This week, the Senate had a big focus on health care. I had the honor of floor managing House File 875, a bill aimed at streamlining the credentialing process for health care professionals. I also led HF 887, which removes regulatory roadblocks for birth centers looking to open in Iowa and voted in support of improvements to the burdensome prior authorization process. We’re working hard to make health care more accessible and affordable, and I will continue to advocate to save our rural pharmacies through smart pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) reform.

One of the highlights of my week was visiting the stunning judicial building at the invitation of Judge Sharon Greer. Our conversations highlighted the importance of SF 474, the “Youth in Crisis” bill, which I had the privilege of working on in the Health and Human Services Committee. This legislation strengthens support for youth involved in involuntary commitment, juvenile delinquency, and child/family-in-need-of-assistance cases. It also centralizes Juvenile Court Services to ensure uniformity and improve safety for youth, families, and Iowa’s communities. I’m proud of the bill’s bipartisan passage this week and the positive impact it will have on Iowa’s future.

As many of you know, Senate District 26 has faced more than its fair share of natural disasters. In my walks through the neighborhoods, I’ve met families who rebuilt after the 2018 tornado, only to face the 2020 derecho. That’s why SF 619 is so important. This bill will help fund recovery efforts, including disaster housing assistance, and improve Iowa’s response to future emergencies. It’s a vital step in ensuring our communities are more resilient than ever before.

Tax Day was this week, and I’m proud to share that I voted YES on Senate Joint Resolution 11, a proposed constitutional amendment that would make it MUCH harder to raise income taxes in Iowa. Since 2017, Republicans have passed massive tax reforms making Iowa a more competitive state, bringing real relief to Iowa families, and simplifying our tax code for everyone, including families, farmers, and small businesses. We eliminated the inheritance tax and taxes on retirement income. We passed a historic flat income tax for Iowans and accelerated the implementation to January 1 of this year. These changes have put Iowa among the lowest tax rates in the Midwest, and the sixth lowest tax rate in the country. SJR 11 protects these reforms by requiring a two-thirds vote in both the Iowa House and Senate to increase taxes. I believe it should be HARD to raise taxes (as the better solution is a smaller and more efficient government), and I’m hoping we’ll get this amendment on the ballot in November 2026 to protect your hard-earned money!

Finally, I had the pleasure of attending the 64th Annual Iowa Prayer Breakfast, a truly uplifting experience. We were led in prayer by First Gentleman Kevin Reynolds, and Governor Reynolds shared about her prayerful decision not to seek re-election. I am grateful for her faithful leadership, and I wish the Governor and her family all the best through the end of this term and into the next chapter.

For those who celebrate, I hope you have a joyful and blessed Easter! He is risen!