March 24, 2005

HIGHLITES FROM THE SENATE

SENATOR MARK ZIEMAN

Spring arrived this past week, but that event did not improve the climate in the legislature. The optimism we began this session with has faded as the evenly divided Senate approaches gridlock. In spite of this, discussions are occurring. The important issues will be debated and a budget will be approved.

A bill was assigned to the Ways and Means Committee this week that would aid the city of Newton with their quest to develop a thirty to forty million dollar raceway facility. Needless to say, there has been much excitement about the possibility of NASCAR type racing here in Iowa. The promoters of this proposal are requesting financial support from the state. This support will only kick-in if the state realizes sales tax revenue from this venture.

According to the Iowa Department of Revenue, you may soon have more money in your pocket. Beginning April 1, employers will be reducing the amount of Iowa taxes deducted from employees’ paychecks. The state is changing its withholding tax rates because there has been a significant imbalance between the amount of tax withheld from Iowans’ paychecks and the amount of tax actually owed. This is the first change in state withholding tax rates since 1998. Department officials say most taxpayers will see an increase in their take-home pay throughout the year; however, the size of the refund they receive after filing their 2005 tax returns will decrease.

On Tuesday morning, I enjoyed an egg omelet with 4-H members from Allamakee, Winneshiek and Howard counties at the State Historical Building. Because of their busy schedules it was not possible to invite them into the Chamber. The leadership provided by these young adults will serve us well in the future.

For further information or clarification, please contact me at the Capitol (515) 281-3371 or at my home (563) 864-3104.