Iowa House Bill HF730

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/3/23

Caption

A bill for an act relating to and making appropriations from the rebuild Iowa infrastructure fund and technology reinvestment fund, establishing a destination Iowa fund, providing for related matters, and including effective date provisions.(Formerly HSB 253.)

Impact

The creation of the Destination Iowa Fund within House File 730 is intended to revitalize rural economies by promoting tourism and recreational projects. Grants from this fund will prioritize new construction projects while allowing for a reallocation of unused funds to ensure that rural communities directly benefit from state appropriations. It is expected that these initiatives will not only attract more visitors to rural areas but also generate economic growth through improved local infrastructure and public amenities.

Summary

House File 730 seeks to make appropriations from two vital state financial sources—the rebuild Iowa infrastructure fund and the technology reinvestment fund. Among its notable provisions, the bill establishes a new initiative known as the Destination Iowa Fund. This fund is designed to support cities, counties, and non-profit organizations in funding projects that enhance tourism opportunities and outdoor recreation while improving quality of life in rural communities, defined as those with populations below 20,000. The bill emphasizes support for projects focusing on primarily vertical infrastructure that is publicly accessible year-round.

Contention

While the bill is largely anticipated to bolster rural economies, it does not come without concerns. Critics may argue that focusing on tourism and outdoor recreation might divert funds and attention away from other pressing needs of rural communities, such as healthcare, education, and job training. Furthermore, there may be debates concerning the eligibility criteria for grant applications and the effectiveness of the proposed projects in genuinely addressing the economic challenges faced by rural areas.