Governor Calls Special Election

Amy Campbell on September 29, 2026

The Governor has called a special session for Friday, October 2 in order to provide incentives for the $15 billion steel mill locating in SE Iowa.  By law, the Governor must state the cause for the special session and debate is limited to the topic designated by the Governor.  The Governor’s proclamation is limited to changes to the state’s existing Major Economic Growth Attraction (MEGA) program – and no other topics.  While we have heard rumors that legislators would like to consider other items, any additional laws passed beyond what is in the Governor’s proclamation would likely end up in court.

The changes the Governor is asking legislators to consider to the existing MEGA program allow use in a rural county and authorize a refundable tax credit up to 10% of the investment spread out equally over a ten year period.

Typically legislators in both parties have been concerned about refundable tax credits to companies, so that could be an issue when the special session convenes. We have heard several legislators in both parties are uncomfortable with the size of this offering, the refundability of the tax credit, and the Governor’s desire to allow it to be transferable if the business is bought out.

Check the blog on October 2 – we’ll post updates from the Capitol.

Constitutional Amendment Requires Supermajority for Tax Increases

Amy Campbell on April 24, 2026

Without any discussion in 2026, the Iowa House of Representatives has decided to revive SJR 11 in the final week of the legislative session. This resolution proposes an amendment to the Iowa Constitution, and since this would be its second passage, it would go to the voters this November!

SJR 11 requires a supermajority of both the House and Senate to approve an individual or corporate income tax increase. LWVIA opposes this bill because it unfairly ties the hands of future Legislatures and Governors, who were elected to represent the interests of their constituents.

What Can You Do?

  • Attend the subcommittee meeting on Monday, 4/27 at 12:30 pm in the House Lounge, second floor of the State Capitol. While you cannot participate virtually, you can listen/watch the subcommittee here or by calling in (1-408-418-9388; Access Code: 24870830912).
  • You can submit your comments online (they are public but can be anonymous) at any time before the subcommittee here.
  • You can email the subcommittee members (John Wills – [email protected]; Carter Nordman – [email protected]; David Jacoby – [email protected]).
  • You can email the committee members here.
  • You can email your Representative here.

Advocacy now saves a lot of voter education later!