SENATOR MARK ZIEMAN

This week proved to be interesting at best. The majority party had promised that they wanted to work with the minority, at least keeping us apprised of legislative developments. They also had assured us that any legislation brought forward would be transparent so all the public could see. On Wednesday that promise was broken. Senate tradition was also compromised when a motion to defer on a bill was refused.

Funding for education takes 60% of the state’s budget. We as a legislature want to raise teachers’ salaries, but expect much improved student achievement in return. An eighteen page bill addressing teachers’ compensation was introduced for debate. We had an opportunity to review the bill before meeting in committee. To our surprise, a seventeen page amendment was offered that called for additional spending of $180 million, as well as unfunded mandates, licensure of all school administrators and higher property taxes for Iowans. Every man, woman and child in our state would be on the hook for $60 each year as a result of this proposal. Senator Zaun requested the bill and amendment be deferred so the ramifications of the amendment could be determined. The deferral, which is normally granted without question, was denied. The bill was railroaded through committee with no input from our school boards or superintendents.

As I now understand the amendment, teacher quality and accountability language would be greatly compromised. It provides no measure of student achievement. The bill will see further debate, but has not had any input from the parties affected.

Plan to attend the town meeting that Rep. Quirk and I will be hosting on Saturday, March 3^rd. We will be at the Farm Bureau Office in New Hampton from 9 to 10 A.M. Bring your questions and ideas to share with us.

SENATOR MARK ZIEMAN

Senate District 8

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