Under the Golden Dome, Too

By: 
Linda Upmeyer

“Untrue” claims skew new gun legislation
 
Another productive week in the Iowa House is under our belts. We continue to work hard on behalf of Iowans as we move various pieces of policy forward that will make Iowa a better place to live and work.
     Through the passage of amendment H-1177 to SF 427, for the second time this year we passed a package of legislation to the Senate to further improve and protect Iowans’ 2nd Amendment rights. This legislation will better protect the privacy of permit holders, make it simpler to renew an individual’s carry permit and extend the validity of a permit to purchase from one to five years. The bill also gives parents the right to decide if and when to train their child on how to safely operate a gun. Finally, the bill legalizes the use of suppressors after all federal requirements have been met.
     I have heard some claims that this legislation makes sweeping changes to our gun laws that will endanger Iowans. This is simply untrue. The changes contained in this package are bipartisan, sensible and uphold our constitutional rights.
     National Volunteer Week is April 12-18. Volunteering is so key to preserving and strengthening our state by fulfilling the unmet needs of our communities. In Iowa we understand the importance and value of not relying on someone else to fix problems, but instead we step up, give back and chip in when a need arises.
     There is no doubt volunteering enriches the lives of everyone involved in the effort. In fact, according to the Corporation for National & Community Service, research has shown individuals who volunteer live significantly longer, healthier and better lives. 
     Thank you to everyone who gives their time through volunteering. Whether it’s reading to kids, helping neighbors in need or serving at a local non-profit organization, all of these contributions go a long way in strengthening our communities. I would encourage all Iowans to continue your volunteer efforts throughout the week and if possible, go a step further to help improve the life of someone around you.
     On a different note, throughout the legislative session, we are privileged to recognize some of our outstanding Iowans, either through an introduction on the House floor or by passing a resolution in their honor.
     This year we’ve recognized the National Gatorade High School Volleyball Player of the Year, the UNI Men’s basketball team for an incredible season (which includes Sheffield’s very own Seth Tuttle, the Missouri Valley Conference Player of the Year), the Grand View University Wrestling NAIA National Championship team, inspiring entrepreneurs like Shelly Zimmerman (owner of Harrison Thornburgh Insurance in Dumont and the recipient of the Deb Dalziel Woman Entrepreneur of the Year Award) and many more. The talent we have in our state, and right here in north Iowa, will never cease to amaze me. 
 
     As we move forward this session, please feel free to contact me anytime with any questions or feedback you may have.  I can always be reached at linda.upmeyer@legis.iowa.gov or (515) 281-4618.

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