Jan 24, 2025

This Week at the Statehouse

Kickoff of the 91st General Assembly: Campus Recap

The 91st General Assembly kicked off last week, and it was an exciting start to the legislative session. At the University of Northern Iowa (UNI), we’ve been actively engaged as Iowa’s leaders began addressing the state’s most pressing challenges and opportunities. Here’s a recap of the key highlights and their impact on UNI:

Progress on Workforce Recruitment Initiative
UNI’s Workforce Recruitment Initiative received significant attention last week as part of Governor Reynolds’ FY26 budget proposal. This initiative, which seeks $3 million in funding, would allow UNI to offer in-state tuition rates to students from neighboring states, aiming to attract and retain talent to address Iowa’s workforce shortages. The initiative was part of the FY26 appropriation requests approved by the Board of Regents as a potential solution to Iowa’s workforce challenges, recognizing the economic impact of retaining talented graduates.

Governor’s Budget Proposal and UNI
We were encouraged to see several critical UNI priorities reflected in the Governor’s proposed budget:

  • A 2% general fund increase for UNI, supporting academic programs and student success.
  • $4.72 million to renovate the historic Commons building to create a new Center for Civic Education, a project that will advance civic engagement across Iowa.
  • $3 million to launch the Workforce Recruitment Initiative, expanding educational access and strengthening Iowa’s talent pipeline.

Monitoring and Engaging on Legislation

Since the start of session, legislators have begun introducing new legislation for consideration in the 91st General Assembly, including several proposals from the newly formed House Higher Education Committee. At the University of Northern Iowa, we are closely monitoring legislation that may affect our students, faculty, and campus priorities. As subcommittees begin reviewing these bills, we are committed to collaborating with lawmakers to ensure UNI’s voice is heard and to advocate for initiatives that support our mission and the future of Iowa’s workforce. For the list of bills the Board of Regents is monitoring as of January 23, please see below: 

  • HF 12 Medical Residency Positions
  • HF 34 Immunization Exemptions
  • HF 35 Vaccine Exemptions for Clinical Students
  • HF 36 Statute and Rule Interpretation
  • HF 61 Hospital Price Disclosures 
  • HF 97 Transition Program Scholarships 
  • HF 103 University Pregnancy Accommodations 
  • HF 115 School Funds and Visa Penalties 
  • HSB 6 In-state Tuition and Fees for Military 
  • HSB 9 Healthcare Assaults 
  • HSB 71 State Contract Language 
  • HSB 75 Public Meeting Notices 
  • HSB 76 Public Records Requests 
  • HSB 77 Complaints Timeline 
  • HSB 78 Paid Parental Leave
  • SF 2 Statute of Repose Exemption 
  • SF 6 Immunization Exemption Requirements 
  • SF 12 University Pregnancy Accommodations 
  • SF 14 Transition Program Scholarships 
  • SF 33 Law Enforcement Sick Leave 
  • SF 47 Public Expression Lawsuits 
  • SF 48 Serious Reportable Events 
  • SF 56 Right to Try 
  • SSB 1016 Prior Authorization
  • SSB 1017 PBA Reverse Actions 
  • SSB 1039 Surviving Spouses and Children 
  • SSB 1040 Paid Parental Leave