Rep. Jeff Shipley
Shipley Was The Only Legislator To Oppose Increasing The Largest Funding Source For Iowa’s Public School Districts And One Of Three To Oppose A One Cent Sales Tax To Renovate More Than A Dozen Elementary Schools And Eventually Generate Over A Half Billion For Schools Annually
Shipley Voted Against A One Cent Sales Tax To Renovate More Than A Dozen Elementary Schools And Eventually Generate Over A Half Billion Annually For Schools To Fund Safety Improvements, Technology, And Air Conditioning To Lose Less Days To Extreme Temperatures
The Iowa House Passed A Bill To Support School Projects And Property Tax Relief By Extending A One Cent Sales Tax By A Margin Of 96-3. “A 20-year extension of a 1-cent sales tax to support school projects and property tax relief is halfway to the finish line following passage Wednesday by the Iowa House. Originally passed in 2008, SAVE — short for Secure an Advanced Vision for Education — will expire in 2029 if legislators don’t act to extend it. However, House File 546 to continue the sales tax until 2051 was approved 96-3 and now goes to the Senate.” [The Gazette, 3/13/19]
In Fiscal 2018, The Tax Raised $471 Million For Iowa Schools Or About $972 Per Student. “In fiscal 2018, SAVE raised $471 million for Iowa schools or about $972 per student. SAVE raised about $600 million this fiscal year and is projected to net about $800 million in 2049, according to the Iowa Association of School Boards.” [The Gazette, 3/13/19]
Legislative Services Agency: The Tax Would Generate $520 Million For Schools In 2051. “At same time, SAVE generated $10 million for property tax relief and, according to the Legislative Services Agency projections, will generate $520 million for schools in 2051 and $71.5 million for property tax relief.” [The Gazette, 3/13/19]
The “Secure An Advanced Vision For Education” Tax Funded School Safety Improvements, Technology, Art And Science Labs, Fine Arts Facilities And Air Conditioning To Lessen Days Lost To Extreme Temperatures. “Originally passed in 2008, SAVE — short for Secure an Advanced Vision for Education — will expire in 2029 if legislators don’t act to extend it. […] The 20-year time frame of the original law coincided with the typical 20-year property tax-backed school bond. Since then, SAVE funds have been used for school safety improvements, technology, art and science labs, fine arts facilities, air conditioning to lessen days lost to extreme temperatures and to reduce property taxes, according to its advocates.” [The Gazette, 3/13/19]
The Cedar Rapids Community School District Was Relying On A SAVE Extension To Build Or Renovate 13 Elementary Schools. “The Cedar Rapids Community School District, where enrollment has dropped, also is relying on a SAVE extension to pay for a sweeping 20-year facilities plan that would close eight elementary schools and build or renovate 13 larger elementaries.” [The Gazette, 3/13/19]
School Boards Said They Were Feeling The Impact Of A Shortened Bonding Stream And Extending SAVE Would Allow Districts To Take Advantage Of Low Interest Rates. “Because SAVE will expire in 2029 without action, school boards say they already are feeling the impact of a shortened bonding stream. Extending SAVE would allow districts to take advantage of low interest rates.” [The Gazette, 3/13/19]
Shipley Was One Of Three Legislators To Oppose The Extension. “Republican Reps. Skyler Wheeler of Orange City, Jeff Shipley of Fairfield and Phil Thompson of Jefferson opposed the extension.” [The Gazette, 3/13/19]
By A Vote Of 99-1, Shipley Was The Only Legislator To Oppose A 2.5% Increase In State Supplemental Aid For Education To Save School Districts From Having To Cut Millions From Its Budget And Lay Off Staff
State Supplemental Aid For Education Was The Largest Funding Source For Iowa’s Public School Districts, Which Were Nearing A Breaking Point After A String Of Only Small Education Funding Increases From The State
Senate File 2142 Provided An Increase Of Over $85 Million In State Supplemental Aid For Education, Which Was The Largest Funding Source For Iowa’s 327 Public School Districts. “Both chambers of the Iowa Legislature on Wednesday approved a 2.3 percent increase — about $85.6 million — to state supplemental aid for education, the largest funding source for Iowa’s 327 public school districts. […] Legislators’ approval sent Senate File 2142 to the desk of Gov. Kim Reynolds, who proposed a slightly larger 2.5 percent increase in her Condition of the State address in January. She is expected to sign the legislation.” [The Gazette, 3/4/20]
The Head Of The State’s Second-Largest District, Cedar Rapids Community School District Superintendent Noreen Bush, Expressed Concern That A String Of Small Education Funding Increases From The State Would Push The District’s Budget To A Breaking Point As Soon As 2021. “In the Cedar Rapids Community School District, the funding level will sustain the district for now, said Superintendent Noreen Bush, who heads the state’s second-largest district. But she worried a string of small education funding increases from the state will push the district’s budget to a breaking point as soon as 2021. ‘Over the long term, we won’t be able to continue to sustain with that kind of state supplemental aid,’ said Bush, who advocated with the Urban Education Network of Iowa for a 3.75 percent increase. ‘... This is the general fund — we’re talking about people. This is about our people and how we best serve kids through staffing.[’]” [The Gazette, 3/4/20]
The Legislature’s 2019 Increase Of Only 2.1 Percent Forced The Iowa City District Cut Millions From Its Budget, Primarily By Reducing Staff At Its Schools. “Last year, the Iowa City district cut millions from its budget — primarily by reducing staff at its schools — when the Legislature increased school funding by only 2.1 percent.” [The Gazette, 3/4/20]
● Iowa City Community School District Asked Legislators For A 4.5 Percent Increase To Meet Growing Costs. “Stephen Murley, superintendent of Iowa City Community School District, was pragmatic — if cynical — about the funding level. ‘We’ll make do with what they give us,’ Murley said, whose district asked legislators for a 4.5 percent increase to meet growing costs. ‘That’s what we’ve had to do for the last decade.’” [The Gazette, 3/4/20]
Republicans Passed A Bill With Only A 2.3% Funding Increase, Which Democrats Opposed Because Senate Republicans Cut The House’s Amended Increase By Half Shipley Was The Only Republican To Oppose A 2.3% Increase
Democrats Voted Against The Bill, Which Ultimately Advanced A 2.3% Increase. “In the Senate, legislators voted 31-17 along party lines — with Republicans in favor — to approve the 2.3 percent increase, which would boost the amount spent on each student from the current $6,880 each to $7,048 for the 2020-21 school year. The measure passed in the House as well, though not along party lines.” [The Gazette, 3/4/20]
● A Republican Senate Amendment To Senate File 2142 Lowered The Bill’s Allotted State Percent Of Growth For The Budget Year From 2.5% To 2.3%. “S-5005[:] Amend the House amendment, S-5005, to Senate File 2142, as passed by the Senate, as follows: Page 1, line 3, by striking
o Shipley Was The Only Republican To Oppose A 2.3% Increase. “The measure passed in the House as well, though not along party lines. Rep. Jeff Shipley, R-Fairfield, voted against the legislation, which passed in a 51-46 vote.” [The Gazette, 3/4/20]
Democrats Wanted At Least A 3% Increase To Keep Up With Inflation And Called the GOP Compromise An Inadequate Funding Level That Shortchanged Students. “However, minority Democrats — who wanted at least a 3 percent increase to keep up with inflation — called the GOP compromise an inadequate funding level that shortchanges students and a failure to meet the Feb. 13 deadline for setting the state level.” [The Gazette, 3/4/20]
Every House Legislator Except Shipley Had Voted To Increase The State Funding To 2.5%, Up From 2.1%
A Republican House Amendment To Senate File 2142 Raised The Bill’s Allotted State Percent Of Growth For The Budget Year From 2.1% To 2.5%. “H-8011[:] Amend Senate File 2142, as passed by the Senate, as follows: 1. Page 1, line 10, by striking
Shipley Was The Only Legislator To Vote Against It. “On the question ‘Shall amendment H–8011 be adopted?’ (S.F. 2142)[:] The ayes were, 99 […] The nays were, 1: Shipley” [Amendment H-8011 to Senate File 2142, 2020 Session, 2/11/20]
After Iowa Republicans Passed ALEC Model Legislation To Implement Red Tape Requirements Making It Harder For Those Sick Due To Asbestos Exposure To Hold Companies Accountable, Shipley Voted To Install More Obstacles In 2020 2017: Iowa Republicans Passed Legislation To Limit Asbestos-Related Liability Lawsuits Using Model Legislation Recycled From Several Other States, Crafted By The Industry- Sponsored, Koch-Supported, Influence-Peddling American Legislative Exchange Council
The Bill Imposed A 90 Day Window After The Filing Of An Asbestos Claim In Which Plaintiffs Had To Provide Certain Information Or Their Case Could Be Dismissed For Noncompliance
Iowa Senate File 376, Introduced In 2017, Was One Of At Least A Dozen Enacted Laws Since 2011 Based On Model Legislation Called The “Asbestos Claims Transparency Act” From The American Legislative Exchange Council. “Model legislation from the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC), which is also called the Asbestos Claims Transparency Act, includes many of the changes in the bill. Since 2011, at least twelve states have enacted similar laws. […] Iowa, Senate File 376 (2017)[.]” [Michigan House Fiscal Agency, 2/7/18]
The Iowa Bill To Limit Asbestos Lawsuits Contained Whole Passages That Were Lifted Word-For-Word From An ALEC Bill That Popped Up In At Least Eight Other States. “It was March 2017, and the Hiawatha Democrat speculated that a bill by Sen. Brad Zaun to limit asbestos lawsuits was based on language crafted by the conservative group American Legislative Exchange Council, or ALEC. ‘Where did this bill come from?’ Mathis asked. At one point, Zaun, R-Urbandale, said: ‘I have had no contact from ALEC or any other organization out there.’ The asbestos bill, which would get signed into law that year, did have whole passages that were word-for-word from an ALEC bill that popped up in at least eight other states.” [Des Moines Register, 4/4/19]
The Industry-Sponsored ALEC Was The Nation’s Best-Known Model-Bill Factory, Providing Conservative Republican Elected Officials Fill-In-The-Blank Legislation, Access To Campaign Donors And Networking Opportunities Where They Feted And Entertained Lawmakers And Their Families. “The American Legislative Exchange Council became the nation’s best-known ‘model’-bill factory over its four decades by providing more than fill-in-the-blank legislation. The industry-sponsored group has weathered controversy and flourished because it also offers conservative Republican elected officials a social network, access to campaign donors and a blueprint for how to accelerate their political careers. The networking takes place at ALEC's annual meetings, where the group fetes and entertains lawmakers and their families. Relationships are forged over drinks and dinners, where lawmakers sit alongside conservative luminaries and corporate chiefs.” [USA Today, 4/3/19]
● ALEC Was A Koch-Supported Organization. “Three decades after David Koch’s public steps into politics, analysts say, the Koch brothers’ money-fueled brand of libertarianism helped give rise to the Tea Party movement and strengthened the far-right wing of a resurgent Republican Party. […] Still, he and his brother acknowledged roles in founding and contributing money to Americans for Prosperity, the right-wing advocacy group that was widely reported to have provided logistical backing for the Tea Party and other organizations in election campaigns and the promotion of conservative causes. Among the groups they supported was the American Legislative Exchange Council, an organization of conservative state legislators and corporate lobbyists. Alec, as the group is known, drafts model state legislation that members may customize for introduction as proposed laws to cut taxes, combat illegal immigration, loosen environmental regulations, weaken labor unions and oppose gun laws.” [New York Times, 8/23/19] Iowa Republicans Passed The Bill Restricting Asbestos-Related Liability Lawsuits Over Democratic Objections That The Measure Would Hurt Sick And Dying Iowans. “Legislation aimed at restricting asbestos-related liability lawsuits was approved Wednesday by the Republican-controlled Iowa Senate, despite heated complaints by Democrats that the measure will hurt sick and dying Iowans. […] The bill passed 27-22 with most Republicans in favor and all Democrats opposed.” [Des Moines Register, 3/8/17]
The Bill Imposed A 90 Day Window After The Filing Of An Asbestos Claim In Which Plaintiffs Had To Provide Certain Information Or Their Case Could Be Dismissed For Noncompliance. “Legislation aimed at restricting asbestos-related liability lawsuits was approved by majority Republicans, despite heated complaints by Democrats that the measure will hurt sick and dying Iowans. The measure requires plaintiffs to meet deadlines within 90 days of filing an asbestos claim for disclosing certain information. The case may be dismissed for noncompliance. Senate File 376 signed.” [Des Moines Register, 3/31/17]
● The Bill Included Provisions About Identifying Additional Or Alternative Asbestos Bankruptcy Trusts That Were Established To Pay Claims Arising From Asbestos Exposure. “The bill, which floor manager Rep. Andy McKean, R-Anamosa, said is like laws in eight states and includes components of laws in 26 states, would require plaintiffs to meet a 90-day deadline for disclosing certain information. It also includes provisions about identifying additional or alternative asbestos bankruptcy trusts that were established to pay claims arising from asbestos exposure.” [Des Moines Register, 3/13/17]
2020: Iowa Republicans Passed A Bill Installing More Roadblocks To Asbestos-Related Litigation, Requiring Sickened Iowans To List Sites They Worked At, Each Asbestos- Containing Product They Were Exposed To And The Frequency Of Exposure
2020: Iowa Republicans Passed A Bill To Require Iowans Who Become Sick From Asbestos Exposure To Provide More Detailed Information To File A Lawsuit. “Iowans who become sick from asbestos exposure would have to provide more detailed information to file a lawsuit under a bill that was sent to the governor for her signature. The bill passed the Iowa House Tuesday on a mostly party-line vote of 54-46, with all Republicans and one Democrat voting for it. […] The Senate passed the same bill two weeks ago, so it goes to Republican Gov. Kim Reynolds’ desk for her signature or veto.” [Iowa Public Radio, 3/11/20]
The Bill Added Requirements For Plaintiffs To List Sites They Worked At, Each Asbestos-Containing Product They Were Exposed To And The Frequency Of Exposure To The Product. “The bill adds requirements for plaintiffs to list sites they worked at, each asbestos-containing product they were exposed to, and the frequency of exposure to the product. Lohse said this will ensure attorneys do more research before filing these lawsuits to avoid delays as the case plays out.” [Iowa Public Radio, 3/11/20]
Democratic Rep. Karin Derry On Her Father’s Asbestos Exposure-Caused Death: He Did Not Know When Or Where The Exposure Happened, Nor Would Many Other Iowans Because Illnesses Could Take Decades To Develop. “Rep. Karin Derry, D-Johnston, said the current law already requires detailed information from plaintiffs, including location, manner, and dates of each exposure, and a medical report. Derry said her father died of lung cancer caused by asbestos exposure. She said he didn’t know when or where the exposure happened, and many other Iowans wouldn’t know that either because it can take decades for illness to develop. ‘It was, and still is, a tragedy,’ Derry said. ‘I cannot support a law that puts up further roadblocks to Iowans seeking justice after they’ve been exposed to asbestos.’” [Iowa Public Radio, 3/11/20] ● TIME: “The Full Toll From The 9/11 Attacks Has Yet To Be Calculated” Because First Responders Were Exposed To Substances Like Asbestos And “It Can Take Years, Or Even Decades, For Exposure To Some Of These Substances To Result In Conditions Including Cancer And Respiratory Illnesses.” “Among other substances, first responders and volunteers in the World Trade Center area were exposed to asbestos, lead, dioxins and benzene following the attacks. It can take years, or even decades, for exposure to some of these substances to result in conditions including cancer and respiratory illnesses—meaning the full toll from the 9/11 attacks has yet to be calculated. As of September 2018, 10,000 people had been diagnosed with cancers related to the attacks and 2,000 had died from related illnesses, approaching the number of fatalities that resulted from the day itself, according to Mount Sinai researchers.” [TIME, 1/14/20]
● New York Times: “It Takes 30 To 50 Years After Exposure To Develop Asbestosis, Mesothelioma Or A Related Lung Cancer.” “Deaths from asbestos-related diseases will surge in Asia over the next 20 years, a recent study has warned. Asia now accounts for 64 percent of the world’s asbestos use, according to the study in Respirology, the journal of the Asian Pacific Society of Respirology, but for only about 13 percent of the asbestos-related deaths in World Health Organization mortality data. It takes 30 to 50 years after exposure to develop asbestosis, mesothelioma or a related lung cancer.” [Des Moines Register, 3/8/17]
Thousands Of Iowans Were Known To Have Died From Asbestos-Related Illnesses Over The Past Two Decades. “More than 2,000 Iowans have died from asbestos-related illnesses since 1999.” [Des Moines Register, 3/8/17]
Shipley Voted For The Bill. [Senate File 2337 – 2020 Session, 3/10/20]
Iowa Republicans Captured The Statehouse With Heavy Koch Support And Advanced Their Financial Interests At The Expense Of Sick And Dying Iowans
Rep. Brad Zaun, Floor Manager For The 2017 Bill: “This Is Not A Koch Brothers Bill.” “But Sen. Brad Zaun, R-Urbandale, the bill's floor manager, said he's had no contact with the Virginia-based group, adding his goal is to avoid double-dipping by people who have already received an average of $600,000 in liability claims. ‘This is not a Koch brothers bill,’ said Zaun, referring to Charles and David Koch, wealthy businessmen who have funded a number of conservative organizations.” [Des Moines Register, 3/8/17]
The Gazette: “The Data Shows The Imprint Of The Koch Brothers And Their Groups Are All Over The 2017 Legislative Session, Starting With The 2016 Election That Produced All-Republican Control At The Capitol For The First Time In Two Decades.” “But the data shows the imprint of the Koch brothers and their groups are all over the 2017 legislative session, starting with the 2016 election that produced all- Republican control at the Capitol for the first time in two decades. Campaign support Koch Industries’ political action committee donated $46,000 to Iowa Statehouse candidates in 2015 and 2016, according to state campaign finance records. All but $500 of that money went to Republican candidates. The largest donations went to Republican leaders: $7,500 to state Sen. Bill Dix, who after the election became Senate majority leader, and $5,000 to House Speaker Linda Upmeyer. And donations ranging from $1,000 to $2,500 went to Republican chairmen of key committees and candidates in competitive districts that were crucial in flipping control of the Senate from the Democrats.” [The Gazette, 5/6/17]
Iowa Statehouse Candidates Benefited From Tens Of Thousands Of Dollars In Contributions From Koch Industries With On-The-Ground Assistance From Their Political Arm. “But the data shows the imprint of the Koch brothers and their groups are all over the 2017 legislative session, starting with the 2016 election that produced all-Republican control at the Capitol for the first time in two decades. Campaign support Koch Industries’ political action committee donated $46,000 to Iowa Statehouse candidates in 2015 and 2016, according to state campaign finance records. […] And donations ranging from $1,000 to $2,500 went to Republican chairmen of key committees and candidates in competitive districts that were crucial in flipping control of the Senate from the Democrats. Americans for Prosperity, a political advocacy organization funded by the Koch brothers, also was heavily involved in the campaign leading to the election. While the group does not divulge its spending, it says that during the 2016 campaign in Iowa, it made 718,408 phone calls, knocked on 52,903 doors and sent 318,048 mailers.” [The Gazette, 5/6/17]
Koch Industries Had A “Titanic Liability” Because Hundreds Of Thousands Reported Lung Disease And Cancer Because Of Their Products
On Capitol Hill And In Regulatory Proceedings, Koch Industries Worked To Dilute Or Halt Tighter Regulation Of Toxic Cancer-Linked Byproducts That Could Affect Its Bottom Line, Including Asbestos. “In 2005, as part of the same corporate diversification and expansion strategy, Koch Industries bought the giant wood and paper products firm, Georgia-Pacific, adding Brawny paper towels, Angel Soft toilet paper, Dixie cups and dozens of factories and plants to its holdings. Koch has since worked, on Capitol Hill and in various regulatory proceedings, to dilute or halt tighter federal regulation of several toxic byproducts that could affect its bottom line, including dioxin, asbestos and formaldehyde, all of which have been linked to cancer.” [Center for Public Integrity, 5/19/14]
Center For Public Integrity: Koch Industries “Inherited A Titanic Liability Regarding Asbestos” When It Purchased Georgia-Pacific In 2005. “In 2005, as part of the same corporate diversification and expansion strategy, Koch Industries bought the giant wood and paper products firm, Georgia-Pacific, adding Brawny paper towels, Angel Soft toilet paper, Dixie cups and dozens of factories and plants to its holdings. […] When Koch Industries purchased Georgia-Pacific, it inherited a titanic liability regarding asbestos.” [Center for Public Integrity, 5/19/14]
Over 340,000 People Reported Suffering Lung And Other Diseases, Including The Deadly Cancer Mesothelioma, Because Georgia-Pacific Used Asbestos To Make Drywall Products. “Georgia-Pacific had used asbestos to make gypsum-based drywall products, and starting in the 1980s the firm became a target for more than 340,000 claims by plaintiffs who said they suffered lung and other diseases, including mesothelioma, a deadly cancer. By 2005, the company was spending $200 million a year and had to build a $1.5 billion reserve fund for asbestos liabilities and defense costs.” [Center for Public Integrity, 5/19/14]
By 2005, Georgia-Pacific Was Spending $200 Million A Year And Had To Build A $1.5 Billion Reserve Fund For Asbestos Liabilities And Defense Costs. “Georgia-Pacific had used asbestos to make gypsum- based drywall products, and starting in the 1980s the firm became a target for more than 340,000 claims by plaintiffs who said they suffered lung and other diseases, including mesothelioma, a deadly cancer. By 2005, the company was spending $200 million a year and had to build a $1.5 billion reserve fund for asbestos liabilities and defense costs.” [Center for Public Integrity, 5/19/14]
2017: Bestwall LLC, An Affiliate Of Georgia-Pacific LLC, Filed For U.S. Chapter 11 Bankruptcy, Citing Soaring Costs Of Defending Against Claims Its Products Caused Asbestos-Related Diseases. “An affiliate of Georgia-Pacific LLC, which makes Brawny paper towels, has filed for U.S. Chapter 11 bankruptcy amid soaring costs of defending against claims its products caused asbestos-related diseases, according to a company statement on Thursday. The affiliate, Bestwall LLC, joins scores of U.S. manufacturers that have filed for bankruptcy due to asbestos litigation, and comes as the U.S. Congress mulls a bill that plaintiffs’ lawyers say would discourage asbestos claims.” [Reuters, 11/2/17]
As COVID-19 Threatened To Cause A Half Trillion Dollar Budget Shortfall For State & Local Governments And Sink The Economy Without Federal Assistance, Shipley Joined ALEC To Argue That The Federal Government Should Not Help Iowa And The Other States
As A Result Of The Coronavirus, State And Local Government Budget Shortfalls Were Expected To Total At Least $500 Billion Through Fiscal Year 2022, Equal To Nearly 20% Of Pre-Crisis Annual Revenues
After The Coronavirus Pandemic Struck, Every State Faced Plummeting Tax Revenue And Quickly Rising Public Health Expenses, With Balanced-Budget Laws In Place In 49 States And The New Fiscal Year Starting In Just Weeks For Most. “In February, Ohio was running a $200 million budget surplus. Then the coronavirus pandemic struck, wiping out the surplus — and then some. Tax revenue plummeted and public health expenses skyrocketed. […] Every state is grappling with a version of the same problem, and all but one — Vermont — have balanced-budget laws in place. And for most, the new fiscal year starts on July 1, leaving them just a few weeks to come up with a plan and desperate for help.” [New York Times, 5/14/20]
● Iowa’s Fiscal Years Began July 1, Setting The State Up To Start Feeling The Effects Before The New Fiscal Year Began. “Goodman said states like Iowa whose fiscal years begin July 1 will start feeling the effects before the new fiscal year begins. Rising unemployment will affect the amount the state receives from income tax withholding, he said, and less economic activity will mean lower sales tax numbers.” [Des Moines Register, 4/11/20]
● States Like Iowa That Pushed Back Their Income Tax Filing Deadline Would See Less Money Coming In Before The End Of Their Fiscal Years. “States like Iowa that have pushed back their income tax filing deadline to July 31 will see less money coming in before the end of their fiscal years, he said.” [Des Moines Register, 4/11/20]
Pew Charitable Trusts Senior Officer Josh Goodman: State Officials Expected Tax Collections To Fall Precipitously In The Face Of “The Greatest Test To Their Budget Preparedness Since At Least The 2007- 2009 Recession — And Perhaps In Modern History.” “Across the country, states are preparing for big financial hits to their income and sales tax revenue. ‘State officials expect tax collections to soon begin falling precipitously,’ Josh Goodman, a senior officer at the Pew Charitable Trusts, said Wednesday. ‘Today, states face the greatest test to their budget preparedness since at least the 2007-2009 recession — and perhaps in modern history.’” [Des Moines Register, 4/11/20] May 2020: Democrats Negotiated With The White House, Attempting To Strike A Bipartisan Deal To Provide Tens Of Billions Of Dollars In Relief To States. “White House officials have privately signaled that they are willing to provide tens of billions of dollars in relief to states as part of a bipartisan deal with Democrats in the coming weeks, despite President Trump’s reluctance and strong opposition from conservative groups, according to seven people familiar with the internal deliberations who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss the matter.” [Washington Post, 5/14/20]
The Economic Policy Institute Warned That State And Local Governments Could Experience Revenue Shortfalls Of Nearly $1 Trillion By 2021. “The Economic Policy Institute, a left-leaning think tank, said earlier this week that state and local governments could experience revenue shortfalls of nearly $1 trillion by 2021. Nearly 1,000 firefighters have already been furloughed or laid off nationwide, according to the International Association of Fire Chiefs, with 30,000 more possible this year or next.” [Washington Post, 5/14/20]
The National Governors Association Called For $500 Billion In Aid To Address Budget Shortfalls. “States have asked for an enormous level of fiscal support, with the National Governors Association reiterating its call Wednesday for $500 billion in aid to address budget shortfalls, among other things.” [Washington Post, 5/14/20]
Moody's Analytics Estimated State And Local Government Budget Shortfalls Would Total At Least $500 Billion Through Fiscal Year 2022, Equal To Nearly One-Fifth Of Pre-Crisis Annual Revenues Without Including The Direct Health Care Costs States Were Bearing. “But no state will escape the financial black hole created by the crisis. Nationwide, we estimate that state and local governments will have Covid-19 budget shortfalls totaling at least $500 billion through fiscal year 2022. This is stunning — equal to nearly one-fifth of pre-crisis annual revenues — and does not include the direct health care costs states are bearing to battle the virus. So far, the federal government has picked up these health care costs. It will need to continue to do so.” [Mark Zandi – CNN, 5/19/20]
States Like Iowa Faced Hundreds Of Thousands Suffering Unemployment With Drastically Declining State Revenues And Risked More Job Loss Without Federal Assistance
Moody's Analytics Chief Economist Argued That Without The Federal Government Helping State And Local Governments, “The Entire Economy Will Sink”
Iowa's Unemployment Numbers Were Skyrocketing And Small Businesses Needed Assistance, While The State Depended On Income And Sales Taxes For About 90% Of State Revenues. “With COVID-19 causing the government to close down public-facing businesses and ban social gatherings, Iowa's unemployment numbers are skyrocketing and small businesses are asking for $148 million to mitigate the damage. Those factors mean that income and sales taxes — which together make up about 90% of state revenues — are likely to take a big hit. The longer the virus continues to spread and prevent the economy from reopening, the bigger the losses.” [Des Moines Register, 4/11/20]
● May 2020: Iowa Workforce Development Reported A Total Of Nearly 200,000 Continuing Weekly Unemployment Claims. “Iowa Workforce Development reported a total of 16,735 initial unemployment claims filed between May 3 and May 9. That number is down nearly 8,000 from a week ago. There were 15,411 claims by people who work and live in Iowa, and 1,324 claims by those who work in Iowa but live in another state. IWD reported 191,257 total continuing weekly unemployment claims.” [KCRG, 5/14/20]
Moody's Analytics Chief Economist Mark Zandi: Without The Federal Government Helping State And Local Governments, “The Entire Economy Will Sink.” “If the feds do the right thing and help out state and local governments, it will go a long way toward helping the broader economy. If the feds don't do the right thing, the entire economy will sink.” [Mark Zandi – CNN, 5/19/20]
● Zandi: “For Each Dollar Spent By State And Local Governments, The Economy Sees An Estimated Benefit Of $1.34.” “We know that helping state and local governments is one of the most efficacious ways to support the economy in a downturn. For each dollar spent by state and local governments, the economy sees an estimated benefit of $1.34. In other words, the economy sees an immediate 34% return on the dollar, and this bang for the buck is among the highest of any policy step lawmakers can take.” [Mark Zandi – CNN, 5/19/20]
Zandi: Because Of Balanced Budget Laws, If The States Did Not Get Federal Assistance, They Would Have No Choice But To Quickly Cut Jobs And Programs. “States are in a bind because they have balanced budget laws. Unlike the federal government, they are not able to run budget deficits for very long. Usually, this is a feature and not a bug. It ensures that states remain fiscally disciplined. But in tough times, like now, if the states don't get help from the feds, they have no choice but to quickly cut jobs and programs.” [Mark Zandi – CNN, 5/19/20]
Shipley Joined With ALEC And The Billionaire-Led Koch Network To Oppose Federal Aid, Lecturing That “The American People Are Being Forced To Make Difficult But Fiscally Responsible Decisions During The Pandemic And States Need To Do The Same”
The American Legislative Exchange Council Recruited Elected Officials To Sign A Letter Claiming “The Federal Government ‘Bailing Out’ The States Would Be Harmful To Taxpayers, Federalism, And Ultimately The States Themselves.” “To: The Federal Government and Leaders in Washington DC[,] From: American Legislative Exchange Council and Partners[,] 2900 Crystal Drive, 6th Floor, Arlington, VA 22202[.] The undersigned organizations, policy leaders and elected officials believe the idea of the federal government ‘bailing out’ the states would be harmful to taxpayers, federalism, and ultimately the states themselves. Share your voice, sign the ALEC letter.” [American Legislative Exchange Council, 5/12/20]
ALEC Argued That Federal Lawmakers Had Already Granted Enough Money To Deal With The Crisis And “A Federal Bailout Of State Budgets Would Be Counterproductive.” “While economic conditions remain dire due to government-mandated business closures during the pandemic, federal lawmakers have already granted a general $150 billion COVID-19 relief fund, a $30 billion education costs fund, a $45 billion disaster relief fund and more for state and local governments. We feel a federal bailout of state budgets would be counterproductive – rewarding states that have made poor financial decisions at the expense of those that have been fiscally responsible.” [American Legislative Exchange Council, 5/12/20]
ALEC: A federal Bailout In Response To The Global Health Emergency Would Send The Wrong Message To States, Only Encouraging More Debt And Spending. “A federal bailout would only encourage this cycle of debt and spending to continue. It would also send the wrong message to states that have made difficult spending choices and practiced fiscal discipline.” [American Legislative Exchange Council, 5/12/20]
ALEC: “The American People Are Being Forced To Make Difficult But Fiscally Responsible Decisions During The Pandemic And States Need To Do The Same.” “Instead, states should work to craft a priority-based budget. The American people are being forced to make difficult but fiscally responsible decisions during the pandemic, and states need to do the same.” [American Legislative Exchange Council, 5/12/20]
Americans For Prosperity Signed Onto The Letter With Representatives From 34 State Affiliates, Including The Director Of Its Iowa Chapter. “I AGREE, THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT SHOULD NOT BAIL OUT THE STATES: […] Americans For Prosperity State Directors: Tim Phillips- President of Americans For Prosperity[,] Ryan Mckee-Alaska[,] Stephen Shadegg-Arizona[,] Ryan Norris-Arkansas[,] Jesse Mallory- Colorado[,] Skylar Zander-Florida[,] Stephen Allison-Georgia[,] Andrew Nelms-Illinois[,] Michael Chartier- Indiana[,] Drew Klein-Iowa[,] Elizabeth Patton-Kansas[,] Mike Conway-Kentucky[,] Annie Patnaude- Michigan[,] Jason Flohrs-Minnesota[,] Steven Utroska-Mississippi[,] Jeremy Cady-Missouri[,] David Herbst-Montana[,] Jessica Shelburn-Nebraska[,] Juan Martinez-Nevada[,] Greg Moore-New Hampshire[,] Tony Howley-New Jersey[,] Burly Cain-New Mexico[,] Chris McCoy-North Carolina[,] Michael Fedorchak- North Dakota[,] Micah Derry-Ohio[,] John Tidwell-Oklahoma[,] Ashley Klingensmith-Pennsylvania[,] Andrew Yates-South Carolina[,] Don Haggar-South Dakota[,] Jerome Greener-Texas[,] Tori Venable- Tennessee[,] Heather Williamson-Utah[,] JC Hernandez-Virginia[,] Jason Huffman-West Virginia[,] Eric Bott-Wisconsin[.]” [American Legislative Exchange Council, 5/12/20]
Shipley Was One Of Nine Iowa Legislators To Sign The ALEC Letter.” “I AGREE, THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT SHOULD NOT BAIL OUT THE STATES: Legislators: […] Representative Philip Thompson- IA[,] Senate President Charles Schneider-IA[,] Representative Joe Mitchell-IA[,] Senator Zach Whiting- IA[,] Speaker Linda Upmeyer-IA[,] Speaker Pro Tempore John Wills-IA[,] Representative Skyler Wheeler- IA[,] Representative Jeff Shipley-IA[,] Senator Zach Nunn-IA[.]” [American Legislative Exchange Council, 5/12/20]
Shipley Sponsored Several Anti-LGBTQ Bills
Shipley Sponsored A Bill To Restrict Educators From Discussing Sexual Orientation And Gender Identity
House File 2201 Would Require School Districts To Annually Notify Parents About Any Instruction Regarding Sexual Orientation And Gender Identity. “Parents in Iowa may be allowed to excuse their kids from lessons involving LGBTQ issues, if a recently proposed bill progresses. The bill, House File 2201, was introduced last month and has been advancing in the Iowa legislature. It's currently sitting in a House subcommittee. Sponsored by 13 House Republicans, it would require school districts to annually notify parents about any instruction regarding sexual orientation and gender identity. That would give them the chance to pull their children from participating and allowing them to inspect the materials used ahead of time.” [CNN, 2/14/20]
One Iowa Action: The Anti-LGBTQ Bill Was "Uniquely Dangerous" Given Its Support From More Than Half A Dozen Sponsors. “It's currently sitting in a House subcommittee. Sponsored by 13 House Republicans, it would require school districts to annually notify parents about any instruction regarding sexual orientation and gender identity. […] Other groups, like One Iowa Action, have bluntly called the bill -- and others like it -- anti-LGBTQ. ‘HF2201 would restrict educators from discussing sexual orientation and gender identity,’ the group wrote on January 31. They called the bill ‘uniquely dangerous’ given its level of support in the House.” [CNN, 2/14/20]
Shipley Sponsored A Bill To Allow Discrimination Against Transgender Athletes.
Shipley Sponsored A Bill To Allow Discrimination Against Transgender Athletes. “It's not the only proposed legislation that's drawing the ire of advocate groups. HF 2202, which shares 12 co-sponsors with HF 2201, including Shipley, was also introduced in January, and would require high school students to participate in sports based on their biological sex. The bill, One Iowa Action said, would allow discrimination against transgender athletes in Iowa schools.” [CNN, 2/14/20]
Shipley Sponsored A Bill To Eliminate Civil Right Protections Covering Gender Identity Pending The Results Of A Study
Shipley Sponsored A Bill To Study Of The Effects Of Adding Gender Identity Protections To The Iowa Civil Rights Law In 2007, To Open The Door To Eliminating Those Protections If The Study Determined The Protections Contributed To Suicides. “There's a bill framed as an effort to protect transgender people from committing suicide, for which they are at higher risk. House File 2274, sponsored by Rep. Jeff Shipley, a Birmingham Republican, would undertake a study of the effects of adding gender identity protections to the Iowa civil rights law in 2007, to see if that contributed to suicides. If the study determined it had, the protections could be eliminated.” [Rekha Basu – Des Moines Register, 2/11/20]; WHO TV, 2/9/20]
Shipley Cited The Bible To Attack Pride Month
Shipley Asked What The Book Of Proverbs Said About Pride In Response To A June 2019 Tweet That Asked Why Pride Was Important. “What does the book of Proverbs say about pride?” in response to a tweet from Marianne Williamson that read “Why is pride important? Because shame is an act of emotional violence. We should more than tolerate our differences; we should celebrate our differences, and see the richness of our diversity as the source of our collective strength.” [Rep. Jeff Shipley – Twitter, 6/8/19]
A Section In Proverbs Declared “Pride Goeth Before Destruction, And An Haughty Spirit Before A Fall.” “Proverbs 16:18 King James Version (KJV)[:] Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.” [Proverbs 16:18 – Bible Gateway, accessed 2020]
President Clinton Declared June “Gay & Lesbian Pride Month” And It Had The Month Of LGBTQ Pride Marches And Celebrations In Commemoration Of The Stonewall Inn Riots Since 1970. “The month of June has officially signified LGBTQ pride in the US since President Bill Clinton first declared it ‘Gay & Lesbian Pride Month’ in 1999 and 2000. But June has been the month of LGBTQ pride marches and celebrations in commemoration of the Stonewall Inn riots since 1970, the year after the riots commenced.” [Insider, accessed 2020] Shipley Supported An Unprecedented Legislative Coup To Strip The Attorney General Of Authority To Oppose Trump Policies Like Family Separation
Shipley Voted For A Bill To Strip The Democratic Attorney General Of His Power To Join Lawsuits Against Policies Coming Out Of The Trump Administration, A Limit Which Existed In No Other State
Iowa Republicans Proposed New Restrictions On The State's Democratic Attorney General To Prevent Him From Joining Lawsuits Against Policies Coming Out Of The Trump Administration. “Iowa Republicans have proposed new restrictions on the state's Democratic attorney general to prevent him from joining lawsuits that target President Donald Trump's administration. Tom Miller, as the state's chief legal officer, joined six lawsuits in 2018 that were initiated in other states seeking to block many of Trump's policies, including separating families on the southern U.S. border and requiring citizenship information in the 2020 census.” [Des Moines Register, 4/18/19]
The Proposal Would Require Miller's Office To Get Permission To Join Out-Of-State Lawsuits, Only Allowing Non-Iowa Suits If Requested By The Governor, The General Assembly Or The Executive Council, Which Also Included The Governor. “Worthan filed his proposal this week, tacking it onto a budget bill moving through the Iowa House of Representatives, that would require Miller's office to get permission to join out-of-state lawsuits. If the proposal becomes law, the attorney general could only prosecute non-Iowa suits if requested by the governor, the General Assembly or the Executive Council, which also includes the governor.” [Des Moines Register, 4/18/19]
Iowa Would Have Been The Only State With Such A Provision. “Had Reynolds let the measure become law, Iowa Code would have required the attorney general to seek permission from the governor, Legislature or executive council — which includes the governor — to join multi-state lawsuits. Iowa would have been the only state with such a provision.” [Des Moines Register, 5/22/19]
● Former Maine Attorney General Jim Tierney "There Is No Question That Iowa Would Be The Only State That Has Done This To Itself, And That The Only Losers Are The People Of Iowa.” “‘There is no question that Iowa would be the only state that has done this to itself, and that the only losers are the people of Iowa,’ said Jim Tierney, a Harvard Law School lecturer who served as Maine attorney general from 1980 to 1990.” [Associated Press, 5/15/19]
Attorney General Tom Miller: The Proposal “Goes To The Heart Of The Office Of The Attorney General.” “‘What’s being proposed sort of goes to the heart of the office of the attorney general,’ Miller told the Des Moines Register. ‘Deciding when to file a lawsuit and whether there’s a legal basis for it, is within our authority, expertise … what the public expects of us.’” [Des Moines Register, 4/18/19]
2018: Attorney General Tom Miller Joined Six Lawsuits To Block Trump's Policies Like Separating Families On The Southern U.S. Border And Requiring Citizenship Information In The 2020 Census. “Iowa Republicans have proposed new restrictions on the state's Democratic attorney general to prevent him from joining lawsuits that target President Donald Trump's administration. Tom Miller, as the state's chief legal officer, joined six lawsuits in 2018 that were initiated in other states seeking to block many of Trump's policies, including separating families on the southern U.S. border and requiring citizenship information in the 2020 census.” [Des Moines Register, 4/18/19] Miller’s Office Joined About 26 Amicus Briefs And 50 Letters To Federal Agencies Challenging The Trump Administration, At An Estimated Cost Of $10,000 Or Less. “Miller’s office also has joined other states in signing on to about 26 amicus briefs and 50 letters to federal agencies challenging the Trump administration's actions, according to the attorney general’s office. The office estimates its cost of participating falls between $7,500 and $10,000.” [Des Moines Register, 4/18/19]
Miller: “As Written, The Language Would Affect Far More Than Lawsuits Against The Federal Government And Would Limit Our Ability To Act On Such Issues As Consumer Protection, Antitrust Violations And Medicaid Fraud.” “‘We believe Iowa would be the only state in the nation to have these restrictions on the power and duties of the Attorney General,’ Miller said in a later statement Thursday afternoon. ‘As written, the language would affect far more than lawsuits against the federal government and would limit our ability to act on such issues as consumer protection, antitrust violations and Medicaid fraud.’” [Des Moines Register, 4/18/19]
Shipley Voted For The Bill. [Senate File 615 – 2019 Session, 4/23/19]
Shipley Voted To Give The Republican Governor Control Over The Judicial Nomination Process After Conservative Outrage At Rulings Upholding Marriage Equality & Abortion Rights
Conservatives Wanted To Change The Process For Selecting Iowa Judges After Court Decisions Legalized Same-Sex Marriage In The State And Struck Down New Abortion Restrictions
A 2018 Court Ruling Against Abortion Restrictions Inspired A 2019 Law That Would Give The Republican Governor Immediate Control Over The Judicial Nominating Commission And Force Out The Chief Justice Who Had Long Been A Swing Vote
The 2019 Law Gave The Republican Governor A Majority Of Appointments To The Commission That Nominated Finalists For Openings On The Iowa Supreme Court And Court Of Appeals And Shortened The Term Of The Chief Justice
Conservatives Had Wanted To Change The Process For Selecting Iowa Judges For Years After Court Decisions Legalized Same-Sex Marriage In The State And Struck Down New Abortion Restrictions. “The idea to change the process for selecting Iowa judges has been around for years, as conservatives criticized court decisions that legalized same-sex marriage in the state and struck down new abortion restrictions. In 2010, one year after the marriage ruling, they led a successful campaign to oust three justices from the state Supreme Court.” [Des Moines Register, 2/4/19]
Sitting Chief Justice Mark Cady Was A Republican Appointee Who Had Long Been A Swing Vote On The Court And Who Wrote Key Decisions That Rankled Social Conservatives. “Mark Cady, the soft- spoken chief justice of the Iowa Supreme Court who wrote key decisions on gay marriage and abortion access that rankled social conservatives, has died at the age of 66. […] Cady had been a key swing vote on the court in recent years, as Republicans took control of the Legislature and governor’s office and passed new laws aimed at expanding gun rights, restricting abortion and barring gay marriage. […] Although Cady was one of five Republican appointees to the court, he often sided with the two justices appointed by Democratic governors.” [Associated Press, 11/16/19]
● Cady Wrote The 2009 Unanimous Opinion That Made Iowa The Nation’s Third State To Permit Same-Sex Marriage, Years Before The 2015 U.S. Supreme Court Decision That Struck Down Gay Marriage Bans Throughout The Country. “Cady wrote the 2009 unanimous opinion that made Iowa the nation’s third state to permit same-sex marriage. The ruling came years before the 2015 U.S. Supreme Court decision that struck down gay marriage bans throughout the country.” [Associated Press, 11/16/19]
o Cady’s Opinion Led To A Backlash From Conservatives, Who Voted Out Three Of The Justices In 2010, Though Cady Was Not Up For A Retention Vote That Year. “‘We are firmly convinced the exclusion of gay and lesbian people from the institution of civil marriage does not substantially further any important governmental objective,’ Cady wrote for the court. The ruling led to a backlash from conservatives, who voted out three of the justices in 2010, though Cady wasn’t up for a retention vote that year.” [Associated Press, 11/16/19]
In 2018, Cady Led A 5-2 Majority Of Justices Who Concluded That A Law Requiring Women To Wait 72 Hours Before A Doctor Could Perform An Abortion Was Unconstitutional. “Last year, Cady led a 5-2 majority of justices who concluded that a law requiring women to wait 72 hours before a doctor could perform an abortion was unconstitutional because ‘autonomy and dominion over one’s body go to the very heart of what it means to be free.’” [Associated Press, 11/16/19]
2019: The Iowa Legislature Passed A Bill Changing The State’s Decades-Old Judicial Nominating System, Allowing The Governor To Make Nine Appointments To The State Nominating Commission That Helped Choose Iowa Supreme Court Justices And Court Of Appeals Judges. “Gov. Kim Reynolds now has more power over a panel that helps select judges and justices to Iowa's top courts after she signed legislation Wednesday changing Iowa's decades-old judicial nominating system. The new law allows the governor to make nine appointments to the state nominating commission that helps choose Iowa Supreme Court justices and Court of Appeals judges, giving Reynolds immediate control over the 17-member panel.” [Des Moines Register, 5/8/19]
The 2018 Ruling Against Abortion Restrictions Inspired The 2019 Law That Gave The Governor More Control Over Nominees To Put On The Courts. “The ruling angered conservatives and led to passage of a law this year that gave the governor more control over nominees to put on the courts.” [Associated Press, 11/16/19]
The Law Changed The Tenure Of The Supreme Court’s Chief Justice, Shortening It From The Entirety Of The Justice's Eight-Year Term On The Court To Require An Election Every Two Years. “The language also requires the Iowa Supreme Court to elect its chief justice every two years, with the possibility of re- election. Previously, the chief justice, whom the justices elect from their own members, served for the entirety of the justice's eight-year term on the court.” [Des Moines Register, 5/8/19]
The Law Cut The Chief Justice’s Pay And Reduced Cady’s Eight-Year Term By Three Years, Forcing Him To Step Down As Chief In 2021. “The law also reduced Cady’s eight-year term as chief justice by three years, forcing him to step down as chief in 2021, which would have cut his pay by about $8,000 a year.” [Associated Press, 11/16/19] The Law Immediately Gave Iowa’s Republican Governor Control Over The 17-Member Panel That Helped Choose Iowa Supreme Court Justices And Court Of Appeals Judges. “The new law allows the governor to make nine appointments to the state nominating commission that helps choose Iowa Supreme Court justices and Court of Appeals judges, giving Reynolds immediate control over the 17- member panel. […] Reynolds, a Republican, is allowed to immediately name her ninth appointment to the commission, giving her majority control.” [Des Moines Register, 5/8/19]
● Previously, The 17-Member Nominating Commission Interviewed Applicant And Sent Three Names To The Governor, Who Then Appointed The Justice Or Judge. “A 17-member nominating commission interviews applicant and sends three names to the governor, and she appoints the justice or judge.” [Iowa Public Radio, 4/27/19]
● The Law Removed The Senior Justice From The Commission And Replaced That Seat With A Ninth Appointment By The Governor, Who Would Make A Majority Of Appointments With Nine, Subject To Senate Confirmation. “This plan removes the senior justice from the commission and replaces that seat with a ninth appointment by the governor. The new makeup of the commission will be nine appointments by the governor, subject to Senate confirmation, and eight attorneys elected by other attorneys.” [Iowa Public Radio, 4/27/19]
● A Previous Version Of The Bill Would Not Have Required Senate Confirmation For The Governor’s Appointees And Have Had The Remaining Eight Appointments Made By Statehouse Leaders. “The earlier version of this proposal, passed by the Senate, was much more expansive. It would’ve removed the attorney elections and replaced them with statehouse leaders of both parties selecting commission members. It also would’ve removed the Senate confirmation requirement from the governor’s appointees.” [Iowa Public Radio, 4/27/19]
The Koch-Backed Americans For Prosperity Registered To Lobby In Favor Of The Bill And Ran Online Facebook Ads In Support. “Multiple organizations, including the Iowa State Bar Association and the Iowa Association of Magistrate Judges, are registered against the bill. The conservative Koch Network- supported Americans for Prosperity is among a handful of groups registered in favor of the bill. It recently ran online Facebook ads that read in part: ‘Today, Iowa's judicial branch is controlled by an oligarchy of attorneys. Don’t you deserve a voice?’” [Des Moines Register, 2/4/19]
Gov. Reynolds Claimed The Bill Gave “All Iowans A Greater Voice In The Process.” “‘I am proud to sign this compromise legislation reforming our process for selecting judges to give all Iowans a greater voice in the process,’ Reynolds said in a statement.” [Des Moines Register, 5/8/19]
Iowans Preferred To Keep The Traditional Judicial Selection System By A 21-Point Margin. “A February Des Moines Register/Mediacom Iowa Poll found Iowans preferred to keep the state’s current judicial selection system by a 21-point margin, with 54 percent favoring the current system, 33 percent favoring change, and 13 percent not sure.” [Des Moines Register, 5/8/19]
Shipley Voted For The Bill. [Senate File 638 – 2019 Session, 4/27/19]
The Bill Was Signed In A Private Ceremony With Republican Lawmakers And Lobbyists For Conservative Organizations, Including The Family Leader, A Faith-Based Group That Led An Effort To Oust Three Iowa Supreme Court Justices Over The 2009 Decision Legalizing Same-Sex Marriage. “Reynolds signed the bill in a private ceremony, accompanied by Republican lawmakers and lobbyists for conservative organizations, including The Family Leader, a faith-based group that led an effort to oust three Iowa Supreme Court justices over a 2009 decision legalizing same-sex marriage.” [Des Moines Register, 5/8/19]