This week, much of the activity at the Capitol was happening behind the scenes as leaders from both chambers and the Governor’s office continued budget and tax discussions.  The House is currently working from the Governor’s tax proposal which is dramatically different than the Senate proposal which passed the full Senate earlier this session.  Without determining the size and timing of any proposed tax reform, the 2019 budget targets cannot be determined. 

Midyear Budget Cuts

The most significant legislative activity this week culminated with the Governor signing SF 2117 which cut about $25.5 million from the FY 18 (current) budget, largely on the backs of the Regents institutions.  Almost $11 million was cut from the University of Iowa and Iowa State University.

Regulatory Process

In addition to the de-appropriations bill, the Governor also signed into law HF 2343 which has the potential to significantly impact the regu