1. Last week, Tom Lane, Kate Walton and Matt Eide focused on the operational sharing equity bill. We've made tremendous progress and only a couple of hurdles remain. It's possible our language will be added to the existing operational sharing update bill that passed the House in 2017 and is currently in the Senate.
2. Although the Republican leaders have not announced an SSA (Supplemental State Aid) figure, most analysts are estimating an increase of no more than 1%.
3. There is traction on SAVE (Secure an Advanced Vision for Education) this year. Education Appropriations Co-Chair, Rep. Cecil Dolecheck (R-Mt. Ayr), has publicly stated that he favors an extension.
4. Subcommittees were held on bills that would eliminate the Iowa Department of Education and eliminate the current desegregation plan that applies to five school districts. There was significant discussion but no votes were taken.
5. The Legislature will act on a de-appropriation bill in the very near future. The larger cuts will be focused on Medicaid, Regents institutions and community colleges.
6. We welcome the experience and expertise that Brent Siegrist will bring to us in his new role.
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