and training upon graduation from public high schools in Iowa.

Jan 12, 2017

Legislative Briefing and Reception a success

Thank you to the more than 500 people who attend the ABI Legislative Briefing and Reception on Wednesday.

Jan 12, 2017

First ABI legislative conference call is January 20

The first legislative conference call will be held Jan 20 at 8:00 a.m.

Jan 12, 2017

Branstad emphasizes budget cuts, economic development, water quality funding, education, and public safety

On Tuesday, Gov. Terry Branstad delivered his final Condition of the State address to a joint session of the Iowa Legislature.

Jan 12, 2017

Senate welcomes new leaders and members

Sen. Jack Whitver (R-Ankeny) was sworn in as the new president of the Iowa Senate replacing Sen. Pam Jochum (D-Dubuque). Whitver’s opening speech highlighted the optimism for the future of the state of Iowa and the idea of all senators thinking big and bold.

Jan 12, 2017

House focuses on balanced budget and tax code

There will be 16 new members for the Iowa House during the 87^th General Assembly.

Jan 12, 2017

Special election set in House District 89 for Jan. 31

Gov. Branstad has set a special election date of Jan. 31, to elect a new representative in House District 89.

Jan 12, 2017

Federal spotlight: ABI Washington fly-in set

ABI is once again hosting a Washington, D.C. fly-in this fall.

Jan 5, 2017

Legislative Briefing and Reception is six days away

Make sure to register today for ABI’s annual Legislative Briefing and Reception.

Jan 5, 2017

Legislative update calls set for 2017

The ABI Public Policy team will provide monthly updates during the legislative session to members on issues affecting Iowa businesses.

Jan 5, 2017

Iowa Legislature convenes Monday

The Iowa Legislature will convene on Monday, Jan. 9, when 22 new legislators take the oath of office.

Jan 5, 2017

Get recognized at ABI’s upcoming reception

Those who contributed to IIPAC in 2016 will be recognized at the upcoming ABI Legislative Briefing and Reception with a sticker.

Jan 5, 2017

Future Ready Iowa Alliance meets, ABI members lead

The second meeting of the Future Ready Iowa Alliance met Tuesday to hear about upskilling Iowa’s workers.

Jan 5, 2017

Iowa Workforce pre-files unemployment legislation

Iowa Workforce Development has pre-filed legislation that would increase the amount an individual would have to make in order to be eligible to receive benefits in the next benefit year.