Iowa 2025-2026 Regular Session

Iowa Senate Bill SF640

Introduced
4/23/25  

Caption

A bill for an act relating to economic development by establishing the Iowa major events and tourism program and fund, modifying the sports tourism and marketing infrastructure program, and making appropriations.(Formerly SF 621.)

Impact

The bill is framed as a crucial component for economic development in Iowa, facilitating the attraction of notable tourism-oriented events, such as sporting contests, conventions, and festivals. By establishing a fund dedicated to these initiatives with an appropriation of $15 million for the fiscal year 2025-2026, the state aims to bolster its economy, create jobs, and increase visitor spending, thereby stimulating local economies. Entities receiving funds are also required to contribute matching funds to ensure shared investment in such projects.

Summary

Senate File 640 aims to establish the Iowa Major Events and Tourism Program and Fund, providing financial assistance for events that can generate significant attendance and publicity within the state. This bill modifies the existing sports tourism and marketing infrastructure program and outlines specific eligibility criteria for entities looking to receive funding. Under the proposed legislation, entities must demonstrate their involvement in the event bidding process, as well as submit an economic analysis regarding projected attendance and occupancy rates for hotels and motels during events.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support for its potential to enhance Iowa's profile as a desirable location for major events, there are concerns regarding the repeal of the existing sports tourism marketing program. Critics argue that this could reduce awareness and promotion of Iowa as an event host, potentially limiting the number of events that could have beneficial economic impacts. Furthermore, there are ongoing discussions about the long-term sustainability of funding, as clear metrics for success in attracting substantial events have not been firmly established.

Companion Bills

IA SF621

Similar To A bill for an act relating to economic development by establishing the Iowa major events and tourism program and fund, modifying the sports tourism and marketing infrastructure program, and making appropriations.(See SF 640.)

Previously Filed As

IA SF2419

A bill for an act relating to economic development by establishing the Iowa major events and tourism program and fund, modifying the sports tourism and marketing infrastructure program, and making appropriations.(Formerly SF 2394.)

IA SF2394

A bill for an act relating to economic development by establishing the Iowa major events and tourism program and fund, modifying the sports tourism and marketing infrastructure program, and making appropriations.(See SF 2419.)

IA HF2662

A bill for an act establishing the Iowa film production incentive program and fund within the economic development authority. (Formerly HSB 731.)

IA HF642

A bill for an act establishing the major economic growth attraction program to be administered by the economic development authority, and providing penalties.(Formerly HSB 147.)

IA SF574

A bill for an act relating to programs administered by the economic development authority by establishing the economic growth attraction program, modifying the certified site and high-quality jobs programs, making appropriations, providing penalties, and including effective date provisions. (Formerly SSB 1162.) Effective date: 05/10/2024.

IA SF2413

A bill for an act creating a jobs and infrastructure revolving fund and program administered by the Iowa finance authority.(Formerly SF 2133.)

IA HF2599

A bill for an act creating a grocer reinvestment program, a local produce processing grant program, and a grocer reinvestment and local food processing fund under the purview of the economic development authority, modifying the local food and farm program, and making appropriations.(Formerly HF 2176.)

IA SF2133

A bill for an act creating a jobs and infrastructure revolving fund and program administered by the Iowa finance authority, and making appropriations.(See SF 2413.)

IA HF725

A bill for an act relating to and making appropriations for the economic development of the state, including to the economic development authority, the Iowa finance authority, the public employment relations board, the department of workforce development, and the state board of regents and certain regents institutions, and by modifying provisions relating to the pathways for academic career and employment program, the apprenticeship training program, and new jobs training agreements.(Formerly HSB 249.)

IA HF2176

A bill for an act creating a grocer reinvestment fund and program under the purview of the economic development authority, modifying the local food and farm program, and making appropriations.(See HF 2599.)

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