Public Policy Update: A Strong Collective Voice at the Capitol
February 13, 2026 | Public Policy
State Policy Update
This week business and community leaders from across our region gathered in Des Moines for our annual Collective Voice Day at the Capitol. Our group included small and large business leaders, non-profit organizations, educational institutions, economic and community development partners and city leaders.
The day began at the State Capitol, where our delegation met directly with legislative leaders and statewide elected officials to elevate the priorities of the business community. We had productive conversations with:
- House Majority Leader Bobby Kauffman on property tax reform and workforce development, including strengthening work-based learning opportunities and job training programs.
- Iowa Economic Development Authority Director Debi Durham regarding her proposed legislation to encourage business to remain and grow in Iowa, as well as the bill’s implications for economic development tools that support business growth. Director Durham also expressed her on-going support, led by The Eastern Iowa Airport, to create an aerospace cluster in our region to attract new business.
- Lt. Governor Chris Cournoyer on property taxes, workforce challenges, and strategies to retain and attract young talent in Iowa.
Secretary of State Paul Pate on voter engagement efforts and continued improvements to streamline business filings and services.
These discussions were substantive, solutions-oriented, and focused on keeping our region competitive.
We closed the day with our evening legislative reception, bringing together lawmakers from across the state with leaders from throughout our region. The reception was co-hosted by the Economic Alliance and City of Cedar Rapids, in partnership with Kirkwood Community College, Benton Development Group, Cedar County Economic Development, Hiawatha Economic Development Corporation, Iowa County Community Development, Jones County Economic Development, Marion Chamber of Commerce, Marion Economic Development Corporation, Robins Economic Development Initiative and Washington Economic Development Group. Thank you to everyone who invested the time to participate. Your presence strengthens our voice at the Capitol.
Bill Watch
Property tax reform continues to be a central issue this session. Legislative leaders are evaluating several different proposals that would adjust levy limitations, increase state backfill commitments, and modify rollback calculations. The business community continues to emphasize the need for:
- Predictability and transparency
- Protection against shifting burdens to commercial and industrial property
- Long-term structural reform rather than short-term fixes
- Balanced approach so local government’s services meet the on-going needs of business
- For a comparison of the three proposals, click here.
The Economic Alliance is also actively monitoring legislation that expands work-based learning and apprenticeships, protects business incentive programs, protects local control and enhances local quality of place efforts. To read a full list of bills we are actively monitoring, click here.
Join our Advocacy Efforts in 2026!
Capitol Conversations
Feb. 27 | 4:30 – 5:30 PM
Big Grove Brewery | 170 1st St SW | Cedar Rapids
Connect directly with local state legislators in a relaxed, reception-style setting. Our second session of Capitol Conversations moves beyond a fireside chat to give Economic Alliance members face-to-face time with lawmakers for meaningful dialogue and relationship-building.
- Engage personally with local policymakers
- Share your perspectives on key issues affecting our community
- Build connections in an informal, networking-friendly environment
Prior to the event, registered attendees will receive an “Up to Date” memo with timely updates and tips to help you prepare for Capitol Conversations with legislators.
Thanks to our sponsor, Can Shed!
National Civics Bee
Final push to participate in the Cedar Rapids Regional Civics Bee!
We are in the final stretch of recruitment for our upcoming Civics Bee. This initiative, in partnership with the U.S. Chamber Foundation, promotes civic literacy and engagement among middle school students in our region. With less than one week remaining until the 2026 deadline – February 17 at midnight – we want to ensure every eligible middle schooler has the chance to participate in the National Civics Bee®.
How it works:
- Students submit a four-paragraph essay proposing ideas to improve their communities and connecting them to the values that shaped our country.
- Top essay finalists will be invited to compete in a live quiz competition in their state.
- The winner from each state earns a paid trip to compete in the national championship.
Not sure where to start? This step-by-step video tutorial walks students through the entire process, from identifying community issues to submitting their final essay.
Thank you to our Supporting Sponsor, Walmart, and our Host Sponsor, Indian Creek Nature Center!