Update From the House for District 80
by Holly Brink
Hello friends,
It has been a great and very busy second week here on the hill! I am continuing to enjoy the fast-paced environment and all the different people and topics I get to interact with and learn from. This week held many committee meetings and lots of good discussions along with meeting and hearing from different groups as well.
I was also named chair of the new Technology Subcommittee for Appropriations. This subcommittee with be addressing and working towards 3 main issues with the states current technology system. I look forward to leading, learning and working with the other members on this subcommittee on these issues and creating a plan for the future.
In the Education Committee, we heard from the Iowa Department of Education Director Ryan Wise about their programs and objectives for this year. It was great to understand more about education is implemented in our state and how we as legislators can come alongside the Department of Education and help to further their goals.
During our Human Resources committee meeting, we discussed House Study Bill 501, a bill about insurance coverage for prescription insulin. We also heard a presentation from the Department of Public health on 1st Five.
As an Assistant Majority Leader for the House, I have had the opportunity to sit in on great discussions this week. Looking more at the Governor’s budget proposal and discuss priorities from members of our caucus. Monday I will be having my first quadrant meeting to discuss and collaborate with the 20 members of my quadrant on what we heard over the weekend.
This morning, I met with Wade Riedinger and Maddie Miller from the Iowa Alliance of YMCAs. We discussed their legislative priorities for this session, specifically the importance of legislation pertaining to childcare and the changes they feel need to be made regarding that. It was great to talk with them!
I also took part in a panel with 2 other legislators to hear from the ACEs of Iowa Policy Coalition about their purposes and legislative priorities.
As always, I truly appreciate your support, prayers, and feedback! Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or suggestions. Thank you all!
