State Rep. Craig Willaims (R-Manning) says week 13 of the Iowa legislative session was quieter than expected; however, the week included major developments in school funding, property tax relief, and affordable housing. According to Williams, the most consequential bill passed was Senate File 167 (SF167), which increases total K-12 public school spending by 2.8 percent for Fiscal Year (FY) 2026, made up by a two-percent increase in Supplemental State Aid (SSA), nearly $35 million in teacher salary increases, and adjustments to improve transportation and operational sharing for rural districts. Williams says, “This agreement is 8 weeks later than it was supposed to be – causing some consternation in school budgeting across the state. The final product is not what was hoped for by school boards but is better than anticipated.” Lawmakers also approved House File 947 (HF947), which allows landowners to build accessory dwelling units (ADUs) on their property to expand affordable housing options. ADUs are essentially small homes built near or attached to existing single-family homes that can free up larger structures in the market. The Senate also passed HF969, expanding disability coverage for first responders who develop any type of cancer due to their service. Currently, 14 types of cancer are covered under Iowa’s Presumptive Disability Law. The bill now returns to the House for additional consideration.
