Ragan Report

Making progress on priorities for Iowa’s working families
 
     As the 2016 session continues, the Senate is making progress on several initiatives for working families, including:

     • Supporting local schools: Great local schools are key to expanding job opportunities and boosting Iowa’s economy. The Senate approved a 4 percent increase in basic aid to local schools for the 2016-17 academic year (SF 174 and SF 175) and by 4 percent for the 2017-18 academic year (SF 2092 and SF 2093). 

     • Protecting health care: As Gov. Terry Branstad’s chaotic push to privatize Medicaid nears implementation, the legislature must ensure Iowa’s health care safety net. SF 2213 will provide tough oversight to safeguard Medicaid members, health care providers and Iowa taxpayers.

     • Ensuring affordable higher education:  Senate Democrats are working on a state budget that increases support for our colleges and universities so Iowans can afford the education and training that leads to great jobs. This is important to keeping more young Iowans in our state after graduation.

     • Providing better access to quality preschool: The Senate unanimously approved SF 2009 to expand Iowa’s successful preschool program. 

     • Encouraging apprenticeships: More Iowans will be able to learn while they earn if SF 2179 becomes law. The legislation provides incentives to businesses to create well-paying jobs and use apprenticeship training programs.
     Sen. Amanda Ragan (D-Mason City) serves Franklin, Butler and Cerro Gordo counties in Senate District 27. She can be reached at (515) 281-3371 or (641) 424-0874. Email her at amanda.ragan@legis.iowa.gov.