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The Weekly Scoop: Edition 4

I’m glad we share the same interest of flavors when it comes to ice cream, as that

makes it all worthwhile reading “The Weekly Scoop” from Capitol Hill. After celebrating National lowa Day, our state will continue its rooted traditions and cherish its history. lowa’s culture remains the brand of “Made In America” and we the people are privileged to be a part of it.

Moving forward and standing with the next generation of leaders gives me hope that our state will be well taken care of. I was glad to welcome the Central Lyon FFA Chapter and the Tomorrow STEMS From lowa groups to the State House, advocating in celebration of Career Technical Education month. Listening to the mission of these students, I know that a good education inspires passion to pursue high demand careers.

This past week brought much needed discussion to the house floor with HF 171 and HF161. Benjamin Franklin said “investment in knowledge pays the best interest” and HF 171, Supplemental State Aid to local school districts, will do just that. In the first 30 days of session, your legislature is required to set this figure for funding in the next fiscal year. We passed and the Governor signed a bill to increase SSA school funding by 3%, which would be $106.8 million more than expected in 2023. With this increase per pupil funding goes to $7,635

In support of reforming Medical Malpractice tort law, HF 161 limits the amounts of noneconomic damage claims to $2 million, if occurring at a hospital, and $1 million anywhere else. This bill does not include what can be awarded to the plaintiff for economic damages. Punitive damages will be awarded to the family rather than some funds going to the state, as is the current law. After hearing the concerns through the legislature, the bill will adjust for annual inflation beginning in 2028.

As week five wrapped up at the State House, we ended the week strong in the Agriculture Committee, amending and passing two bills and one House Study Bill that will move to the floor for debate this week. I would like to thank the Agriculture Chair Representative Sexton, Vice Chair Derek Wulf, and HSB 113 Chair Heather Hora for their hard work.

Be sure to check out “The Weekly Scoop” with more information from the Agriculture Committee next week.

Rep. Meggers’ district, Iowa House District 54, includes all of Grundy and Hardin counties and several rural townships on the far western edge of Black Hawk County. He can be reached via email: joshua.meggers@legis.iowa.gov.