Rep. Jennifer Konfrst

House District 43

Last week saw several pieces of good news on the legislative front, especially with regard to an improved medical cannabis bill, the “Care Act,” the restoration of felon voting rights, and stronger legislation to protect companion animals in Iowa.

For years, Iowans facing debilitating conditions like epilepsy, cancer, multiple sclerosis, or Parkinson’s Disease waited to get access to medical cannabis. After the Legislature approved a program several years ago, it was so restrictive that many Iowans were still left without access to this critical medicine that could improve their quality of life.

After years of delays, the House finally took action last week to expand access to medical cannabis to more Iowans who are suffering from severe or chronic pain. In addition to raising the amount of cannabis patients can receive, the new bill also gives more flexibility to providers to prescribe a higher dose in cases where patients are terminally ill.

While the bill is another step forward, there are more Iowans suffering today who could benefit from expanded access to medical cannabis. Once the bill is approved by the Iowa Senate, I’m hopeful we can keep working on the issue to make health care more affordable and accessible for Iowans.

I was also proud to see lay caregiver legislation pass the Iowa House. I served on the subcommittee for this bill, and I think it’s an important step in helping lay caregivers ensure patients receive the best care possible while in the hospital and after their hospital stay. Under this legislation, known by many as the Care Act, caregivers, patients, and hospitals will work together to create a more seamless process for recovery after a patient leaves the hospital.

According to AARP of Iowa, nearly 96 percent of Iowa family caregivers say it is extremely important to receive instruction on medical tasks during hospital discharge.

As someone with two rescue pets at home, I believe strongly in ensuring Iowa’s companion animals are protected and cared for. With the passage of HF 737 out of the House, I am glad to see that penalties for the mistreatment and abuse of animals have been increased.

Currently, Iowa is one of only two states, along with Kentucky, that imposes a permanent ban on voting for anyone with a felony conviction; unless the governor restores the person’s voting rights. HJR 14, which passed the House this week, starts the process of amending the constitution to allow those convicted of a felony to have the right to vote following the discharge of their sentence. This is an important first step in the work to expand voting rights.

My next legislative office hours will be April 6 at 10 a.m. at the Clive Public Library.

STATE REP. JENNIFER KONFRST, D-Windsor Heights, represents House District 43, which includes Windsor Heights, the Polk County portion of Clive and the northern portion of West Des Moines in Polk County. She can be reached at jennifer.konfrst@legis.iowa.gov or 515-281-3221.