Policy work continues after session's end

May 12, 2017 | Women in Manufacturing Nicole Crain, Senior Vice President, Public Policy, Iowa Association of Business and Industry, ncrain@iowaabi.org

The 2017 legislative session was historic for economic growth in Iowa. Legislation was passed and signed into law that will place Iowa employers and the hundreds of thousands of individuals they employ at a competitive advantage. Although the Legislature has adjourned, the work for ABI and its 1,500 member companies is just beginning.

This spring, ABI hosted regional meetings throughout the state to provide a recap of the session and help companies understand how legislation passed in 2017 will affect the employer community. Topics discussed included workers’ compensation reform, employment legislation, budget challenges, tax credit proposals and income tax reform. If you were not able to attend a regional meeting and would like to host an ABI public policy staff member to speak with businesses in your area, let us know. We would be happy to come to your community.

Additionally, take time this summer to invite your local legislator to your place of business. Give them a tour and provide them an opportunity to meet your employees and ask questions about your operations. Legislators vote on many bills each year, and although ABI educates them on the impact the legislation has on the ability to create jobs and keep businesses in Iowa, those things are only realized if they are able to connect with you personally. If you need help setting up a meeting with your legislator, please let us know and we will connect you.

At ABI, we are always thinking ahead for ways to help Iowa businesses succeed. Next month, the Capitol Business column will feature other ways for you to get involved with ABI public policy efforts. It’s never too early to begin preparations.

In the meantime, make sure to mark your calendars for our August committee meetings, where we’ll begin preparations for the 2018 legislative session. For more ways to get involved visit our website at www.iowaabi.org