March 16, 2012
The first policy bill I authored this year passed through the Iowa Senate chambers on Tuesday. In order to receive veteran discounts at stores, veterans must prove status. It is irrational to believe these individuals must carry around their DD214 and Discharge Certificates to receive a 10% discount at a local business. These documents are as important as birth certificates. Therefore, Senate File 2037 allows the word "Veteran" to appear on a driver's license or a state issued ID to serve the same purpose. Keep your DD214 in the lock box from now on!
The second funnel deadline appeared on Thursday which means any bill which has not passed one of the chambers and a committee in the other chamber is no longer available for discussion. Think of this as a taxpayer protection rule. This means all the wish list bills are now dead.
Budget bills have stalled as the House, Senate and governor's office are showing off to each other like peacocks displaying their feathers. No one is ready to start the fight but the cards have clearly been displayed. As a result there was still time this week to move through a series of "post-card" bills. These are bills which sound good in theory and great to use as campaign fodder, however, in true application they are difficult to enforce.
The Iowa Senate passed a series of preservation clauses to buy American products and employ Iowa businesses in government contracts. Though I whole-heartedly agree with the concept of these bills we must watch states like Illinois establishing the same protectionist clauses against Iowa companies. These bills have the greatest impact upon the interstate commerce of companies on our borders. Think of an Illinois company receiving a 5% leeway on bidding against Iowa companies. Also, I fully support U.S. steel used in construction projects, however we must take on the bigger issue that steel refineries have largely been exported. We are now feeling the drastic effects of businesses moving overseas.
The Iowa Senate also passed a bill allowing online gambling in virtual poker rooms with real money. As I have never been a fan of gaming I simply caution on the extent which online gaming may go to in the future. There is a possibility to move to betting on sporting events and even political races. Sometimes, like with touch-play machines, you get more than what you asked for.
Next week the Senate will return to debate on education reform. I look forward to sending you an update. Thank you for the opportunity to serve in the Iowa Senate.
For more information please visit www.shawnhamerlinck.com.
Shawn Hamerlinck
State Senator
District 42
