Des Moines Sun

DES MOINES - Representative Phil Thompson (R-Boone) successfully led the passage of House File 2661 through the Iowa House on Monday, March 25th. The bill, aimed at supporting law enforcement, contains three significant policies.

The first major change outlined in the bill is related to IPERS for Sheriffs and Deputies, which includes an increase in the applicable percentage for retirement benefit payments. Additionally, the bill ensures that individuals charged with the murder of a peace officer or corrections officer, or felonious assault of an officer, are not eligible for bail. Lastly, it introduces a tax credit of up to $2,000 for public safety officers relocating to Iowa.

Representative Phil Thompson emphasized the importance of the bill in his closing remarks, stating, "House Republicans back the blue. This chamber backs the blue. It's my hope that we can pass this bill unanimously and send a resounding message to law enforcement officers and correctional officers across the country that Iowa is a place that respects law enforcement and supports them in word and deed."

The bill received unanimous support in the Iowa House, with a vote of 93-0.