Before the legislative session began this year, Governor Terry Branstad proposed repurposing some of the funds from the one-cent sales tax to address water quality solutions across the state.

District 47 State Representative Chip Baltimore applauds the governor thinking outside of the box, rather than just increasing the sales tax by another penny and further burdening Iowans in tough economic times. However, Baltimore believes the details will be critical in determining whether or not the proposal will move forward.

“How are we doing in terms of identifying exactly what the problems are and where they’re coming from and in turn, what are the solutions that we need to best address this issue. And then, how are we going to pay for it. These conversations are taking place within the capitol (building).”

Currently, the one-cent sales tax is dedicated to school infrastructure needs in all districts and it is scheduled to expire in 2029. However, Branstad’s proposal would extend it to 2049 and take some of the growth from that tax and use it for water quality projects.