The second regular session of the 89th Iowa General Assembly is set to begin next Monday, Jan. 10. Gov. Kim Reynolds is scheduled to present her budget and “Condition of the State” message to the Legislature on Tuesday at 6 p.m.
As the 2022 legislative session begins, please take some time to pray for legislators and their families. Particularly during a pandemic, it is difficult for them to be away from their families during the week.
For reference, here’s the switchboard numbers to leave a message for your legislator: Iowa House is (515) 281-3221, Iowa Senate is (515) 281-3371. You can find out who your legislator is on our website.
POVERTY AWARENESS MONTH
“Solidarity means much more than engaging in sporadic acts of generosity. It means thinking and acting in terms of community. It means that the lives of all are prior to the appropriation of goods by a few. It also means combatting the structural causes of poverty, inequality, the lack of work, land and housing, the denial of social and labor rights.”
Pope Francis, Fratelli Tutti no. 116, quoting World Meeting for Popular Movements.
You can respond to Pope Francis’ challenge to empower and join with persons in poverty by participating in Poverty Awareness Month in January. You can sign up to receive daily reflections by email and learn more about poverty as well.
‘IOWA HACER’ IS UP AND RUNNING
A new advocacy group has been formed to give voice to Latino parents on quality, affordable educational options for their children. It’s called Iowa HACER - Hispanics Aligned for Choice in Education Reform. They are ramping up with organizing meetings in different parts of the state. Visit the website for more information.