Parties often agree in Iowa Senate

We are back at the Capitol in Des Moines, and the 2026 legislative session is officially underway.

As I begin this session, I am excited and honored to represent the people of Senate District 46. The first week is always busy, with opening remarks from legislative leaders, the governor, the chief justice, and the adjutant general setting the tone for the work ahead.

On the first day of the session, we heard opening remarks from Senate President Amy Sinclair and Senate Majority Leader Mike Klimesh. Senate President Sinclair highlighted the bipartisan work of the Senate, noting that more than 60% of record votes last year were unanimous and nearly 70% received at least 40 "yes" votes, showing that we often agree more than we disagree.

Majority Leader Klimesh shared his vision for continuing to build on the Senate’s successes by fostering an environment where innovation can thrive, encouraging investment, creating jobs and strengthening communities across Iowa.

Just six years ago, Iowa ranked 43rd in the nation for tax competitiveness. In November, our state climbed to 17th, with the Tax Foundation noting that Iowa’s ranking has improved substantially in recent years due to several rounds of pro-growth, structurally sound tax reform that have strengthened our competitive standing.

Iowa’s economy continues to show strong momentum, with our state ranking second in the nation for economic growth in November. Looking ahead, the Iowa Business Council has also reported a positive outlook for 2026, with expectations for increased sales, capital investment, and job growth across the state.

I am excited to once again serve as chair of the Senate Agriculture Committee, a role that holds a special place in my heart.

As a sixth-generation farmer, I know agriculture is not just a profession, but a way of life that shapes our families, our communities, and our state. I shared this perspective with my fellow senators during our first Agriculture Committee meeting Tuesday, and I look forward to using this position to continue advocating for farmers and rural Iowans across the state.

I am also excited to work alongside Rep. Derek Wulf, who serves as chair of the Agriculture Committee in the House, as we collaborate across chambers to develop strong, practical agriculture policy that supports Iowa producers and strengthens our state’s economy.

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While there are many important issues ahead this session, we are eager to get back to work and focus on solutions for Iowans and their families. As Senate Majority Leader Mike Klimesh shared in his opening remarks, “I believe working together in the Senate with the House and with the Governor, we can achieve truly great things to help build on our past accomplishments, set up Iowa for the future, and leave this state better than we found it.”

This week, I had the opportunity to welcome several constituents to the Capitol and hear directly from them about issues important to their communities.

I met with Judge Shawn Showers, Chief Judge of Judicial District 8, who traveled from Washington. I also talked with members of iJAG, who were students from BGM.

Trudie and Cliff Pearcy drove from Shueyville in Johnson County to share several thoughtful ideas for potential legislation. I was also happy to welcome my daughter, Erin Driscoll, who is serving as my new clerk this year.

Over the past several years, we have heard from Iowans across the state who are concerned about rising property taxes. Neighbors, small business owners and families alike have shared how increasing property inflation is affecting their ability to afford their homes and plan for the future.

We heard those concerns loud and clear, which is why we introduced a major property tax overhaul on the very first day of the legislative session.

Senate Study Bill 3001 refocuses property tax policy onto everyday Iowans who are building their lives and making Iowa their forever home. The proposal allows Iowans age 60 and older with a paid-off mortgage to stop paying involuntary property taxes on their home, allowing them to truly own their property.

It also gives local governments the option to vote for additional revenue when needed, while automatically lowering levy rates when property inflation exceeds 2%. Common sense tax and spending limits help rein in unsustainable local spending while providing a workable solution for both taxpayers and local governments.

Iowa currently ranks among the highest states for property tax costs, and improving that standing requires meaningful, comprehensive reform. This proposal recognizes the differences between rural, suburban and urban Iowa, supports families, farmers and businesses, and also responds to local needs by dedicating additional funding to improve the safety of our roads and bridges.

Property tax reform has been a big issue we’ve been hearing about for years, and after efforts to tweak the system, it is time for something bigger and bolder.

As always, I am incredibly honored to represent the constituents of District 46. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the 2026 legislative agenda, especially as subcommittee scheduling and legislation discussions pick up, please do not hesitate to reach out to me.