Iowa 2025-2026 Regular Session

Iowa Senate Bill SF645

Caption

A bill for an act relating to and making appropriations for the economic development of the state, including to the economic development authority, Iowa finance authority, department of workforce development, and the state board of regents and certain regents institutions.(Formerly SSB 1236.)

Impact

This bill aims to create a more robust economic framework by providing resources for job creation initiatives, workforce development programs, and community college education. It outlines specific appropriations for adult education and literacy programs and grants for community colleges to offer English as a second language instruction. These initiatives are designed to meet local labor needs and prepare Iowans for high-demand careers, thereby fostering a more skilled and adaptable workforce.

Summary

Senate File 645 is a legislative measure passed in Iowa that focuses on making appropriations for the economic development of the state for the fiscal year 2025-2026. The bill allocates funding to various state entities, including the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA), the Iowa Finance Authority (IFA), the Department of Workforce Development (IWD), and state universities. One of its primary goals is to enhance the state's economic growth and population retention by supporting initiatives that provide sustainable job opportunities and improve the economic climate in Iowa.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SF645 include the appropriations for various programs and how effectively they address the pressing workforce shortages in key industries. There are discussions about the control and appropriate utilization of funds designated for business development, job recruitment efforts, and ensuring compliance with employment law for businesses receiving state assistance. Critics may argue that certain funding allocations might not have enough transparency or accountability measures attached to them, potentially undermining the overall efficacy of the proposed economic development strategies.

Companion Bills

IA SSB1236

Related A bill for an act relating to and making appropriations for the economic development of the state, including to the economic development authority, Iowa finance authority, department of workforce development, and the state board of regents and certain regents institutions.(See SF 645.)

IA HSB336

Related A bill for an act relating to and making appropriations for the economic development of the state, including to the economic development authority, Iowa finance authority, department of workforce development, and state board of regents and certain regents institutions, and eliminating the repeal of the housing renewal pilot program.

Similar Bills

IA SF2432

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. (Formerly SSB 3198.) Effective date: 07/01/2024.

IA SSB1223

A bill for an act relating to and making appropriations for the economic development of the state, including the economic development authority, Iowa finance authority, department of workforce development, and certain state board of regents institutions.

IA SSB3192

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.

IA SF559

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 modifying the housing renewal pilot program and provisions related to regional industry sector partnerships, the apprenticeship training program, and new jobs training agreements. (Formerly SSB 1211.) Effective date: 07/01/2023.

IA SSB1211

A bill for an act making appropriations 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 providing for properly related matters.(See SF 559.)

IA SSB1236

A bill for an act relating to and making appropriations for the economic development of the state, including to the economic development authority, Iowa finance authority, department of workforce development, and the state board of regents and certain regents institutions.(See SF 645.)

IA HF2697

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 providing for properly related matters including membership in councils of governments.

IA HSB336

A bill for an act relating to and making appropriations for the economic development of the state, including to the economic development authority, Iowa finance authority, department of workforce development, and state board of regents and certain regents institutions, and eliminating the repeal of the housing renewal pilot program.