Adjournment sine die by the Iowa Legislature seems unlikely any time soon. The Senate Democratic majority cannot find common ground with House Republican Majority on the budget, the budget must be approved before adjournment and the Governor decided to reduce his budget target by $161 million this week on the 114th day of the session. The disagreement is centered on allowable growth for education, health care and job creation. Said Senate President Jack Kibbie, “I haven't heard no compromise on anything.” Senator Joe Bolkcom said, “I am very patient. Senate Democrats will continue to work to protect our priorities in education, health care, public safety and the environment. Stay tuned!”

As long as the legislature is in session,controversial bills, such as House File 657 which prohibits late-term abortions, will stay alive. HF 657 was subject of a “discharge petition,” signed by 26 Senators to move it out of committee this week. Read the Des Moines Register coverage of this bill here.

Below is a link to a YouTube video in which Senate Majority Leader Mike Gronstal describes the status of adjournment.