Negotiations take step back as Senate Democrats continue push to spend more money

State of Iowa Seal

(DES MOINES) – Branstad administration Communications Director Tim Albrecht released the following statement after conclusion of the latest budget negotiation meeting between the House, Senate and Governor’s office:

“Negotiations with the Senate have taken a step backward as Senate Democrats continue to come to the table with more and more demands for new state spending. In the last two meeting sessions, alone, the new spending demands have totaled more than $100 million. The Governor and House Republicans are absolutely committed to passing a sustainable budget that spends less than we take in, fully funds our obligations, and balances over the next five years.

“Gov. Branstad has made it clear that the budget games and gimmicks of the past are unacceptable. The Senate Democrats’ plan calls for spending more than we take in, while underfunding vital entitlement programs. This is unacceptable and Iowans will no longer be fooled by their deceptive budgeting practices.”