Iowa’s electric cooperatives connect with Congressional Delegation in Washington, D.C.

More than 25 representatives from Iowa’s electric cooperatives traveled to the Capitol earlier this week to advocate for their co-op members. While in Washington, D.C., the group attended high-level briefings on key issues impacting the electric industry and met with all six members of Iowa’s Congressional Delegation to discuss priorities and concerns.

Advocates shared concerns that could impact electric cooperatives’ ability to provide reliable and affordable power, including federal EPA mandates that may force electric generation plants to shut down prematurely. Additionally, the co-op representatives talked about continued supply chain challenges and how they impact day-to-day operations.

 “These legislative visits in D.C. are valuable opportunities to connect with our members of Congress and their staff. They learn more about our rural Iowa priorities and ask how they can help us in our cooperative mission to power lives and empower communities,” remarked Chuck Soderberg, executive vice president and general manager of IAEC.

Co-op advocates also asked their senators and representatives to support permitting reforms to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) to avoid costly delays in the permitting process. The group urged the Iowa Congressional Delegation to authorize an increase in funding for USDA’s Rural Economic Development Loan & Grant program (REDLG) as part of the Farm Bill reauthorization to support our rural Iowa communities.

FEMA disaster funding was also a concern, as the electric co-op group asked the Iowa Delegation to support supplemental funding for the Disaster Relief Fund to ensure that support is available should a natural disaster strike Iowa. The Disaster Relief Fund is near depletion in response to major natural disasters across the country this year, and recently imposed fund restrictions could delay or prevent necessary grid infrastructure work.

We appreciate the service of Iowa’s elected officials and the tireless work of their staff who help look out for Iowans in the Halls of Congress.

For More Information:

Erin Campbell, IAEC Director of Communications
ecampbell@iowarec.org