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Lawmakers set modest goals for legislative session

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January 11th, 2014 by Ric Hanson

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Iowa lawmakers are set to return Monday to the Capitol for the 2014 legislative session, but their focus may already be on the campaign trail, as many will be seeking re-election this year. The fact that it’s an election year means many lawmakers will want to approve a budget as quickly as possible so they can shift to campaigning. That sentiment seems to be shared by Gov. Terry Branstad, who is expected to soon announce a bid for a sixth term.

Branstad has announced a list of modest policy goals, which legislative leaders have generally endorsed, including expanding Internet access, supporting veterans and cracking down on school bullying. Democrats will likely push for an increase in the minimum wage, but Republicans will oppose the idea so its passage is unlikely.