(Des Moines) Iowa House District 23 Representative Ray Sorensen says lawmakers are zeroing in on the issues that matter most to Iowans—especially when it comes to easing the burden of property taxes.
“Property tax reform is front and center for us,” Sorensen said. “You’ve told us loud and clear it’s time to shift focus from income taxes to property taxes, and we’re listening.”
Among the proposed legislation is House Study Bill 313, a sweeping reform package that could bring $426 million in tax relief. The bill proposes major structural changes including a revenue cap, a $25,000 homestead exemption, the elimination of the rollback system, and additional support for veterans and seniors.
Other property tax reform ideas in the mix include HSB 304, which proposes a 3% limit on tax increases per parcel, and HF 600, which would impose a 2% levy cap. Sorensen emphasized that these proposals aren’t being rushed.
“We want your feedback to get it right,” he added.
In addition to tax reform, HF 884, a bill that would allow schools to bring in chaplains, is also generating buzz. Sorensen clarified that the bill is not intended to replace school counselors but to give school boards the flexibility to add chaplains as an optional, additional resource for students needing spiritual or emotional support.
“Many institutions already use chaplains—our military, hospitals, corporations, correctional facilities, and even government entities,” Sorensen said. “This bill simply gives schools the option. There are no mandates, and background checks would be required.”
He stressed that the intent is to complement the work of existing school support staff, not to replace them. “Our counselors are irreplaceable,” Sorensen said. “This is about giving local districts the tools to support their students in ways that fit their community’s needs.”
