Electric cooperatives discuss priorities as Iowa’s 2026 Legislative Session begins

More than 150 senior staff and directors from Iowa electric cooperatives were in downtown Des Moines on January 13 to attend a legislative "welcome back" reception at the start of the 91^st Iowa General Assembly. At the event, co-op advocates discussed priorities face to face with their state legislators.

The Iowa Association of Electric Cooperatives (IAEC) hosted the reception in conjunction with the Iowa Biotechnology Association, the Iowa Communications Alliance, the Iowa Institute for Cooperatives and FUELIowa.

"Hosting this annual reception at the start of the legislative session is a way for Iowa electric cooperatives to form long-term relationships based on trust and open communication," remarked Leslie Kaufman, IAEC executive vice president. "With many new legislators and new faces in leadership this session, we value every opportunity to talk about the cooperative business model and the needs of our member-consumers."

Representatives from Iowa's locally owned electric cooperatives covered several important issues that could impact the affordability and reliability of electricity for the members and communities we serve.

Electric cooperatives will again focus on protecting Iowa's defined electric service territories, an important law that helps ensure every corner of the state receives consistent, cost-effective electric service. Another legislative challenge that could resurface involves third-party or "community solar" proposals that would attempt to allow non-utility solar developers to provide retail electric service inside an established utility's service area, in direct conflict with service territory law.

Iowa's electric co-ops are also seeking to further protect utility workers, who encounter threats, harassment and assaults while on the job. Strengthening penalties for violence against utility workers reaffirms our commitment to the safety of cooperative employees and our communities.

In the coming months, Iowa's 91st General Assembly will be addressing a multitude of issues, including energy-related matters that are central to Iowa's rural economy. Iowa electric cooperatives will again be important advocates for a balanced approach in addressing energy issues as we work to power lives and empower communities. Learn more about our advocacy efforts at https://www.IAruralpower.org.

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IAEC Director of Communications