Lawmakers had different opinions on the importance of tax policy and what, if any, proposals should advance. These differences could have easily killed tax reform altogether, but ITR and taxpayer voices from across the state stoked the fire to keep the possibility alive. 

In the last election, Iowans clearly voted for a conservative government. However, despite these election victories, tax reform was never guaranteed.

Even with conservative control of the executive and legislative branches of Iowa's government, there were different opinions on the importance of tax policy and what, if any, proposals should advance. These differences could have easily killed tax reform altogether, but ITR and taxpayer voices from across the state stoked the fire to keep the possibility alive.

Before the session even started, ITR had the opportunity to participate in the governor's pre-session budget hearing. ITR Vice President Chris Hagenow had one main request: Remove the triggers and allow new, lower rates to take effect.

The governor shared our vision of tax policy and included it in her condition of the state address. The Iowa Senate passed multiple bills that would deliver various tax cuts. Our lobbyist at the Capitol kept informing legislators. We hosted a virtual tax day luncheon with House and Senate leaders. You received weekly updates in our email newsletter. ITR sent direct mail across the state urging taxpayers to make their voices heard.

All this hard work resulted in significant tax relief for Iowans.

This legislative session ended with the passage of bills addressing a wide range of conservative issues, including individual liberty, protecting life, education, gun rights, and law enforcement. While these issues are important, ITR’s mission is focused on lower taxes, less government spending, and fewer regulations.

At our Tax Day luncheon a few years ago, Governor Kim Reynolds said, "When ITR is at the Capitol, they do not represent one business or industry. They represent ALL Iowa taxpayers."

Governor Reynolds was right, and ALL Iowans will see a more limited government because of good work from the governor, the Iowa Senate, and the Iowa House.

Taxpayer Victories:

Here is a list of issues ITR took a stand for at the Capitol that ended with victories for Iowa taxpayers:

Work Left to Do:

A few issues ITR supported didn't make it to the finish line. This session was the first of the two-year General Assembly. If the legislation passed out of one full chamber this year, it does not have to go through that same chamber next year.

Here is a list of ITR issues with work left to do: