Last-Minute Movement on Construction-Related BillsThis week there was a little movement on a few issues that ABC of Iowa has been following (see below). The Senate and House leadership also moved closer to ending session soon by sending several budget bills to conference committee to work out their differences. It is possible that session could end next week if a budget deal is struck within the next few days. Tuesday is supposed to be the last day of session, but it is not likely to end by then.
- Mechanics Lien Changes (HF 675): passed out of the Senate Ways & Means Committee this week. ABC of Iowa supports this bill. It passed the House last year, but has sat in the Senate committee ever since.
- “Storm Chaser Legislation” (SF 466): amended by the Senate this week and sent back to the House. This bill originally passed the Senate last year, and was amended in the House. ABC of Iowa opposed the original Senate version, but had worked with the House to ensure that the bill had adequate protections for contractors working in good faith. The House has not indicated whether they will accept or reject the Senate’s new amendment.
- Alternative Delivery Method Pilot Project (SF 2264): the subcommittee in the Senate Appropriations Committee was reassigned so that it would be more favorable for the bill, and the subcommittee met this week. It still seems unlikely that the bill will move out of full committee.