MORE ABOUT MIKE

Mike Gronstal, from Council Bluffs, has been the Senate Democratic Leader since 1997. First elected to office in 1982, Gronstal served one term in the Iowa House (1983-85), and is currently in his seventh term in the Senate. He is the State Democratic Leader in the Iowa Senate and has been a lifelong advocate for public education and smart politics.

OUR ADVOCATE

We are fortunate to have Mike Gronstal represent us, our students, our schools and our profession. In the current political climate it is vital that you understand that we need YOU. Your time, your talent, and--eventually--your treasure will be needed to make sure that we reverse the trend of legislators who are willing to sell out our children for corporate tax cuts.

Saving lives on Iowa roadways

Iowa traffic fatalities dropped 9.7 percent in 2009 compared to 2008, according to new data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Fewer deaths on Iowa roads is good news—and it’s a trend we want to continue.

During the 2010 session, we approved a common-sense measure that will help do just that: banning texting while driving. The law is aimed at saving lives and preventing serious injuries.

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Distracted driving can be deadly. In fact, more than 6,000 people nationally died last year in distracted driving accidents. Here in Iowa, we’ve taken steps to curb that problem by cracking down on the use of electronic devices by drivers.

All drivers are now prohibited from texting while driving. The law goes even further for young drivers: teens with school, restricted, work or graduated drivers licenses cannot use cell phones or any electronic entertainment device while driving.

The new law went into effect on July 1. During the first year, law enforcement will be offering warnings, and adults cannot be pulled over unless they’ve committed another offense. After the first year, drivers will be subject to a $100 fine. There are tougher penalties if someone is killed or seriously injured.

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