Blom

This week I had the honor of floor managing and passing my first bill – HF 1002. I’m pleased to say that it passed unanimously, 92-0!

Many communities in Iowa rely on volunteer first responders in the case of emergencies. But while the number of volunteers is decreasing, fire emergency calls in Iowa have been increasing in recent years. This bill creates a length of service award program for volunteer emergency responders. The program will provide tax-deferred benefits to create an additional incentive to recruit and retain individuals for these crucial roles. Municipal governing bodies are tasked with developing eligibility and operational guidelines for these programs. Once they have their program established, a service award grant fund will be available to help support the municipalities in funding these programs with a matching contribution requirement. $1.5 million from the sports wagering receipts fund for fiscal year 2025-2026 will be appropriated to support the grant fund. A length of service award program offers a small but meaningful benefit for those who volunteer to put themselves on the front line.

Cancer Coverage and Screening for First Responders

After years of work, we officially sent HF 969 to the governor’s desk to become law. This bill expands the definition of cancer for the Municipal Fire and Police Retirement System and the Special Services Members of IPERS. Current code outlines 14 types of cancers that are covered for disabilities and death benefits. In listing certain cancers that are covered, code inevitably leaves out additional cancers that should certainly be covered.

Firefighters and family members who have lost friends, coworkers and loved ones to cancers that are not covered by current code, were in attendance to support the passage of this bill. These people have our backs every day as they risk their lives and go to work. With this bill, we do what we can to return the favor and have their backs as well.

As always, thank you for the honor to serve you in the Iowa House! Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or issues. I’d love to have visitors, so don’t hesitate to come to the Capitol and say hi.

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David Blom, a Republican from Marshalltown, represents District 52 in the Iowa House.