Wilhelm: I will work to pass legislation to benefit Iowa's middle class

State Senator Mary Jo Wilhelm of Cresco says her top priority during the 2013 legislative session will be to pass legislation that heps to is expand Iowa's middle class.  

Wilhelm said, "I'll be working on legislation that will help Iowa workers gain new skills, improve our local schools, reduce family health care worries, and grow small and Main Street businesses."

"There are lots of new faces at the Statehouse and I hope that means people will be willing to reach across party lines to get things done," Wilhelm said.   

Senator Wilhelm is Chair of the Local Government Committee and Vice-Chair of the Human Resources Committee. She also serves on the Commerce, Education, and Economic Growth committees, as well as the Agriculture & Natural Resources Budget Subcommittee.

Wilhelm said Iowa's budget surplus might make agreement easier.

"Unlike other states, we have some resources to invest in growing our economy and expanding opportunity for Iowa families," Wilhelm said.  "States like Iowa--states with great schools at every level, top-notch workers, and a tradition of pulling together--have the chance to shine if we keep our eye on the ball."