A bill to cut property taxes for businesses isn't dead yet but it's gasping for life as Democrats leading the Senate refuse to take up a bill approved by the House.
Property tax reform is a priority of Gov. Terry Branstad. He argues the state's commercial property tax isn't competitive and drives away business opportunities and jobs.
However, the Democratic-led Senate will not take up the Republican-crafted House version. Senate leaders say it shifts too much tax burden to homeowners and takes revenue from cities, counties, and schools.
The Senate moved its own bill through two committees Tuesday to ready it for floor debate.
Dueling bills and lack of discussion between House and Senate leaders means it's increasingly possible nothing will be done this year as lawmakers move toward adjournment.
