The Iowa Legislature returned to the Statehouse on Saturday to complete legislative work that remained pending after the chamber missed its constitutional adjournment date earlier in the week. The extended session comes as lawmakers work to finalize several major policy items before the session concludes.
Among the issues under consideration is a budget of approximately $9.5 billion for the coming fiscal year. Lawmakers are also deliberating property tax reform measures, restrictions on the use of eminent domain authority by private companies—including language that would address the proposed carbon sequestration pipeline—and proposed tax increases on vaping and smoking products as well as gasoline.
Not all legislators participated in the weekend work. Fifteen of the 100 members of the Iowa House were absent, citing health concerns, family obligations, or business commitments. In the Iowa Senate, six of 50 members did not attend the session.
The additional work carries no financial compensation for legislators. Members of the Iowa Legislature receive an annual salary of $25,000 regardless of session length or extended duties.
