While inflation and economic uncertainty force Iowans to cut back, local governments have given themselves permission to spend. Their appetite for collecting and expending dollars is insatiable, ignoring state government’s lead to prioritize tax relief and demanding instead that families hand over more and more of their money in property taxes. 

This backwards situation is straining personal livelihoods and family budgets, jeopardizing communities’ opportunities, and eroding taxpayers’ trust in the leaders they have elected. 

As Iowans struggle to get by and wonder why government keeps coming back to them for more, Iowans for Tax Relief is raising the question that taxpayers deserve an honest answer to: Who is government really serving? 

Iowans for Tax Relief exists to make sure the answer is the right one. 

Our Model for Change:

The Taxpayer’s Voice Inside the Capitol 

Iowans for Tax Relief, 501(c)(4)

ITR is our advocacy and lobbying arm, which engages with lawmakers and the governor’s office to turn our Foundation’s researched policy ideas into good laws. 

ITR’s president is Iowa’s former House Majority Leader, and our lobbyists are veterans of the Iowa Capitol. One is a former state representative, and the other is a former chief of staff to the Senate president. From legislative testimony to private discussions with lawmakers, ITR’s voice is the one that conservative circles listen to most when it comes to fiscal matters.

The Arsenal of Policy Ideas That Work for Taxpayers 

Iowans for Tax Relief Foundation, 501(c)(3)

ITR Foundation (ITRF) generates intellectual ammunition to bolster the case for tax and spending reform. ITRF produces credible research and solutions that will move the needle and educates elected officials and taxpayers so that they understand the problems and how to solve them. ITRF promotes good policy ideas through outreach and communication across the state, with our pieces regularly being published in the state’s largest newspapers and national media outlets.

Electing Leaders With Taxpayers’ Interests at Heart 

Iowans for Tax Relief PAC

The best taxpayer protection is electing leaders who put family budgets ahead of government spending. 

ITR PAC exists to make sure pro-taxpayer candidates get elected—and re-elected. PAC contributions play a direct role in the election process and are a significant way we acknowledge and support legislators who have stood up for taxpayers. 

Local Government: Cities, Counties, and Schools

ITR Local lets you find out how city, county, and school government spending has impacted YOUR property tax bill.

Why does your property tax bill grow? There is only one reason – local government spending.

How Are Iowa’s Schools Doing?

ITR Report Card gives parents, school board members, and taxpayers clear, easy-to-use data on student achievement and school spending across Iowa.

Use this site to compare academic performance, track trends, and start conversations that drive real improvement for students—while ensuring responsible use of public dollars.