Sioux City Times

U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) introduced the Storm Recovery and Community Restoration Act today, aimed at aiding Iowa families and communities in their recovery efforts following severe storms, including recent flooding and tornadoes.

The proposed legislation seeks to provide taxpayers with greater financial flexibility during recovery by removing limitations on charitable contributions made through December of this year and eliminating tax penalties for those who need access to their savings for recovery purposes.

U.S. Reps. Ashley Hinson (R-IA), Zach Nunn (R-IA), and Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA) are original cosponsors of the bill.

“Over the last several months, our families and communities have faced catastrophic storms that devastated homes, businesses, farms, schools, and hospitals. Now is the time for Congress to act and deliver relief for Iowans,” said Rep. Feenstra. “In the meantime, our communities need assistance now, which is why I introduced legislation to suspend limits on charitable contributions so that we can help our neighbors rebuild and to remove tax penalties for anyone who needs immediate access to their savings. Despite these challenging times, Iowans are resilient, and we will recover and rebuild together.”

Rep. Nunn echoed these sentiments: “Earlier this year, our community was hit by destructive, deadly, and devastating storms. Iowans are resilient, and our community is coming together to rebuild,” he said. “Unfortunately, it’s a costly process–these storms take an emotional toll and fixing the physical damage is pricey. With this legislation, we can deliver much-needed relief for Iowans in the heart of the heartland when Mother Nature strikes.”

Rep. Hinson also emphasized the importance of financial relief: “Many Iowans’ lives have been turned upside down by recent severe weather. I am proud to work with the entire Iowa House delegation to provide vital tax relief to Iowans and help alleviate some of the financial burden during the ongoing recovery process,” she stated. “Iowans will rebuild and get through this trying time together.”

“Tornadoes and flooding have ravaged the Hawkeye State in 2024,” added Rep. Miller-Meeks. “Providing enhanced financial flexibility to Iowans impacted by these natural disasters is critical as they recover.” She continued: “Suspending limits on charitable contributions and removing tax penalties for those needing access to savings will help them rebuild their lives. I’m proud to cosponsor this bill and thank Rep. Feenstra for introducing it.”

Earlier this year, Feenstra voted for—and the U.S. House of Representatives passed—the Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act, which includes a provision allowing taxpayers to deduct unreimbursed losses from floods from their federal income taxes.

Full legislative text can be found HERE.