Senate passes Gov. Reynolds' state government restructuring plan
In a 34-15 vote, the Iowa Senate voted to pass Gov. Kim Reynolds' 1,500-page proposal to restructure Iowa's government on March 7.
, which was previously numbered as SSB 1123, would make Iowa's government smaller, reducing the number of state agencies from 37 to 16.
The governor and other Iowa Republicans argue this is necessary to streamline Iowa's government and make it more efficient for Iowa taxpayers.
But Democrats have raised several concerns on this bill. The bill is more than 1,500 pages long. And some worry that there are small pieces tucked into the bill that will have unintended consequences, taking needed services away from Iowans.
Blind Iowans have pushed back on the plan, in which the governor would be in charge of appointing the director for the Iowa Department for the Blind. Currently, the Iowa Commission for the Blind appoints the director. Blind Iowans are worried that the change would make their department political and leave their voices out of the process.
One legally blind high school student shared her disappointment and her messages for lawmakers.
"Under this new reconstruction plan, I just worry that all of the backbone to the Department for the Blind is and everything they stand for is going to get pushed to the side for a political agenda," Olivia Midcalf said.
Reynolds released the following statement after the plan passed the Senate:
"Serving the needs of Iowans efficiently and effectively is the state government’s primary responsibility, and Iowans rightfully expect nothing less. Government alignment proposes the type of commonsense, fiscally responsible change that will improve how the executive branch works together, elevate services for Iowans, and save taxpayers a projected $215 million over the next four years. For too long politicians have only promised to reduce the size and cost of government, but today the Iowa Senate took an important step forward to making it a reality. I look forward to getting this bill across the finish line in the House and to my desk."
Above video: Iowa Senate debates several major bills
