Eastern Iowa democrats are asking residents for support during the legislative session that begins Monday, with republicans in control.
Michelle O'Neill reports State Senator Rob Hogg, State Senator Rita Hart, and State Representative Phyllis Thede plan to "play defense" but also push their own goals.
Summary
Senate Democratic Leader Hogg, from Cedar Rapids, is concerned the GOP will try to pass a photo I.D. requirement to vote. But up to 7% of Iowa residents don't have drivers licenses.
Representative Thede, from Davenport, says one of her top priorities is to increase education funding in general, plus fix the inequality in state funding of schools. She supports a bill from the Iowa Youth Congress. Thede is also very concerned about mental health insurance provided through Medicaid.
One priority for Wheatland State Senator Rita Hart is to improve water quality across Iowa. She says it's going to take collaboration and "a ton of money."
The three democrats also plan to work to preserve collective bargaining rights and medical coverage for those in Iowa who have insurance through the Affordable Care Act.