DES MOINES, IOWA (December 19, 2025) — The Iowa Business Council (IBC) announced its 2026 public policy priorities at its final board meeting of 2025. The IBC serves as a catalyst for economic growth throughout Iowa while driving innovative policy solutions to enhance opportunity for every Iowan. The IBC 2026 public policy priorities include:
Competitive tax policy:
The IBC will focus on maximizing the recent efforts to make Iowa’s holistic tax system more competitive for individuals and businesses.
Specifically in 2026, the IBC supports efforts that enhance long-term competitiveness in the state’s property tax system. Becoming more competitive in property taxes will enable businesses to invest more dollars into their companies and enhance housing affordability for Iowa’s citizens.
Workforce initiatives:
The availability of a talented pipeline is critical for long-term economic prosperity in Iowa. The IBC will continue to advocate for initiatives that grow Iowa’s workforce including work-based learning programs, child care, and housing.
Federal policy initiatives:
The IBC supports federal immigration reform and modernization as an effective tool to bolster economic development and population growth. Increasing visa caps, expediting processing, and providing efficient opportunities to retain foreign born talent who were educated in Iowa are commonsense approaches that will enhance Iowa’s workforce.
Additionally, the IBC will work with federal policymakers on trade policy, regulatory, and permitting reform, and a multi-year Farm Bill.
“Our 2026 public policy priorities focus on strengthening the Iowa workforce and creating a competitive business climate that supports growth in every corner of the state. We’re committed to working with policymakers to advance practical solutions that make Iowa a destination for talent, innovation, and investment,” stated Gage Kent, chair of the IBC and Chairman and CEO of KENT WORLDWIDE.
“The IBC looks forward to working with the Iowa General Assembly, Governor Reynolds, and our Congressional delegation on policy solutions that strengthen Iowa’s economic opportunity and set the stage for future long-term growth,” said Joe Murphy, President of the Iowa Business Council.
About the Iowa Business Council
The Iowa Business Council (IBC) is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization whose 21 members are the chief decision makers of major Iowa employers. Employing over 150,000 Iowans, IBC member companies have invested billions of dollars of capital in Iowa's commercial infrastructure; lead the way in technology innovation, R&D, and grants procured; and are often the driving financial and volunteer forces behind philanthropic efforts all over the state.
IBC member companies include: Alliant Energy; Atlantic Coca-Cola Bottling Company; Casey’s General Stores Inc; Collins Aerospace; Corteva Agriscience; Deere and Company; Fareway; HNI Corporation; Hy-Vee Inc, Iowa Bankers Association; Kent Corporation; MercyOne; MidAmerican Energy Company; Pella Corporation; Principal; Ruan Transportation Management Systems; The Weitz Company; UnityPoint Health; Vermeer Corporation; Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of Iowa; and Workiva.
