From State Rep. Linda Upmeyer:
We have seen steady rainfall at the Capitol this week as we continue our work to wrap up session. We have the hardworking taxpayers of Iowa at the forefront of our minds as the legislative process begins to draw to a close. Budget negotiations between the House, Senate, and Governor’s office are moving forward and I am optimistic final agreements will soon be reached. During these discussions, we have remained dedicated to ensuring that we do not spend more than we take in and we do not use one-time funds for ongoing expenses.
Earlier this year I distributed a legislative survey to my current House district and the new area I hope to represent after this fall’s election. I received a great response from the residents of the area and enjoyed reviewing their comments and the results. It is great to know that so many people took time to complete the survey and provide feedback about issues that are most important to them.
Below are the results of the survey. It is affirming to know that Iowans rank creating jobs, improving the economy, and reducing government spending as their top priorities. We will continue to focus on these initiatives in the Legislature.
1. What two issues do you believe are the most important for the Legislature to address in 2012?
A. Education
B. Jobs and the Economy
C. Health Care
D. Tax Relief
E. Government Spending
F. Crime and Drugs
G. Immigration
H. Marriage
Answers:
A. 13%
B. 27%
C. 26%
D. 7%
E. 26%
F. 2%
G. 16%
H. 14%
2. Which way do you believe is the best way to create jobs in Iowa?
A. Government incentive programs like the Iowa Values Fund
B. Improve general business climate for all Iowa employers
C. Provide tax credits for businesses to expand or start in Iowa
D. Other________________
ANSWERS
A. 17%
B. 57%
C. 21%
D. 13%
3. In Iowa we pay a variety of taxes and fees to fund government. Do you feel like you pay:
A. Too much
B. Not enough
C. The right amount
ANSWERS
A. 41%
B. 1%
C. 28%
4. The legislature is considering a number of reforms to Iowa’s education system. One reform includes requiring third grade students to show proficiency in reading before allowing them to advance to fourth grade. Do you support or oppose this concept?
A. Support
B. Oppose
ANSWERS
A. 73%
B. 27%
5. Repairs to Iowa’s roads and bridges are substantially funded by user fees we pay on gasoline and vehicle registration. These dollars are constitutionally protected and can only be spent on road and bridge repairs.
Do you support raising the gas tax to pay for these repairs?
A. Raise the gas tax
B. Don’t raise the gas tax
C. Find savings elsewhere in state government
Do you support raising vehicle registration fees to help pay for these repairs?
A. Raise registration fees
B. Don’t raise registration fees
C. Find savings elsewhere in state government
ANSWERS
A. 24%
B. 30%
C. 46%
ANSWERS
A. 19%
B. 36%
C. 45%
6. Which of the following statements is closer to your point of view?
A. State government should do more to solve problems and help meet the needs of people.
B. State government is doing too many things better left to individuals and Iowa employers.
ANSWERS
A. 24%
B. 76%
