One of the last items discussed by the Iowa House of Representatives during the 2026 legislative session was Senate Joint Resolution 11.

Representative for District 23 Ray Sorensen says that this is part of the constitutional amendment process. He shares that this is a multi-step process, requiring amendments to pass two general assemblies before it is put on the ballot, making legislators take a better look at it before asking constituents to weigh in. Sorensen tells Raccoon Valley Radio that this amendment touches on taxes at the state level, moving the requirement from a simple majority to a two-thirds of both the House and Senate.

“So it doesn’t eliminate the ability to raise taxes, but it raises the threshold, so it requires broader agreement. It does not apply to local taxes like cities and counties. It doesn’t apply to sales taxes, property taxes, or other non-income taxes. This is specifically targeted at state level income taxes.”

Sorensen mentions that he views constitutional amendments as something that ultimately belongs to the people, and the legislature’s role is to vet it, debate it, and refine it, but that the final say rests with the voters. He adds that this is one of those issues that needs the full process and to not be rushed, as it is a big thing with long term implications for the state.