Monday, January 9th, the first session of the 90th General Assembly convened, and my journey began. First and foremost, I want to thank my wife for standing beside me conducting work behind the scenes during my campaign. I recognize and appreciate her sacrifice so that I can serve the people of Iowa. Additionally, I would like to thank all of my constituents back home who have entrusted me with the privilege and responsibility to be their voice in the Iowa Senate. I am humbled and honored.
Some of the top priorities that have been put forward will include: workforce shortage, parental choice in education, property tax reform, expanding access to health care and mental health services, and tort reform. A number of bills have been filed already. As a newly elected legislator, I am quickly learning how to the process works. The work seems slow then suddenly it’s not!
This first week’s agenda for me was filled with a number of ceremonies, addresses, inaugurations, and organizational committee meetings. The committees I have been assigned for this session are: Natural Resources, Health and Human Services, Education, Judiciary, and Ethics. I will also be serving on the Education Appropriations Subcommittee.
The Iowa Senate and Iowa House held several joint sessions the first week. Governor Reynolds delivered her Condition of the State address on Tuesday evening, outlining her vision and agenda for the future. Wednesday, Chief Justice Susan Christensen presented her Condition of the Judiciary. Finally, on Thursday the Adjutant General of the Iowa National Guard, Major General Benjamin Corell delivered the Condition of the National Guard address.
It is an honor to serve in the Iowa Senate. If you have a concern or question, please reach out and I will try to get back to you as quickly as possible. Email me at lynn.evans@legis.iowa.gov.