DES MOINES – Gov. Terry E. Branstad on Jan. 12delivered the 2016 Condition of the State address to the Iowa General Assembly and the people of Iowa.
In his address, Gov. Branstad struck an optimistic tone about the upcoming legislative session and the future of Iowa.
The governor also spoke about the need for a responsible budget, and setting priorities that match those of Iowans across the state. The budget he released today includes more than $145 million in new funding for pre-K through 12th grade students and teachers.
He highlighted his innovative idea aimed at addressing two issues with long-term funding needs: education infrastructure and water quality.
Recalling the help wanted signs he and Lt. Governor Reynolds have seen on their 99 county-tour throughout Iowa, Gov. Branstad called for further focus on aligning career training for Iowa students and workers, making it easier for Iowans to get the training they need for the jobs they seek. Many of the jobs of the future will be related to green energy, and the governor wants to position Iowa for success.
In his speech he announced that Lt. Governor Reynolds will be leading efforts to craft the State Energy Plan. The State Energy Plan will build on the renewable energy success already seen in Iowa and help provide a strategic blueprint to capitalize on our renewable energy success and grow our opportunities in the future.
Finally, Gov. Branstad highlighted our state motto, “Our liberties we prize and our rights we shall maintain,” and the efforts of the Chief Justice, the NAACP, and state agencies to demonstrate his desire to work with legislators to address criminal justice issues this legislative session.
See Branstad’s budget proposal here.
Read Branstad’s Condition of the State address here.
