Senate Journal: Page 3: Monday, January 8, 1996

    Iowans expect us to use our common-sense by reducing taxes reasonably
    and carefully, and to resist the temptation to cut taxes too much now,
    only to find ourselves back into deficit  due to federal cutbacks or
    economic downturns.

         During past financial crises, repair and renovation of our public
    buildings, roads, parks & bridges has also been delayed. Now that the
    budget is in the black, we should take steps to protect our existing
    investment in infrastructure.  These are sensible one-time expenditures
    that protect our existing investments across the state and allow us to
    make the best use of the facilities we already have.

         I believe two other specific priorities deserve increased state
    support this year.  These are education and training needs, and crime
    control.

         Iowans understand the need to prepare our youth to compete in
    todays global economy, and to provide continuing education and job
    training for all our citizens.  Iowans expect us to keep education--both
    K-12 and higher education-- a key priority.

         Iowans exposure to crime--often violent crime--is another priority.
    In 1995, we authorized construction of nearly 1,000 additional prison
    spaces to keep convicted criminals off the streets.  In 96, we should
    authorize more space to house prisoners, no matter what specific plans
    we choose.

         Finally, I want to say a word about the federal budget changes
    looming on the horizon.  It appears to me that we will be faced with
    cutbacks in several areas that impact on our elderly and our children.
    I believe we need to speak up to our federal officials about the impact
    of these proposed changes on Iowans. I  believe it is our obligation to
    try to maintain needed services for our elderly and our children--even
    though it will certainly impact our state budget. Helping those who
    really need assistance is another common-sense Iowa value in my book.

         In 1996, if we in the Senate continue to focus on Iowans key
    concerns, and provide common-sense leadership with fiscal stability, we
    will have another truly successful session.  I look forward to working
    with you on the issues we face in the year ahead.

         Thank you.



                            COMMITTEE FROM THE HOUSE

         A committee from the House appeared and notified the Senate that
    the House was duly organized and ready to receive any communication the
    Senate might be ready to transmit.



                         REMARKS BY THE MINORITY LEADER

         Senator Rife addressed the Senate as follows:

Iowa General Assembly

Index: Senate Journal (76th General Assembly: Session 2)

© 1996 Cornell College and League of Women Voters of Iowa

Comments? sjourn@legis.iowa.gov.

Last update: Fri Jan 12 20:45:07 CST 1996
URL: /DOCS/GA/76GA/Session.2/SJournal/00000/00003.html
jhf