The first legislative briefing of the 2015 session was held in Washington yesterday morning. State Senator Rich Taylor, State Senator Kevin Kinney and State Representative Jarad Klein were in attendance; Representative Dave Heaton was absent due to attending a funeral. Each legislator provided an opening statement and then citizens in attendance were able to ask questions or advocate for issues.

Klein explained these events are important, as they provide a chance to speak with constituents and gain new ideas. In his opening remarks he stated the governor’s budget is not the same as the House’s budget.

Citizens asked about a variety of issues, ranging from education, which included allowable growth and school start dates, to public health initiatives, to mental health services, to gas tax formulas, among others.

In regard to Governor Branstad’s budget not allowing to continue to operate the Mt. Pleasant and Clarinda mental health facilities, Taylor said he was blindsided. He encouraged citizens to reach out to the governor and voice their concerns. Taylor said there is a need for more beds, more care for mental health patients in Iowa.

For more information from the event, listen to tomorrow’s news on KCIIRadio.