February 23, 2006

HIGHLITES FROM THE SENATE

SENATOR MARK ZIEMAN

The rush is on to get senate files through committees. Next week any bill that has not cleared this “funnel” dies in committee. There are a few exceptions. Bills in Appropriations or Ways and Means committees are funnel proof. In addition, legislation sponsored by senate leaders will remain viable. It is important that the rules governing this legislative process are observed, otherwise we would be here year round!

We continue to work with the governor and our colleagues across the aisle to find common ground on the education issues we face. We are working toward a “pay-for-performance” system that will reward good teachers. I have stressed that this system will be useless if it means more paper work for teachers, at the expense of time spent in the classroom. Along with these issues, we want to provide incentives to encourage school districts to share administrative services. We must identify ways for our K – 3 students to achieve their goals or not advance until they do. We are working to provide more funding that would encourage teachers to specialize in subject areas where qualified teachers are currently in short supply.

Iowa must position itself to compete successfully not just with our neighbors, but with all the countries of the world. With this in mind, we need education reform based on high standards, qualified teachers and more accountability. By implementing these changes, our students will be better prepared to effectively compete in today’s global society.

Two bills awaiting the governor’s signature relate to election reform. The bills allow for more than one polling site per room and give the county auditors flexibility to produce a more effective and streamlined election process. I want to thank the County Auditors Association and the Association of Counties for their work on these two bills. Their unified efforts ensured swift passage of this legislation.

Representative Gipp and I will be hosting a legislative forum on Saturday, March 4th. Please join us in Burr Oak at the Merchantile and Country Café from 9 to 10 a.m.

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