Click here for a synopsis of the 2022 Omnibus Education Bill
Grassroots involvement of members in every corner of the state is the heart of the association’s lobbying strategy. Although the ISEA’s government relations specialists play a key role during the legislative session, legislators want–and need–to hear how their actions impact children and education back home. You don’t have to be an expert on school finance, or anything else, but you are the expert on how legislation will affect your students and your school.
Important Lobbying Resources
HOTLINE: The ISEA Hotline is a weekly roundup of what is moving at the Iowa Statehouse with a particular focus on what will impact public education, students and professionals. Check your e-mail for the weekly hotline update on Friday mornings during the legislative session.
LEGISLATIVE WEBINARS: ISEA government relations staff host bi-weekly legislative webinars on Thursday evenings during session. Learn first-hand about relevant legislation and ask our lobbyists questions. You will find links to these webinars in our members-only Hotline e-mail updates.
Click here to go to our Members Only section of Lobbying Resources to find our Legislative Bills of Interest Document and links to past legislative webinars.
To find your state legislator’s phone number, you may use our searchable online Iowa Legislative Directory or call the Senate switchboard at 515-281-3371 or the House switchboard at 515-281-3221.
Keep in mind that most telephone calls are taken by a staff member and not the actual legislator. If they are not available, you may also leave a message. If you speak with someone other than your legislator, take down their name.
Upon reaching your state legislator on the phone, it’s easiest to follow these basic steps:
Sending a letter or an e-mail is a great way to communicate with a state legislator. Individually written messages, rather than mass generated form letters, make a greater impression. Type your name, address, and phone number at the top. Make sure to use a personal e-mail address when sending an e-mail. The Iowa Legislature is generally in session January through April. When the Legislature is out of session, it may be more effective to send your letter or message to your legislator’s home.
To a State Senator:
The Honorable (Full Name)
Iowa Senate
Iowa State Capitol
Des Moines, IA 50319
Dear Senator (Last Name)
To a State Representative:
The Honorable (Full Name)
Iowa State Capitol
Des Moines, IA 50319
Dear Representative (Last Name)