Better tracking of rape kits
Under SF 2376, the AG will develop an automated tracking system for sexual assault evidence kits, giving victims more complete and timely information about their cases. MORE
View ArticleOversight meeting needed on state use of cloud-based software
Democratic senators are calling for an urgent meeting of the Government Oversight Committee to look into the Reynolds' Administration's bidding process and possible conflicts of interest. MORE
View ArticleCoronavirus comes to Iowa
State Public Health officials updated legislators today on cases of coronavirus within Iowa. It’s normal to be concerned, especially with reports of illness and death, so we want to pass along what...
View ArticleWe need transparency in fight against COVID-19
Iowans want to be part of the solution. That requires more Iowans knowing what is going on. We deserve straightforward leadership that includes timely, accurate data, and clear directions.
View ArticleCelsi: More testing, oversight needed
So far, TestIowa has not delivered on its contractual promise to test at least 5,000 people per day. Sen. Celsi is calling for expanded testing in cooperation with other entities.
View ArticlePetersen: Let’s give Iowans a healthier way to restart the economy
The number of COVID-19 cases is still increasing, and nationally ranked hotspots are popping up all over the state. Yet, the Governor and Republican legislators continue to deliver narratives that are...
View ArticleLegislative Democrats’ COVID-19 Recovery Agenda
Iowa's Democratic lawmakers have released a plan to address the needs of Iowa families and business during the reconvened 2020 session, starting June 3. The goal is to keep lawmakers focused on...
View ArticlePetersen: We can take immediate steps to end racial disparities
Iowans and Americans everywhere are coming together to say “enough is enough.” It’s time that our actions condemn hate and racism. It’s time that our actions advance equality and justice for all.
View ArticleStatement by Senate Democratic Leader Janet Petersen on passage of Criminal...
Iowans are calling for social and racial justice. Senate Democrats are ready to make that a reality, and we are so happy to make a first step today in a bipartisan manner.
View Article2020 Session Wrap-up
A quick list of the good, the bad and the ugly bills of the 2020 legislative session.
View ArticleIowa Senate Republicans failed to support bipartisan effort to restore voting...
A permanent solution was blocked by Senate Republicans, who failed to amend the Iowa Constitution to allow more Iowans to vote. Sen. Brad Zaun, Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, waited until the...
View ArticleIowa is COVID hot spot
Six months into the pandemic, when many of us thought we might be in the clear, Iowa is in the thick of it with record-high infection rates and mounting deaths. Yet, the Governor continues her...
View ArticleInvestigation needed into misuse of federal COVID funds
Key Democratic legislators are calling for investigations into reports that Governor Reynolds diverted nearly $450,000 to pay her staff instead of using the funds for COVID-19 relief efforts.
View ArticleStatement on Governor’s misuse of federal COVID funds
Instead of directing more money to testing and contact tracing, paid sick leave for essential workers, food assistance, childcare subsidies, additional money for rent assistance, unemployment...
View ArticleUnemployment rate much higher than Reynolds Administration estimate
When we include all the Iowans out of a job over the last year, Iowa’s actual unemployment rate is 10.3%, and the actual number of Iowans who have lost their jobs is approximately 180,000.
View ArticleGov. Reynolds’ Misuse of Federal Pandemic Relief Funds
Senator Claire Celsi is formally requesting that Republican leaders in the Iowa Senate convene a Senate Government Oversight meeting. The Legislature must ensure that all CARES dollars are used...
View ArticleOur COVID Recovery Plan
Iowans have been through a lot over the last year, particularly with the pandemic. It’s not over yet, but it is time for the Legislature to do all it can to help Iowa build back better, bigger and...
View ArticleBipartisan bill would compensate college athletes
A new bill would allow student athletes in Iowa to profit from promotional use of their names, images, and likenesses as early as July. SF 245 would allow student athletes to financially gain from...
View ArticleDeJear appointed to redistricting panel
Senate Democratic Leader Zach Wahls today appointed small business owner and community leader Deidre DeJear of Des Moines to the Temporary Redistricting Advisory Commission. The Commission is...
View ArticleBipartisan bill cracks down on fertility fraud
SF 529 addresses cases where those seeking fertility assistance are instead victims of fraud, specifically cases where the physician misrepresents the sperm donor’s identity. Through popular DNA...
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