Week Three of the Iowa Legislature in the Books

January 28, 2021

Observers of the legislative process know it is critical for legislation to be introduced at the beginning of the legislative session to ensure legislative initiatives advance. Several ABI priorities are now on the move. In addition to the summary below, make sure to join our first virtual legislative update at 8 a.m. on Friday.

SSB 1055 was introduced in the Senate Labor Committee. The bill changes the burden of proof in Iowa’s drug testing law. The proposal requires employees who bring drug testing lawsuits against employers prove their case rather than placing the burden on the business to disprove the claims of the lawsuit.

In other action, HSB 22 passed the House Judiciary Committee. The bill creates a simple misdemeanor for those who attempt to defraud a drug test with synthetic urine thereby reducing attempted fraud. The bill has bipartisan support.

See the list below for more information on other bills ABI supports and opposes.

  • HSB 133/SSB 1089 – Governor’s broadband bill – The legislation provides increased incentives to those who install broadband at certain speeds in targeted service areas. A subcommittee is scheduled for next week on SSB 1089. ABI supports the legislation as part of the 2021 infrastructure priority and the deployment of high-speed broadband is critical for attracting businesses and individuals to Iowa. ABI position: For.
  • SF 84 – E-verify – On Monday, a subcommittee recommended passage of legislation that requires all employers to use the federal e-verify system. ABI spoke against the bill, as it implements a mandate on businesses and imposes onerous penalties for those that violate the requirements. It now goes to the full Judiciary Committee. ABI position: Against.
  • HF 230 – Childcare tax credit income threshold – The bill raises the income threshold for individuals seeking to take advantage of the child and dependent care and early childhood development tax credits from $45,000 to $90,000. The legislation passed out of Ways & Means and is ready for floor debate. This is just one of many child care proposals that are being offered in the legislature. ABI position: Undecided.

We will discuss these issues and many others tomorrow morning during our first legislative update at 8 a.m. You won't want to miss this ABI members-only opportunity. Contact Michelle Vollstedt if you would like to register.