Iowa's rural electric cooperatives advocate for safety, fairness and affordability during 2026 REC Day on the Hill

Green was the dominant color at the Iowa State Capitol on March 17, but it wasn't only for St. Patrick's Day.

Nearly 200 advocates were wearing green in support of Iowa's rural electric cooperatives during IAEC's 2026 "REC Day on the Hill" advocacy event.

"Our annual advocacy day at the state house is a powerful opportunity to meet face-to-face with our state legislators and share a local perspective on issues that impact the members and communities we serve," remarked Leslie Kaufman, IAEC executive vice president and general manager.

The advocates were in full force on the rotunda floor to discuss utility worker protections as outlined in SF 2400. Through this legislation, those who harass, threaten or assault utility workers out on the job would face stronger penalties. Lineworkers are required by law to enter dangerous situations and work in hazardous conditions and should be protected to the fullest extent of the law.

Additionally, electric co-op representatives talked with their legislators about concerns with third-party solar provisions outlined in HF 2672. Iowa's electric cooperatives support solar development when it makes sense locally, but allowing third-party programs sets a concerning precedent statewide. Additionally, third-party solar developers would not be held to the same consumer protection standards or regulatory oversight as Iowa's public utilities.

The IAEC Board of Directors met with senate and house leadership and with Attorney General Bird to discuss priorities and thank them for their support.

During the advocacy event, co-op representatives educated legislators on the benefits of the not-for-profit cooperative business model including local ownership, member governance and cost-based rates. Several electric cooperatives displayed booths in the rotunda which provided information on topics including economic development, investments in technology, electric safety, reliable power generation and student programs.

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IAEC Director of Communications