The Iowa Legislature concluded its 2026 legislative session this past Sunday after sending multiple bills to Governor Kim Reynolds’ desk. State representative Tom Jeneary, a Republican from Le Mars representing District 3, explained to KLEM what the extended, 35-hour long final day of the session was like.
The Legislature passed a comprehensive property tax plan to wrap up the session, which the Iowa Department of Management says would save taxpayers over $4.2 billion over six years. Rep. Jeneary explained the basics of the bill.
The bill also establishes a homestead exemption that’s worth 10% of the value of a home, between $5,500 and $20,000, and increases taxes on multi-family buildings by 6% over three years.
Another bill agreed to by the deadline increased mandatory minimum sentencing for those convicted of a third felony.
Other bills agreed to on the final day of the session included placing a constitutional amendment on the ballot in November that would require supermajorities in the Legislature to raise income or corporate taxes, a bill to block the Governor from closing or restricting houses of worship, and a bill to place a 5-cent tax on vape products for pediatric cancer research. Governor Reynolds will have thirty days to sign the bills into law or veto them.
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Jeneary took part in his final session as a state legislator last weekend, and speaking to KLEM, he reflected on his time in the Iowa House of Representatives.
Jeneary has served in the House since 2019, previously serving as chair of the Natural Resources committee and serving on the Environmental Protection, Health and Human Services, Labor and Workforce, State Government, and Transportation committees. During his time in the Iowa House, Jeneary led efforts to improve the Iowa dental industry and expand quality dental services for Iowans. He says one of the most notable moments during his time in office was the passing of Iowa’s “fetal heartbeat” law.
Jeneary says working to increase funding for juvenile detention centers was another highlight of his tenure.
He says he’ll miss working with fellow representatives on the floor in Des Moines.
Jeneary’s term will formally expire on January 1st, 2027.
