Blom

David Blom (R-Marshalltown) was one of three new legislators who represented Marshall County during the recently-ended session.

Wrapping up the session last week, the Iowa Legislature closed just after a 21-hour marathon. Speaking of the entire experience, Blom, who represents District 52 after defeating incumbent Democrat Sue Cahill in the 2024 election, said “rewarding” was the word he would use to sum up the entire session.

“This has truly been a fulfilling experience, from day one to the final gavel,” he said. “I came to Des Moines to make a positive difference for our community, and seeing ideas turn into real action for Marshall County has been gratifying.”

As many Iowans were disappointed with the lack of property tax relief, Blom said he will continue to work on it next year, as providing that relief is one of his priorities. However, some progress was made.

“We advanced a measure to cut property taxes specifically for childcare centers, which will help families by easing costs for providers, but the larger effort to simplify the property tax system and ensure everyone gets relief didn’t come together before adjournment,” he said.

Outside of the legislative session, Blom plans to work with local officials and legislators on a plan to lower property tax burdens while protecting the essential services.

After months of hard work, Blom felt the session was filled with progress for the people of Iowa, such as securing needed funding for schools, passing measures to support working families or supporting flood and tornado victims. He felt he focused on his campaign promises, such as supporting veterans, teachers, parents and students and lowering taxes on working families.

Blom voted in favor of significantly increasing public school funding, and fought to raise paraeducator pay.

“Our classroom aides and support staff deserve a livable wage for the important work they do with students,” Blom said. “Keeping this promise means better resources in our classrooms and more support for our educators, students, and parents.”

As a member of the House Veterans Affairs Committee, Blom said he takes the pledge to support veterans very seriously. He supported legislation to fully fund the Iowa Veterans Trust Fund and ensure the Iowa Veterans Home has the necessary resources to care for veterans. Blom also backed bills to ease the transition to civilian life for servicemembers, such as improving veterans’ access to job training and mental health services.

Blom ran on easing the tax burdens, and felt that was delivered upon. The legislators moved forward with cutting the sales tax on everyday necessities to help household budgets go a little further.

“These are concrete steps that put a little more money back in the pockets of Marshall County families,” he said.

Some surprises Blom received included learning how fast and complex the process is and how much behind-the-scenes cooperation is necessary to move a bill forward. It takes legislators from both sides of the aisle to roll up their sleeves, build relationships and work together, during and outside of formal debate, he said. As an example, Blom saw Republicans and Democrats work on a volunteer firefighter bill.

“I came to appreciate that good legislation really depends on listening, finding common ground, and cooperating with colleagues you might not always agree with,” he said.

Working on behalf of first responders is what Blom is proudest of, championing House File 1002, the new Length of Service Aware Program volunteer fighters, EMTs and reserve police officers. The bill, which passed with unanimous support, provides a small reward for responders based on years of service. First responders keep citizens safe, especially in rural areas, and Blom said there is an ongoing struggle in recruiting and retaining members.

“This was a bill I was deeply invested in because it tackles a critical need in our community,” he said. “. . . Knowing that this will help our fire departments and ambulance services attract volunteers and keep experienced hands on board is incredibly satisfying. These brave men and women are there for us in our times of need, and now we’ve delivered something for them.”

Outside the Capitol

Blom looks forward to life returning to normal by working, catching up on a few chores around the house and continuing to speak with and meeting with the people of Marshall County.

With the legislative year over, Blom will use lessons learned and apply them to normal outside life. One lesson was on communication. He said if people approach disagreements with respect and a desire to understand, common ground can be found and great things achieved.

“Whether it’s collaborating with coworkers or helping a neighbor, taking the time to truly listen and work together toward a shared goal is something I’ll practice every day,” Blom said. “It’s simple, but this session proved how powerful it can be both in public service and in everyday life.”

Since serving in the Iowa House is only a two-year term, Blom foresees he will run again when his term is up.

“If the voters will have me, I’d be honored to keep doing this work on their behalf,” he said.

Running and serving with the intention of providing a voice for Marshalltown and Marshall County, Blom wanted constituents to know their concerns were and are heard.

“Positive, bipartisan solutions are still possible,” he said. “We proved it this session by working together on measures that help ordinary Iowans. Also, remember that I’m accessible to you. I want everyone to feel comfortable reaching out to me with ideas or issues – because that input is what guides my work.”

Blom wanted to close by expressing his heartfelt gratitude in serving as a state representative. He said because of the support and input from constituents, he felt his first session was a success. Blom is proud of what was achieved and optimistic about the future. Thank you for being engaged and for holding me accountable to our shared values.

“My focus will remain on solutions, not politics, and on working with anyone willing to help make our community stronger,” he said. “I also want to thank my fellow legislators, on both sides of the aisle, who welcomed a newcomer like me and worked with me in good faith. That spirit of cooperation is alive and well, and it’s how we get things done for Iowa.”

Contact Lana Bradstream at 641-753-6611 ext. 210 or lbradstream@timesrepublican.com.