Senate Journal: Page 6: Monday, January 14, 2002
This is a tough budget year. The slowing economy and falling state revenues are
forcing tough choices upon us. Yet Democrats are optimistic we can weather this
storm. A decade ago, when the state faced similar budget problems, Democratic
legislators with a Republican governor created both the Rainy Day Fund and a state
law requiring balanced budgets.
Because of the foresight of those leaders, we can continue to focus on our priorities.
There is no need to throw the financial baby out with the bath water. For example,
rather than abandon education, we should rethink and refocus, but above all continue
to move forward.
Last year was one of the snowiest winters on record. It was also one of the most
partisan sessions ever. This year, despite today’s snow, we are experiencing a record
warm spell. I hope we will likewise experience a thaw in partisanship, an end to bills
written solely for the Governor to veto, and experience instead a new focus on real
issues that affect real Iowans.
Senate Democrats urge the Republican majority to put aside partisanship and the
issues that divide us, and work with us on the challenges that unite us: the need for
greater economic security now and a more prosperous future for all Iowans.
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.
LEAVES OF ABSENCE
Leaves of absence were granted as follows:
Senators Bartz and Johnson, for the remainder of the day, on request of Senator
Iverson.
COMMITTEE TO NOTIFY THE GOVERNOR
Senator Iverson moved that a committee of five be appointed to
notify the Governor that the Senate was organized and ready to
receive any communication that he might be ready to transmit.
The motion prevailed by a voice vote, and the Chair announced the
appointment of Senators Redwine, Chair; Boettger, Deluhery, Jensen,
and McCoy.
© 2002 Cornell College and
League of Women Voters of Iowa
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