Des Moines, Iowa - State Representative Ro Foege of Linn/Johnson County approved a package of economic development incentives at a special session today but said the session killed future economic growth in Iowa.

“While I’m pleased that we were able to honor our financial obligations, I’m extremely disappointed that this Legislature destroyed the most successful economic development initiative in our state’s history. This initiative has created over 11,000 new jobs with an average wage of $39,000 per year,” said Foege. “I supported a plan to make sure our economic development efforts continued well into the future, but, unfortunately, it became the victim of partisan politics.”

“Over the last few months, business leaders, labor leaders and Iowans concerned about the future of Iowa have been saying that the state cannot afford to let the Iowa Values Fund die,” added Foege. “After the inaction today in special session, it is clear that the majority party is not listening.”

In a one day session, Iowa Legislators returned to Des Moines after being called back by Governor Tom Vilsack. The Legislature approved a package of incentives for the Department of Economic Development, allowing them to honor commitments made from the Iowa Values Fund. The session was needed after the Iowa Supreme Court struck down the Iowa Values Fund in June. The Legislature also approved money to keep open 56 rural Iowa Workforce Development Centers around Iowa that help Iowa businesses and workers.

“We know that economic growth is a long-term process made up of a series of successes that build upon one another. With no long-term commitment or growth strategy for the state, our national reputation will suffer significantly and I fear many of the 300 businesses interested in creating new jobs in Iowa will locate in another state,” concluded Foege.

# # #

Representative Ro Foege
State Capitol
Des Moines, IA 50309
ro.foege@legis.state.ia.us
www.rofoege.com
515/281-7328 Legislative Desk
319/895-6043 Home 

-30-