The Iowa landscape in winter is frozen, still, and largely dormant. The Iowa Legislature, on the other hand, is anything but once it convenes each January. This year is no exception. Within the first two weeks of the 2026 session, lawmakers introduced three major property tax reform bills—an early burst of activity we believe signals meaningful opportunities for taxpayer wins in the months ahead.
In this issue of A Better Path Forward, we focus on how Iowa can break free from Washington’s budget chaos while safeguarding our own state finances from similar breakdowns. One key article, “Iowa Depends on Washington—and That’s a Problem We Can Fix,” lays out the Iowa Fiscal Independence Act—a proposal built on transparency about federal funds, disclosure of Washington’s guidance, and stronger l...
As summer winds down and classrooms fill again, “back to school” season is in full swing. For many families, this time of year brings new routines, fresh goals, and—whether you’re a student, parent, or taxpayer—a renewed focus on the importance of education. That’s why this issue of our magazine includes a special section dedicated to schooling in Iowa, with three articles that explore the quality...
Iowans have always believed in doing things the right way. We believe in living within our means, keeping government in check, and making sure families—not bureaucrats—decide how to spend their hard-earned dollars. Those principles guide everything we do at Iowans for Tax Relief Foundation. In this issue, you’ll find timely and thought-provoking articles that highlight the growing challenges—and ...
Iowans know the value of hard work, fiscal responsibility, and personal freedom. Yet, as property tax burdens rise and government spending expands, our state faces challenges that demand bold, conservative solutions. In this issue, we examine Iowa’s property tax problem and show how some local governments continue to raise taxes despite new restrictions. We also explore the economic impact of thes...
The November election will determine more than just who sits in the White House and which party controls Congress. While the candidates’ governing philosophies will shape future decisions in Washington, DC, there are crucial policy issues that will need attention once the winners are sworn in. At the forefront for Iowans for Tax Relief Foundation is the impending expiration of the Tax Cuts and Job...
Iowans know how to make the most out of our summers. We squeeze all of the warm weather and sunlight we can out of each day. Experience tells us that what looked like an endless season of baseball and softball games, trips to the fair, and family vacations will come to an end all too quickly. Soon enough the back-to-school preparations will begin in full force. Experience also tells us we are goin...
Iowa’s legislature continued the tax cut momentum in 2024, by passing the fourth round of income tax reforms in recent years. This new legislation will push Iowa’s personal income tax down to a single, flat rate of 3.8 percent in 2025, delivering more than $1 billion of tax relief over the next six years. Further, the legislature passed two important taxpayer protections, which include a two-third...
In a world with constant change and shifting challenges, ITR Foundation remains focused on positioning Iowa to win the ongoing competition among the states for people, workers, and businesses. We won’t rest on the accomplishments of recent years, but instead we will keep highlighting ways to make Iowa even better. That’s why we are excited to bring you this edition of Forward, which includes a s...
From being the leading voice on multiple rounds of income tax cuts and property tax reforms, to helping peel back regulations on workers and entrepreneurs, Iowans for Tax Relief Foundation is advocating for free-market principles that empower Iowans to lead the lives they want. We’ve eliminated the inheritance tax and retirement income is now tax-free, too. These are all changes that shape our ...