Capitol police were in full force this week looking out for the safety of the legislators and everyone inside of the capitol. The increase of State Patrol officers were present due to the number of protesters protesting outside of the chambers and committee meetings. This week, two major bills were in committees regarding Chapter 20 and sanctuary cities. Both could possibly come to the floor as early as next week.

Chapter 20-

Chapter 20 of the Iowa code relates to public workers. The portion that many people are concerned about is the portion that allows public workers to negotiate their salaries. Rep. Ralph Watts (R-Dallas) wrote in his newsletter this week, “The changes proposed in this collective bargaining bill will allow local schools, cities, and counties more flexibility in dealing with their workforce and local issues related to their budgets. It makes no changes in the IPERS retirement and while a statewide pool is being considered for insurance, the law requires health insurance to be provided for state employees.” Republican lawmakers say they understand the unease, but feel this is the best for education and all public workers.

Sanctuary Cities-

The Des Moines Register reports the legislation prohibits enacting sanctuary cities, which are municipalities that have adopted policies limiting local cooperation with federal immigration officials in some way.  Iowans packed the committee room this week to protest this bill sponsored by Rep. Steve Holt (R-Crawford. Multiple people were removed from the meeting from chairman Rep. Clel Baudler (R- Adair). You can watch Rep. Holt’s closing remarks regarding HF265  here:  https://www.facebook.com/steven.holt.526/videos/748568271985679/