Sen. Tom Shipley

Maddy summarySF 2178 expands eligibility for Iowa's lifetime hunting, fishing, and fur harvester licenses. It allows applicants who will turn 65 during the calendar year they apply to qualify, rather than requiring them to have already turned 65 by the application date. This change directly affects Iowans aged 64 who apply for these licenses in the year they reach age 65. The bill modifies existing law to make the eligibility requirement more inclusive for applicants approaching their 65th birthday.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates Iowa law governing control of a deceased person's cremated remains. It requires that if a designated person (like a family member) fails to claim cremated remains within 30 days of written notice from a third party, or doesn't act within 24-40 hours of death notification, their authority automatically transfers to the next competent adult listed in the law. The bill also removes the authority of a designee if they face murder or manslaughter charges related to the decedent's death. This directly affects individuals who appoint others to handle funeral arrangements and ensures remains are managed by a responsible party when the initial designee does not act. The changes clarify procedural steps for final disposition without altering core rights.

Maddy summarySJR 2008 is a non-binding resolution passed by the Iowa General Assembly supporting the elimination of the U.S. Department of Education and the transfer of education authority to state and local governments. It argues that federal education regulations have caused inefficiency and stagnant student reading scores despite high spending, and that states are better positioned to address local educational needs. The resolution urges the U.S. Congress to cooperate with efforts to dissolve the Department of Education, citing the Tenth Amendment as the constitutional basis for state control. This resolution does not change federal policy but formally expresses Iowa's position on education governance.

Maddy summaryThis resolution formally recognizes the YMCA's 175th anniversary and expresses the Iowa Senate's appreciation for its community service. It highlights the YMCA's historical contributions, including founding programs like basketball and Father's Day, and its ongoing work serving over 250,000 Iowans annually through youth development, health initiatives, and social services. The resolution does not create new programs or change laws - it is a ceremonial expression of support for the YMCA's mission.

Maddy summaryThis resolution (SR 103) is a ceremonial Senate measure recognizing Easterseals Iowa's 100th anniversary. It formally honors the organization for its century-long work supporting Iowans with disabilities through inclusion, advocacy, and community services. The resolution designates January 20, 2026, as "Easterseals Iowa Centennial Celebration Day" and expresses the Senate's appreciation for the organization's mission and contributions. This is a symbolic gesture with no new funding, programs, or legal requirements.

Maddy summaryThis resolution honors Staff Sergeant William Nathaniel Howard and Staff Sergeant Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar, Iowa National Guard members killed in action during a December 2025 attack in Syria. It recognizes their military service, posthumous promotions, and sacrifices, while also acknowledging three wounded Iowa Guard soldiers from the same incident. The resolution directs that a copy be sent to the families of the two fallen soldiers as a formal tribute. As a ceremonial resolution, it has no policy or legal effect but serves to memorialize their service.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires a separate pilot vehicle to lead or follow farm equipment exceeding 22 feet in width or extending over the road centerline when traveling on most Iowa highways. It applies to large agricultural machinery (like combines or large trailers) moving on multi-lane roads or two-lane roads with one lane in each direction, but exempts trips under one mile on primary, farm-to-market, or paved secondary roads. Violating this rule is a $45 misdemeanor fine. The law changes existing safety rules by adding this escort requirement for farm equipment on non-interstate highways, where current regulations did not address such size or positioning.

Maddy summaryThis bill bars railway corporations from idling train engines longer than one hour when stationary within half a mile of residential neighborhoods in cities. It directly affects rail companies operating near homes, imposing fines of $500 to $5,000 per violation for exceeding the time limit. The rule applies to any stationary train in city areas zoned for housing, with penalties enforced under existing state code. The law aims to reduce noise and pollution from prolonged engine idling near residential properties.

Maddy summarySF 22 regulates how drivers can use electronic devices while operating a vehicle. It specifically addresses the use of these devices in a voice-activated or hands-free mode. The bill establishes penalties for any violations of these new rules. These provisions and penalties are set to become effective on July 1, 2025.

Maddy summaryThis bill (SF 245) allows Iowa-based alcoholic beverage manufacturers (like distilleries) to ship products directly to consumers within Iowa, subject to specific rules. Manufacturers must obtain a new "direct shipper license" ($25 fee), ship only to residents aged 21+ for personal use (not resale), and comply with volume limits (e.g., up to 9 liters annually per customer if producing over 150,000 proof gallons yearly). Shipments require federal registration, special labeling ("SIGNATURE OF PERSON AGE 21+ REQUIRED"), and must be delivered by licensed carriers. Manufacturers must also pay Iowa a 50% fee on the wholesale price of shipped products. The bill does not affect existing retail sales or delivery by licensed stores.