December 5, 2013

Business Property Tax Credit Rules Proposed

The Department of Revenue has proposed rules as part of the property tax relief bill passed in the 2013 legislative session. The rules will implement the legislation and provide detailed information to County Assessors and other interested individuals in how the credit will be applied to parcels. You have read in past editions of the legislative news that a Frequently Asked Questions document is available on the Department of Revenue Website. If you would like to review the proposed rules click here. If you would like to look at the FAQ document, click here.

In Case You Missed It – Latest Environment Committee Newsletter Available

As many of you know, of the five policy committees that guide the work of the ABI lobbyists, there is no more active group than that of the Environment Committee. ABI members from companies across the state who are experts in environmental law and compliance help Kevin and Nicole address the regulatory challenges that face many facilities in many different industries. The goal of the committee is to be proactive in legislative and regulatory matters so that industry is doing their part to adhere to reasonable rules and comply with guidelines that protect the environment in a way that doesn’t impede their ability to remain in business. While committee members receive a good deal of communications from ABI, from time-to-time, the public policy team distributes a newsletter geared specifically towards environmental issues that ABI is engaged in. To see the latest newsletter, click here.

Special election slated for January 7 in House District 25

(DES MOINES) – Gov. Terry E. Branstad today signed a proclamation directing a special election be held on Jan. 7, 2014, for Iowa House District 25, which is being vacated by Rep. Julian Garrett following his election to the Iowa Senate earlier this month. House District 25 is mostly rural but includes the towns of Bevington, Norwalk and Milo in Madison and Warren counties. The Republicans nominated Stan Gustafson, a retired attorney, as their candidate. The Democrats have not yet nominated a candidate. Check www.iowaprosperity.com for more information.

Governor Branstad announces new Home Base Iowa Businesses and Communities programs

On Tuesday, Governor Branstad announced two new programs as part of the Home Base Iowa initiative: Home Base Iowa Businesses and Home Base Iowa Communities. ABI Board Chair Myron Linn and ABI President Mike Ralston were on hand three weeks ago when the governor announced Home Base Iowa and the program is taking off quickly. To read more about the new programs, click here. We will keep members updated on Home Base Iowa as the program develops.

U.S. Department of Labor Holds Webinar on “Shared Work”

According to UWC, the US Department of Labor will be conducting a webinar on Friday, December 6th at Noon to cover the incentives currently being offered by the Federal government for states to operate an STC program, the benefits of the program, and will provide participants with information needed for their legislation to meet the new federal definition of STC.  The webinar will feature a panel of state experts who will discuss their experience with the program, including challenges and successful practices related to passing the required legislation, implementation of the program, the benefits of the program, and the positive outcomes experienced by businesses that participate in the program.

Some ABI members may already use the work sharing program as Iowa has a state program the legislature enacted with ABI’s support. If you are interested in participating in the webinar, you can register at: https://www.workforce3one.org/view/5001330843453179020/info.

Early Deadline Ends Soon For Legislative Reception

Don’t forget to register for the 2014 Legislative Briefing and Reception to be held on Wednesday, January 15, 2014. The event is at a new location this year with more space than last year’s reception. The Embassy Suites Downtown Des Moines will be the event location and free ample surface parking is available. Please register today!

Ralston to Receive Weindruch Award

ABI President Mike Ralston will receive the Linda S. Weindruch Award from the Iowa Taxpayers Association tomorrow (Friday, December 6) at their Annual Meeting and Tax Symposium. According to the Iowa Taxpayers Association, the purpose of this award is to recognize outstanding accomplishments and contributions in promoting and protecting the principles and policies of fair business taxation.  The Iowa Taxpayers Association offers this award in memory and in recognition of Linda S. Weindruch who passed away after a long battle with multiple sclerosis in October 2004. Click here to read the full release. We can think of no better recipient; congratulations to Mike!