(Des Moines) Governor Kim Reynolds is pushing forward with efforts to improve government effectiveness in Iowa. Reynolds signed an executive order yesterday creating a DOGE Task Force, with DOGE standing for Department of Government Efficiency. The governor said the group will have three key goals: maximizing taxpayer investment return and further refining Iowa’s workforce and job training programs. The final goal is to leverage technology, such as artificial intelligence. The task force is expected to meet for the first time within the next 60 days.
In other legislative news:
*A bill that would’ve placed a five-year moratorium on casinos in Iowa isn’t moving forward. In a statement, State Senator Ken Rozenboom said he decided not to bring the measure forward during a committee meeting. He explained he’s not a fan of gambling and his decision not to advance the bill shouldn’t be considered in support of casino expansion. He also added this legislation didn’t have enough support from Senate Republicans to advance through the process. The Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission voted to approve the application for a casino in Cedar Rapids last week.
*Democratic lawmakers are adding another member to their caucus. After winning a special election for Iowa Senate District 35, Mike Zimmer was sworn into office yesterday. Despite the addition, Republicans still have a supermajority with 34 members against 16 Democrats. The seat opened after Kim Reynolds selected Chris Cournoyer as lieutenant governor. District 35 covers Clinton County and parts of Jackson and Scott counties.
