BUSINESS CLIMATE AND TAXATION

ICA is committed to improving Iowa’s general business climate through tax code improvements, sensible regulatory structures, impact to business cost drivers and myriad infrastructure investments to ensure a policy environment that spurs business growth. We recognize the extremely positive changes to the tax code since 2018 that radically improve Iowa's standing in comparison to our neighboring states and nationwide. Our members will continue to reap the benefits as full implementation takes place. 

Sound Budgeting

The fiscal health of state and local governments proves to be a determining factor in attracting and retaining businesses. Accordingly, ICA supports a concerted effort to regularly modernize and reform budget practices must be made. This includes strategically reviewing expenditures with a focus on major cost drivers. ICA supports efforts to reduce revenue demand from local and state governments through public pension reforms and other measures that could positively impact local government budgets without tax increases.

Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity is an increasing concern for our members who experience attacks from both physical and digital threats. As our economy continues to move in a digital direction, we must balance the free flow of commerce and information and safeguarding our businesses and consumers from cybersecurity risks. ICA supports the state considering additional resources for small businesses to protect against these threats.

Healthcare and Mental Health

The Alliance supported the move for mental health funding to be managed at the state level as the change positively impacts property taxes at the local level and provided additional funds that can provide additional mental health resources.  We continue to monitor this transition as adequate funding to address mental health for both children and adults is an increasingly important issue to our members and their communities.