Greater Des Moines Partnership Advocates for 2025 Federal Policy Agenda in D.C.

The Greater Des Moines Partnership is gearing up for its annual DMDC (Des Moines Delegation to Congress) trip scheduled from May 7 to May 9, 2025. This year, the group consists of prominent business and community leaders who will travel to Washington, D.C. to promote their strategically developed Federal Policy Agenda for 2025.

Crafted by the Partnership's Government Policy Council, the agenda embodies the collective interests of its investors and affiliates and has received the nod from the Board of Directors. The agenda outlines five core priorities that aim to enhance economic growth and quality of life across the Greater Des Moines region.

Key Focus Areas

1. Tax Cuts and Jobs Act
The Partnership seeks to safeguard a favorable tax environment conducive to job creation and competitiveness. It emphasizes the necessity to address the upcoming expiration of provisions within the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.

2. Housing
Recognizing the critical need for improved housing, the Partnership advocates for expanded options through enhanced funding mechanisms and policies. This includes support for a Conversion Tax Credit that encourages investment in new and existing housing developments.

3. Child Care
Child care challenges are at the forefront of many families’ concerns; therefore, the Partnership is calling for greater investments and policy initiatives aimed at broadening child care options. Notably, it suggests ensuring the stability of the child care workforce aligned with demand while facilitating the access to 7A and 504 microloans for nonprofit child care providers.

4. Immigration
To alleviate workforce shortages, a modern and efficient immigration system is essential. The Partnership desires enhancements to the existing system, particularly through the expansion of the Conrad 30 waiver program which permits foreign physicians to practice in underserved areas.

5. U.S. 65 Designation as an Interstate
Another significant item on the agenda is supporting the designation of U.S. 65 as an interstate. This change would come with a request for federal adjustments to weight and size limits, thus bolstering transportation logistics.

In expressing his enthusiasm, Daryl Bouwkamp, the Senior Director of Industry, International Government Relations at Vermeer Corporation and the 2025 Chair of the Government Policy Council, stated, “Working alongside our dedicated Partnership Investors allows us to pursue a shared objective. We are committed to collaborating with our Congressional delegation to push forward policies that can facilitate growth in our twelve-county region.”

This year, key sponsors supporting DMDC include Principal® and Delta Dental of Iowa as Gold Sponsors, while Grinnell College, the Iowa Pork Producers Association, and several others were noted as Silver Sponsors.

About the Greater Des Moines Partnership

The Greater Des Moines Partnership serves as the economic and community development organization for twelve counties including Adair, Clarke, Dallas, Guthrie, Jasper, Madison, Mahaska, Marion, Marshall, Polk, Poweshiek, and Warren. With a network of over 400 investors and an affiliate chamber comprising more than 6,700 regional business members, the Partnership is a significant driver of economic growth and talent development. By focusing on innovation and global collaboration, it positions Greater Des Moines as an ideal location for business and career advancements.

To learn more about their federal advocacy efforts and the full 2025 Federal Policy Agenda, you can visit DSMpartnership.com.