Legislative Session Suspended Due to Coronavirus Outbreak

On Sunday, March 16, 2020, legislative leaders announced a decision to halt the 2020 legislative session for at least 30 days to mitigate the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19). On Monday, the legislature convened and approved measures to facilitate this action. Gov. Reynolds can now access up to $20 million from the economic emergency fund and more freely transfer funds between departments to combat the virus. The legislature also approved current state spending levels through August 31, 2020, to provide continuity of government beyond the normal June 30 end-of-the-state fiscal year. The Senate also paused the process for approval of appointments made by Gov. Reynolds. 

Read more:

• Des Moines Register: Iowa lawmakers grant Gov. Kim Reynolds expanded power as they suspend legislative session due to coronavirus
• Iowa Public Radio: Iowa Legislature Gives Governor More Spending Authority For COVID-19 Response, Suspends Session