I’m always grateful for the chance to connect with you and hear directly about the issues that matter most. I appreciated the opportunity to hear from so many constituents and share about the victories we’ve had for Iowans already this session at the League of Women Voters forum in Story County.

I had even more fun last weekend when I attended a training hosted by Gilbert-Franklin Township Fire & Rescue in my district. My already high respect for what firefighters do increased even further when I saw how challenging it was to control the hose in all that gear – and I was in a well-ventilated and safe parking lot rather than a burning home. I’m so impressed and appreciative of the excellent firefighters across our state.

My conversations with firefighters, and emails from many of you, made it even sweeter to advocate for and vote YES this week as we passed House File 969, which increases crucial cancer coverage for Iowa’s brave firefighters. By passing HF 969, we’ve expanded the list of cancers covered under presumption legislation, ensuring that firefighters who develop cancer as a result of their service will have the coverage and support they need. Thank you again to the firefighters and all first responders who give so much for our safety!

I’m pleased to announce a significant win for Story County residents. The governor has signed into law Senate File 75, a bill that ensures better rural representation by requiring districts for county supervisors in counties, like Story County, which host a Regents university. This bill will provide a stronger voice for rural communities and enhance local governance.

Iowans have been voicing concerns about rising property taxes, and we’re taking action. In March, Senate Republicans introduced a historic property tax relief proposal, which has now been updated based on feedback from residents, local officials and stakeholders.

Senate Study Bill 1227 includes several key changes:

• Increasing the homestead exemption to $50,000, offering relief to homeowners.

• Removing the rollback for all classifications (except agriculture) immediately.

• Implementing a CPI adjustment alongside a 2 percent revenue restriction to help local governments manage inflation.

• Supporting small communities with their budgeting needs.

A recent study highlighted that from 2000 to 2024, Iowa property taxes grew at more than twice the rate of inflation — 170 percent vs. 73 percent. If this trend continues, Iowa will remain one of the most burdened states for property taxes. Senate Study Bill 1227 is designed to ease this burden, helping homeowners stay in their homes and ensuring a more competitive, stable environment for Iowa’s residents and businesses.

As we enter the last scheduled month of this legislative session, our attention is turning to the budget for the upcoming fiscal year. I will especially be focused on the Health and Human Services budget and am also interested in the appropriation of opioid settlement fund dollars. We’re working diligently to make sure the resources are in place to meet the needs of Iowans while maintaining fiscal responsibility. Thank you again for your engagement, your feedback, and your continued support.

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Contact Kara Warme at

kara.warme@legis.iowa.gov