The Iowa legislature has finally put forward a bill that will fund the Trust Fund—a direct result of support from Iowans across the state.

Here’s what you need to know about the WISE Solution, introduced by Rep. Bobby Kaufmann on Tuesday, March 14—it’s WISE because it invests in:

1. Water;
2. Infrastructure;
3. Soil; and it’s for our
4. Economy

Learn more about the bill, spread the word on social media, then contact your legislator to help us get this done.

Key Facts

• This proposal provides a dedicated funding source for other concepts advanced in legislation this year and the water quality bill passed by the Iowa House in 2016.
• The proposed legislation is the only plan brought forth this session that will legitimately achieve the required $4 billion in funding needs identified by Iowa’s Nutrient Reduction Strategy to achieve a 45% reduction in nutrient runoff by 2030.
• Only approach to funding water quality that has been vetted by Iowans.  63% of Iowans supported creating the trust fund in 2010.

How It Works

• Phases in funding for the Natural Resources and Outdoor Recreation over 3 years with a sales tax increase of 1/8th of a cent each year.
• Reduces individual income taxes for all Iowans by zeroing out the lowest tax brackets proportionally to the increase in sales tax.
• Converts the sales tax on pressurized water into a water excise tax and creates a drinking water treatment financial assistance program for installing or upgrading drinking water infrastructure and source water protection projects. This program functions independently of the Trust Fund and is managed by the Iowa Finance Authority.
• Clarifies the trust fund formula (aka “Code 461”) to ensure at least 60% of the funding goes to water quality practices outlined in the Nutrient Reduction Strategy with annual reporting and audit provisions to guarantee accountability.

How to Get Involved

• Talk to your legislator