A quick recap of the 2026 MBI Legislative Priorities are as follows:
Property Taxes Reforms
If given an opportunity, MBI will strongly advocate for asking the Legislature to adopt language in Iowa Code that would allow K-12 school districts more flexibility in asking their voters to approve capital projects. This does include a second date on the annual calendar. Additionally, MBI will strongly oppose pulling back any SAVE funds intended to cut property taxes. Lastly, MBI will advocate strongly for enhancing Tax Increment Financing as a viable option for Iowa communities to pursue, acknowledging while reforms might be necessary and can be considered to strengthen TIF as a tool.
E-Verify
MBI acknowledges that many of our members currently use E-Verify in their hiring practices. However, we would oppose efforts to mandate that private employers use E-Verify for a variety of reasons.
Statewide Urban Design and Specifications
We recognize the good work that SUDAS performs for promoting uniformity of urban design and construction across Iowa. However, we also acknowledge a lack of contractor representation and will be pursuing policies that encourage contractor representation on the SUDAS board.
Rebuild Iowa Infrastructure Fund
MBI will continue to advocate on spending RIIF casino gaming revenues for public infrastructure needs.