Public Policy Update: Legislators Shift Focus to Budget and Property Tax into Their Final Stretch
April 10, 2026 | Public Policy
State Policy Update
The Iowa Legislature is entering the final stretch of the 2026 session. Their attention has shifted almost entirely to finalizing the state budget and advancing property tax reform.
The “Per Diem” Timeline
The 100th day of the legislative session falls on April 21. This marks the point when daily expense payments for lawmakers end and typically signals a push toward adjournment. While this deadline adds urgency, the session will continue until a balanced budget agreement is reached.
Budget Negotiations Underway
Senate Republicans have established a $9.623 billion budget target for FY 2027, slightly below Governor Reynolds’ proposal. House and Senate leaders are now working through budget details, including funding for workforce and economic development priorities.
Property Tax Reform Sees Bipartisan Support
Property tax policy remains a key focus. This week the Senate passed a bipartisan proposal that would cap property tax increases at 2% and expand homestead exemptions for seniors. The House is considering its own separate proposal, and reaching agreement with the Senate will be a critical step toward adjournment.
Economic Alliance’s Focus
As negotiations continue, our efforts remain focused on advancing policies that support tax predictability and strengthen the workforce and a business-friendly environment. Click here to review the full list of bills we’re tracking this session.
Federal Policy Update
While headlines from D.C. are often full of distractions, our focus remains on the specific policies that impact business’ bottom line.
National Permitting Reform Push
We recently joined over 600 organizations in a coalition letter led by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce urging the Senate to pass comprehensive permitting reform. The goal is simple: modernize an outdated system so we can build everything from broadband to energy infrastructure faster and with more price certainty. The House has already moved several bills, and we are pushing the Senate to finish the job this year.
Regulatory Relief for Small Business
A significant win for the business community recently arrived via the Treasury Department’s exemption for American small businesses from the invasive Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) reporting requirements. We are now advocating for Congress to make this exemption permanent to prevent future administrative flip-flops.
Economic Alliance’s Focus
Our efforts remain focused on advancing federal policies that create an environment where Iowa businesses can grow and build.
Join us in our Advocacy Efforts
Member engagement is critical to shaping effective policy at both the state and federal levels. There are several opportunities ahead to get involved:
- D.C. Fly-In: Join business and community leaders this May for the Economic Alliance’s annual fly-in to Washington, D.C., where participants engage directly with members of Congress and federal agencies on key priorities. Contact bsolberg@cedarrapids.org for more information.
- Candidate Forums: Be on the lookout for details on our candidate forum series taking place this summer and early fall, offering opportunities to hear directly from those seeking to represent our region as Governor, U.S. Senator and 2nd District U.S. Representative.
2027 Policy Priorities: Planning is underway for the next iteration of the Collective Voice state and federal policy agenda. Members will have opportunities to provide input in the coming months.
