State Representative Taylor Collins has released his December update, highlighting several statewide initiatives as lawmakers prepare for the upcoming legislative session.
The Iowa Department of Education is seeking committee members to help revise the Social Studies Essential Elements Standards — guidelines used for students with significant cognitive disabilities. The committee will meet between January and March of 2026, and Iowa educators, parents, and community members are encouraged to apply.
Rep. Collins also outlined Iowa’s newly submitted $1 billion Rural Health Transformation Plan, part of a federal funding opportunity under the One Big Beautiful Bill. The plan, called Healthy Hometowns, focuses on boosting rural health care through expanded Centers of Excellence, increased cancer prevention efforts including radon testing, and improved EMS access such as mobile care units and telehealth support for maternal and neonatal emergencies. Federal decisions on funding are expected by the end of 2025.
Collins further highlighted Iowa’s continued efforts to combat human trafficking. In recent years, the state has increased penalties for traffickers, expanded victim protections, and closed legal loopholes to make prosecutions easier. Updated laws now impose life sentences for trafficking minors, require stronger victim support in court, and clarify that buyers of sex or labor can be charged even if they claim they were unaware of trafficking.
The full newsletter can be found here. For questions or constituent concerns, Rep. Collins encourages residents to contact his office. Email him at taylor.collins@legis.iowa.gov or call the Capitol Switchboard and leave him a message at (515) 281-7340.