IPA Legislative Day

from IPA Journal Apr/May/Jun 2022

by Iowa Pharmacy Association

Practice Advancement

IPA LEGISLATIVE DAY 2022

IPA Legislative Day took place in person in Des Moines on March 7, 2022. Over 150 pharmacists, pharmacy technicians and student pharmacists were in attendance to learn about IPA’s legislative priorities and other healthcare issues. The day began with breakfast and welcoming remarks from IPA CEO Kate Gainer and Board President Chris Clayton. Following introductions, IPA’s advocacy team, including Brett Barker, Vice President of Government Affairs, and contract lobbyists Matt Eide and Kate Walton, provided a briefing on IPA’s PBM bill and other 2022 legislation to discuss with legislators.

Iowa’s 47th Lieutenant Governor, Adam Gregg, gave this year’s keynote, applauding pharmacy’s efforts throughout the

COVID-19 pandemic and sharing his support of rural healthcare access. Hawarden natives and family friends, the Lt.

Governor and Porter Hummel, student pharmacist at the University of Iowa College of Pharmacy, snapped a picture together following the presentation!

Following the keynote, 2022 IPA Legislative Awards were presented. Greg Johansen, RPh, FACA, President of

GRX Holdings, gave his remarks virtually for the Legislative Champion Award, recognizing an IPA member who has made significant contributions to the association’s advocacy efforts. Representative Brian Best (District 12) was presented with the Good Governance Award for his close work with IPA and support of the

PBM bill. Representative Best gave live remarks before joining the legislator panel for the next session.

Pharmacist Representative John Forbes and Representative Best joined IPA’s Brett Barker on stage to describe what’s happening at the Capitol in relation to healthcare and pharmacy issues. Representatives Forbes and Best gave advice on communicating with legislators and continuing strong grassroots advocacy.

After lunch, attendees traveled by bus to the Iowa State Capitol to meet with their state senators and state representatives. Many attendees were able to enter the chambers and listen in on debate, and some even got a private tour to the top! (Thanks, Representative Forbes!) The day concluded with a reception at the downtown Des Moines Hilton, where attendees enjoyed refreshments, networking, and further connecting with Iowa legislators.