Returning to the Capitol
by Liz Mathis Iowa Senate · June 4th, 2020


We have returned to the Capitol this week after a suspended 2020 legislative session. Before I left, I made a drive-through appointment with Test Iowa in order to make sure I am not a COVID carrier (asymptomatic), in good health and don't put anyone else in jeopardy. The nurses were helpful and organized and I got my results in a few days (it was negative), so I returned to Des Moines with a clean bill of health, a mask and hand sanitizer.

There have been highs and lows during this time away from the State Capitol. Our national political divides seem deeper than ever, a virus has robbed us our health and jobs, and now cities are flowing with rage over the death of George Floyd. The recent peaceful protests and rioting throughout the country and state calls to mind the need to listen and lead. Our collective focus should be justice for Floyd and his family.

This week and next, I will be working with colleagues to present bills about systemic change to our criminal justice system, alternatives to incarceration and fair and effective policing policies. We have been working toward this for some time - but it well overdue.

On the subject of COVID19, since March 17, I have answered several calls about health and safety; closings and reopenings; increasing unemployment claims; business grants and loans; our local & state health departments; health providers; and the Governor's office. The problems are complicated and the answers haven't been easy around schools/education, the CARES Act, testing, telehealth, mental health, food, gatherings, and funding.

One especially emotional, but successful constituent case, was negotiating out-of-state, specialized heart surgery for a local infant. The baby's young parents were so grateful and sent me pictures of their child's recovery.

Now it's time to focus on funding the state's priorities. We need to "sew up" and balance our budgets. This will be a tall order, considering the complicated revenue streams, delayed tax collections and high needs.

I would urge anyone intending to come to the Capitol to see me, just don't. Email me instead at [email protected] and we can arrange a call. My first priority is my constituents who live in my state senate district: Marion, Hiawatha, Robins, Cedar Rapids, Bertram, Ely and rural Southeast Linn County.

Just know I will represent you to the best of my abilities during this unprecedented time. I may not always agree, but I will understand.

We'll get through this.