It was supposedly the top issue for a number of conservative lawmakers entering the legislative session in 2021. But nothing happened. In fact, a bill wasn’t even filed — technically.
Representative Jeff Shipley said he had a bill to examine the Governor’s Emergency Powers all ready to go, but Speaker of the House Pat Grassley refused to allow it to be filed.
While Gov. Kim Reynolds has undoubtedly handled the COVID-19 pandemic better than most governors across the country, there was a time she had limited gatherings and closed churches.
While Gov. Reynolds has not been nearly as abusive with the emergency powers granted to the Iowa governor, there is no guarantee she will be governor next time — assuming “this time” ever ends.
And that makes this issue one Iowa conservatives are still hoping is addressed.
“Permanent restrictions and a narrow definition of an ’emergency declaration,'” Ryan said.
Bret Richards, a previous congressional candidate in Iowa, agreed the emergency powers need reform and oversight.
Shawn was more direct.
“Stop the governor’s emergency powers. Still waiting. Republicans are for big government just like the Dems. They all have their own pets.”
B.J. Hoffman, a candidate for Iowa House, also responded with “end the emergency declaration.”
Legislators said last year wasn’t the year to do it as they didn’t want to be viewed as criticizing the governor. However, it is extremely difficult to believe they will do anything in 2022 when she is up for re-election.
Nonetheless, Iowans are counting on Republicans to simply do the right thing instead of the political thing and get this done.
