Monday, February 24, marked Day 43 of the 110-day session and the start of Week 7.

First Funnel Unofficially Begins

While the First Funnel deadline is March 7 (end of Week 8), this week is busier as bills must pass subcommittee and full committee to stay alive. Expect 100+ subcommittees per day, with long committee agendas in Week 8. If a bill doesn’t clear subcommittee this week, it likely won’t advance—but advocacy can still make a difference!

After the Funnel

Week 8 marks the end of most policy discussions, with Week 9 shifting focus to the Second Funnel (April 4), budget projections, and tax bills. Expect a significant increase in floor debates in both chambers.

Economic Development Bills to Watch

• TIF Updates – No major TIF bill yet, but small changes are being proposed (e.g., HF 92 on EMS levy and SSB 1159/HSB 208 restricting casino TIF use).
• Rural Economic Development Tax Credits (SF 270) – Similar to last year’s effort to boost business investment in Iowa’s 88 smallest counties.
• Land Redevelopment Trusts (HF 28 & SF 45) – No new action yet, but these funnel-proof bills remain in Ways & Means.
• Tax Credit Reform – Awaiting introduction of IEDA/Governor’s proposal; initial feedback is mostly positive, except on the Endow Iowa credit.

Legislation is moving quickly (125+ bills introduced last Thursday). Keep checking the Bill Tracker List and weigh in where needed.