Legislative Update – January 17th, 2025

FIRST WEEK OF LEGISLATIVE SESSION

The first week of the legislative session is largely ceremonial. This is the first year of the two-year General Assembly.

Legislators were sworn in on Monday, followed by speeches from the leaders in each chamber outlining their priorities.

Governor Reynolds gave her Condition of the State address Tuesday night, followed by the Chief Justice of the Iowa Supreme Court, Susan Christensen, giving the Condition of the Judiciary address Wednesday morning. On Thursday morning, Major General Stephen Osborn, adjutant general of the Iowa National Guard gave the Condition of the Guard address.

LEGISLATIVE ISSUES

Bills are starting to be introduced, and several related to expanding deer seasons, offering nonresidents more incentives to buy land for buck tags, and changes to the forest reserve program.
On the positive side, proposals to add language to the state constitution guaranteeing the right to hunt and fish has been introduced. Additionally, one of ISC’s priorities—eliminating the celebrity deer tag—is expected to be introduced soon.

We are only a week into a 110-day legislative session, and deer-related issues are already taking center stage. Please stay in contact with your legislators, sharing your thoughts and keeping them informed about what you’re seeing in the field. Your input is essential to shaping these decisions.

BILL TRACKER

**New information highlighted in yellow**

MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD

Several important bills are currently being introduced that will affect our rights and interests. Some are harmful, while others are beneficial. It’s crucial that your voices are heard on these issues. Email your legislators and let them know where you stand on these bills. When legislators hear directly from their constituents, it makes a real impact on their decisions.

As your lobbyist, it strengthens my efforts when lawmakers mention they’ve been in contact with their hunters regarding these bills. Please take a moment to check if your legislators are on the Natural Resources Committee listed below and make your voice heard. Your input truly matters!

House Natural Resources Committee

Senate Natural Resources Committee

PLEASE DON’T HESITATE TO CONTACT ME!

Phil Jeneary

phil@tightlinesconsultancy.com