IA
Iowa House Bill HJR8

Iowa 2025-2026 Regular Session

Iowa House Bill HJR8

Introduced
2/25/25  

Caption

A joint resolution relating to the placement of a statue in the United States capitol honoring Governor Robert D. Ray, and making appropriations.

Impact

The passage of HJR8 will have implications on state history recognition, particularly emphasizing Governor Ray's legacy. It establishes a seven-member committee tasked with facilitating the statue exchange, including fundraising for the new statue and its installation. Furthermore, any leftover funds will be used for the maintenance of Kirkwood's statue, ensuring its continued preservation within Iowa's Capitol. This change is emblematic of state pride and the acknowledgment of impactful leadership in Iowa's history.

Summary

House Joint Resolution 8 (HJR8) proposes to replace the existing statue of Samuel J. Kirkwood in the United States Capitol with a statue honoring former Governor Robert D. Ray. This resolution stems from Iowa's ability to display two statues of notable citizens in the Capitol and allows for replacements if sanctioned by the legislature and governor. Governor Ray, who served as Iowa's 38th governor, is recognized for his vast contributions to the state, including significant reforms and social programs, especially regarding refugee resettlement and indigenous protections.

Contention

Notably, there may be points of contention regarding the decision to replace the Kirkwood statue, as some may view it as an alteration of historical representation. Additionally, the funding and management of the statue replacement process are contingent upon donations, which could raise concerns about the financial viability of this initiative. Discussions around public sentiment towards memorializing historical figures in such significant locations may also emerge as the bill progresses through the legislative process.

Latest IA HJR8 Activity

View All Events: IA 2025-2026 Regular Session HJR8

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

IA HSB711

A bill for an act relating to the powers, duties, and responsibilities of state government entities associated with the budget, financial control, and information technology, making penalties applicable, and making appropriations.

IA HSB710

A bill for an act relating to boards, commissions, committees, councils, and other entities of state government, and including transition provisions.(See HF 2574.)

IA HF2574

A bill for an act relating to boards, commissions, committees, councils, and other entities of state government, and including transition provisions.(Formerly HSB 710.)

IA HSB695

A bill for an act relating to the powers, duties, and responsibilities of state government entities associated with the budget, financial control, and information technology, making penalties applicable, and making appropriations.(See HF 2622, HF 2708.)

IA SSB3173

A bill for an act relating to the powers, duties, and responsibilities of state government entities associated with the budget, financial control, and information technology, making penalties applicable, and making appropriations.(See SF 2375, SF 2409.)

IA SF2409

A bill for an act relating to the powers, duties, and responsibilities of state government entities associated with the budget, financial control, and information technology, making penalties applicable, and making appropriations.(Formerly SF 2375, SSB 3173.)

IA HF2622

A bill for an act relating to the powers, duties, and responsibilities of state government entities associated with the budget, financial control, and information technology, making penalties applicable, and making appropriations.(Formerly HSB 695; See HF 2708.)

IA SF2375

A bill for an act relating to the powers, duties, and responsibilities of state government entities associated with the budget, financial control, and information technology, making penalties applicable, and making appropriations.(Formerly SSB 3173; See SF 2409.)

IA SSB3202

A bill for an act relating to and making appropriations from the rebuild Iowa infrastructure fund and technology reinvestment fund, providing for related matters, and including effective date provisions.(See SF 2438.)

IA SSB3172

A bill for an act relating to boards, commissions, committees, councils, and other entities of state government, and including effective date and transition provisions.(See SF 2385.)

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