BUDGET WILL DOMINATE SESSION

    HARLAN – Budgeting issues will monopolize this year’s Iowa legislative session, as legislators discuss how best to handle built-in expense increases with less-than-expected revenues.
    Those words come from Rep. Steve Holt (R-Denison) and Sen. Jason Schultz (R-Schleswig) who met with constituents Saturday, Dec. 12 in downtown Harlan as part of a pre-legislative question and answer session.
    “This session’s going to be dominated by budgetary issues,” said Holt.  “It’s no surprise to anybody that the economy in Iowa is slowing down,” which equates to lower taxes coming in, and lower revenue.
    It’s estimated the state will see $150 million in new revenue next year, but due to up to $400 million in built-in spending increases, the legislature will have some tough decisions to make right out of the gate.  “This is why it’s going to be a tough budget year,” he said.