Money in Politics
Money in Politics takes our attention and holds it. Todd Pettys helped to understand some of the history of campaign finance as he led discussion on Buying the Vote. About 25 people attended the meeting on Dec. 1. In short, Mr. Pettys led us to understand that the author, Robert Mutch, takes a negative position toward Citizen's United. Mr. Pettys encouraged us to define corruption and quid pro quo. Since there is no direct link between campaign contributions and the votes of those elected to Congress, there is no corruption. If limits are placed on spending, then it appears that First Amendment rights are compromised. I want to thank Jean Clark for contacting Todd Pettys and for his willingness to lead us through the complexities of the history of campaign finance.
We will continue to talk about this topic at our January 26th meeting at the Duncan Room, 315 Iowa Ave, lower level. Your opinions on topics of money and politics will be sent to LWVUS in the form of consensus.
View this link to hear Jim Leach speak to LWV Des Moines about Money in Politics.
Go to:
https://www.facebook.com/League-of-Women-Voters-of-Iowa-332644123428745/
Voting Rights
A League Priority
The LWV advocated for online voter registration and it may become a reality in Iowa. Paul Pate, Secretary of State, will have online options available soon. The League favors actions to modernize laws and make registration easier for people.
The League opposes laws that require voters to show an ID.
We want to change the Iowa Code to allow felons who have completed their sentence to vote.
Emergency Medical Services
The League wants to make EMS an essential service that must be provided and funded. The League endorses stable funding steams for fire and EMS to meet minimum standards.
Water Quality
The League wants to protect Iowa's water resources by increasing funding for nutrient reduction programs and requiring participation.
Expanding the Bottle Bill to include to include other drink container is good for Iowa.
The League favors fully funding the Resource Enhancement and Protection (REAP) Program.
Consensus: Money in Politics
January 26, 2016, 7:00 p.m.
315 Iowa Ave., Duncan Room
Did you know?
LWVIA has co-presidents!
Bonnie Pitz
Deborah Turner, MD
Bonnie has been president and Deborah has been vice president since 2012. Learn more about our League Leaders here.
No Bakken
The Department of Natural Resource Hearing will be December 16th, in Des Moines, 5-7 p.m. at the Wallace State Office Building, Auditorium, 502 East 9th Street, Des Moines, Iowa. Dakota Access has to get a permit from the DNR to cross sovereign lands, publicly owned land and water, under the jurisdiction of the DNR, and so the DNR is holding a Public Hearing.
If you wish to make comments at this hearing, you will sign up at the beginning. You may also simply attend to show the strength of opposition.
A good number of League members spoke out at the Boone County IUB Hearing on November 12, 2016. Co-President, Bonnie Pitz, presented the League position on Natural Resources.
In addition to providing comment at the Dec. 16 meeting, comments can be made until 5:00 pm Tuesday, January 5, 2016 by email at
SLER@dnr.iowa.gov or by sending written comments to:
Iowa Department of Natural Resources
Sovereign Lands Construction Permit Program
502 East 9th Street
Des Moines, Iowa 50319
Information about the No Baaken Pipeline can be found at: www.nobakken.com
League Opposes FY 2016 Budget Amendments Undermining Clean Water Rule
LWVUS joined a letter with organizations from across the country urging Congress to reject amendments to the FY 2016 Budget that would undermine the EPA's Clean Water Rule.
Our league is doing good work!
- Membership is up.
- Voters registered at grocery stores, International Day, MCC and MHS.
- Two forums for candidates held.
- Study on EMS, TIF, and Water Quality ongoing.
- Successful fundraising.
- Great participation at meetings.
Click on the image to access LWV voter guide.