Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds delivered the annual Condition of the State Address Tuesday night.

Reynolds opened with a statement addressing the tragic events at Perry High School last week.  

“Last week, the unthinkable happened in Iowa when shots were fired in the halls of Perry High School, taking the life of 11-year-old Ahmir Jolliff, and injuring seven others. Our hearts are still  heavy and our prayers continue for the victims and their families, and for the entire Perry community. It’s impossible to understand why things like this happen. The senselessness of it shakes us to our very core. Yet even in the darkest hour, light and hope break through. That was certainly the case on that day.”

Following the opening remarks, the governor went on to discuss a wide range of issues legislators will likely tackle this session. Reynolds says that one of the biggest topics she wants to address this session is the wages for teachers across the state.

“We want younger Iowans to see the teaching profession as something to aspire to. It’s one of the highest callings one can have, so let’s make sure that teacher pay sends that message. Tonight I’m asking the legislature to invest $96 million in new money to increase starting pay by 50%, to $50,000, and set a minimum salary of $62,000 for teachers with at least 12 years of experience.”

Reynolds also addressed the rest of her agenda for 2024, including tax cuts, special education, mental-health and behavioral-health services, and eliminating some boards and commissions.

Stay tuned to KNIA/KRLS to hear more from local legislators throughout the 2024 Legislative Session.