Wilhelm: State legislature took "important steps forward"

State Senator Mary Jo Wilhelm of Cresco is putting a positive spin on the just-concluded session of the Iowa Legislature.

"Investments in education and helping Iowa's working families dominated my work during this session," said Wilhelm.  "While more could and should have been done, I agreed to compromise rather than be stuck in political gridlock. My efforts did help increase funding for local schools; extend the college tuition freeze for a third year; improve Iowa's infrastructure and create jobs; and balance the state budget responsibly."

But Wilhelm also called on the Iowa House of Representatives to take up debate on several bills passed by the Iowa Senate, including an increase in the minimum wage and anti-bullying legislation that Wilhelm pointed out "is strongly supported by Governor Branstad."