Sheets Snapshot – January 31, 2018
Dear friends in House District 80,
On the dollar bill you read “In God We Trust.” On the South Wall Frieze at the US Supreme Court you see Moses holding the Ten Commandments. The US Capitol building includes the Congressional Prayer Room, “to provide a quiet place where individual Representatives and Senators may withdraw to seek Divine strength and guidance;” it’s stained glass window bears the words, “Preserve me, O God: for in thee do I put my trust. Psalm 16:1.” From its founding, America has been heavily influenced by the Bible’s message and principles. Yet many (if not most) people are unaware of the Bible’s central role in US civic life. I was a Subcommittee member on a Bill promoting a High School social studies elective course describing the influence of the Bible on the founding of the USA and its continuing impact on society. It neither promotes nor disparages any religion. Its purpose is to explain that Book’s extraordinary influence on our society. That Bill passed out of Sub Committee.
A Bill passed out of Public Safety Sub Committee prohibiting establishment of Sanctuary cities in our state. It insists on the novel idea that our elected officials obey the law and follow the oath of office they took when elected.
There are several other Bills I have sponsored. Among them are: The so called “Bathroom Bill”, the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA), and the Wrongful Birth/Life Bill. I will discuss them in detail as they proceed.
After three years of working on water quality legislation, the Iowa House passed a bipartisan bill that establishes a dedicated, long-term source of funding for water quality projects across the state. This bill makes improvements that will ensure Iowans have access to clean drinking water and that natural resources are preserved for future generations. The Water Quality Bill (SF 512) was passed 1/23/2018 and sent to the Governor.
The bill provides $282 million in new funding over the next 12 years to make improvements in water treatment infrastructure and continue implementation of the research-based Nutrient Reduction Strategy. This bill focuses efforts on both urban and rural improvements.
Last year, more than $400 million was invested into water quality efforts across the state. The passage of Senate File 512 will increase funding even more and bring about historic levels of investment.
This is not the end of the discussion however. We are committed to continue working on water quality issues and will look for opportunities to keep Iowa’s lakes, rivers, and streams clean.
Upcoming forums:
* Feb 3: League of Women Voters @9:30am at Bridge View in Ottumwa
* Feb 10: “Osky Eggs & Issues” @ 8:30am at Smokey Row in Oskaloosa.
* Feb 17: “Legislative Coffee” @ 10am 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.
