Senators announce disability and public-health advocacy days as parties prepare to caucus

Sen. Trungariot announced a disability policy advocacy day in the Rotunda, saying, "Over 15 organizations and 200 Iowans with disabilities, family members, and service providers will be there in the Rotunda wanting to visit with you about policies that can help people with disabilities live, work, play, and flourish in our communities." He invited colleagues to attend and said lunch would be provided by Triple B's, a Johnston restaurant "staffed by over 30 Iowans with disabilities."

The announcement, made during the Senate's opening period, aims to give disability advocacy organizations direct access to lawmakers on policy issues affecting employment, services and supports. "So all are welcome," Sen. Trungariot said, noting the event is scheduled for today.

Sen. Guth announced that the Iowa Health Initiative will hold an advocacy day from 2 to 4 p.m. in the Rotunda to press for measures to reduce smoking and nicotine use. Guth told colleagues that "Tobacco is responsible for 31 percent of all cancer deaths statewide," and urged senators to stop by the event to learn more about policies the body could consider.

In brief procedural announcements, Sen. Weiner said, "Democrats will caucus in Room 24," and Sen. Klimasz told the chamber that "Republicans will caucus in Room 22." The presiding officer recessed the Senate to allow both parties to caucus.

The session otherwise proceeded with routine opening business; the journal was approved as printed and the Senate recessed for party caucuses. No formal motions or votes on legislation are recorded in the transcript excerpt.