Branstad Reflects on Historic 2017 Legislative Session

Statement

Today, Gov. Terry Branstad and released a statement on the close of the 2017 legislative session:

"As a former legislator, former lt. governor and chief executive of the state, I've worked with the Legislature for 33 years. When you look at the volume and diversity of policy issues that were addressed this year, I am proud to say this has been one of the most significant and productive sessions in our history," said Branstad. "We have given Iowa taxpayers and families a balanced budget under difficult circumstances, prioritized K-12 education funding while building a computer science foundation for our schools, provided money for family planning clinics that don't provide abortions, protected the ballot box, strengthened our traffic safety laws, protected victims of domestic abuse and violence, solidified Iowans' Constitutional 2nd Amendment rights, and most importantly, made Iowa more competitive for attracting business and industry. This is a long list of accomplishments that would not have been possible without the hard work of the Iowa Legislature. However, I am disappointed that we were unable to reach consensus on a long-term, reliable and dedicated source of funding for water quality infrastructure. In the next 30 days, Lt. Gov. Reynolds and I will thoughtfully and carefully review all the bills passed, and act according to our principles."

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