DES MOINES, Iowa – In conjunction with Gov. Kim Reynolds’ public health proclamation on Monday, Iowa House and Senate leadership announced they would extend the suspension of the legislative session through May 15 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The health and safety of all Iowans continue to be our primary focus as we monitor the situation and make decisions. I know my colleagues are eager to return to the Capitol to address priorities and complete our legislative work as soon as we can,” Speaker Pat Grassley, R-New Hartford, said.
“Iowans have been patient and played a critical role in slowing the spread of the Coronavirus during this unprecedented public health emergency. We need to get folks back to their jobs, schools, churches, and social lives in a responsible way as soon as possible. I want to thank Governor Reynolds for her cautious approach to reopen our state and return to normal,” he added.
“I appreciate the governor’s leadership through this public health emergency and I fully support her decision to begin to safely reopen the Iowa economy,” Senate Majority Leader Jack Whitver, R-Ankeny, said. “Prior to the pandemic, Iowa had the best economy in state history. As we begin to set the stage for a return of the Iowa Legislature, I look forward to working with the House of Representatives and Governor Reynolds to put policies in place to rebuild the economy to that level.”
The Legislative Council will meet over teleconference this week. A date for the meeting is yet to be determined.