Sheets Snapshot March 10

The House and the Senate have reached an agreement on two key issues… It includes provisions related to so-called “coupling” and “consumables.” First, it includes the House tax coupling Bill, which prevents a $95 million tax increase on Iowans. This “coupling” with the federal tax code benefitted more than 177,000 Iowa taxpayers in 2014 including small businesses, farmers, teachers, homeowners, and college students. This Bill also includes provisions to codify the sales tax exemption for supplies consumed in manufacturing. By codifying this exemption, manufacturers are given a clear and consistent definition of what is subject to sales tax.

Governor Branstad signed a Bill that keeps the majority of juvenile records sealed, unless a judge orders them unsealed. Until this Bill, Iowa did not seal juvenile records and a person, no matter how old, had to answer for mistakes of their youth. Although most juvenile records would be sealed, some parties still have access to the records, including counselors and guardians, court professionals, probation officers, the Department of Corrections and others who may be assisting the juvenile. Allowing these groups access ensures the juvenile is held accountable for their actions while they receive the necessary help. Sealing juvenile records allows young Iowans a fresh start and ensures mistakes of the past don’t destroy their future.

Iowa House Passed a Ban on Fetal Tissue Sale prohibiting a person from knowingly acquiring, providing, receiving, transferring, or using a fetal body part in Iowa, regardless of whether the acquisition is for value. This prohibits the sale or donation of fetal tissue in Iowa. This prohibition does not apply to: diagnostic or remedial tests, procedures, or observations to determine the life or health of the fetus or pregnant woman; the final disposition of a fetal body part; or pathological study. A person who violates this law is guilty of a class “c” felony, punishable by a confinement of no more than 10 years and a fine of at least $1,000.

Upcoming forums:

* Mar 19: “Legislative Coffee” @ 10 AM in Centerville at the office of Chariton Planning and Development; 308 North 12th Street. Please contact me with any questions or concerns at larry.sheets@legis.iowa.gov or 641-895-6153.