March 29, 2024

Branstad predicts Iowa Legislature won’t adjourn until June

DES MOINES (AP) — Gov. Terry Branstad predicts the divided Iowa Legislature will negotiate the overall state budget until early June.

Branstad told reporters Monday he expects lawmakers won’t adjourn until at least the first week of June. Lawmakers’ daily expense payments ended on May 1.

The Democratic-controlled Senate and the Republican-led House are at odds over how much to spend during the fiscal year that begins July 1.

Senate Democrats and Branstad have proposed an overall general fund budget of about $7.34 billion. House Republicans are seeking to spend $7.17 billion, arguing the state shouldn’t spend more than is expected in projected revenue.

Among key differences is spending on K-12 education. Branstad says his office is working with legislative leaders to reach a consensus, but he didn’t provide specific details.